Michael Candy, Sunfish
Michael Candy, Sunfish
Vikram Kalidindi
Vikram Kalidindi
Zhuo Chen
Zhuo Chen
4D Design Philosophy

Michael Candy (MFA 4D Design 2023)

4D Design Philosophy

4D Design Philosophy

A distributed network of activists, artists, authors, designers, engineers using technology to solve complex problems and discover innovative new forms through coding, tinkering, and obsessive making

The impact of technology on the field of design is profound. Established in 2019, the Academy’s newest department builds on legacy of innovation by expanding the skillsets of designers to include Experience Design (XD, UX), Interaction Design (IxD)projection mapping, embedded electronics, applied robotics, 3D printing, visual interfaces, and virtual/mixed reality environments. These emerging processes are situated alongside more traditional modes of making, and we believe in a democratic approach to understanding and accessing technology.

4D Design at Cranbrook explores the many ways the physical world around us is infused with an undercurrent of flowing data that turns everyday experiences into connected, feedback-driven interactions that transform culture and society. 4D Design students weave technology into their work through thoughtful, responsible, and compassionate design, while actively shaping the world.

4D Design

4D students build upon the following areas of exploration:

  • 1. Dynamic product behaviors
  • 2. Machine learning
  • 3. Expressive coding
  • 4. Systems visualization
  • 5. Embedded electronics and applied robotics
  • 6. Connected devices and product ecosystems
  • 7. Augmented, virtual and mixed reality
  • 8. Voice control and conversational interfaces
  • 9. 3D printing and material creation
  • 10. Biometrics, prosthetics, and augmentation
  • 11. Telepresence and avatars

Carla Diana

The Cranbrook Experience in 4D Design

Carla Diana

The Cranbrook Experience in 4D Design

Student Work

Student Work
EMILY BOMMARITO (MFA 4D DESIGN 2022)
Student Work
Michael Candy (MFA 4D Design 2023)
Student Work
Zhuo Chen (MFA 4D Design 2021)
Student Work
VIKRAM KALIDINDI (MFA 4D DESIGN 2021)
Student Work
VIKRAM KALIDINDI (MFA 4D DESIGN 2021)
Student Work
JAE SONG (MFA 4D DESIGN 2023)
Student Work
JAE SONG (MFA 4D DESIGN 2023)
Student Work
JAE SONG (MFA 4D DESIGN 2023)
Student Work
Merel Noorlander (MFA 4D Design 2022)
APPLY NOW

We are designers, activists, artists, authors and entrepreneurs.