Nirmana Estetika Raba : Visual Design Creativity Based on Sensory Capabilities of the Sense of Touch

Abstract

The hegemony of visual and digital culture in the modern era has had a significant influence on the sense of wholeness among the younger generation. Analog sensitivity has been replaced by mere digital bit sensations that ignore sensitivity and real experiences of totality of the body. Nirmana is a basic course in the Visual Communication Design Department at Binus University that hones students' aesthetic sensitivity. This study examines a project assignment called “Nirmana Estetika Raba”. This project is a form of creativity that tests students' sensory abilities in relation to tactile and thermal sensations of the body. This study is interesting because it is a study of Nirmana works based on total bodily experience. The research uses Saussure's structural approach and Primadi Tabrani's theory and Wucius Wong's theory. Thus, it will be possible to identify the relationship between visual elements in forming a creative whole that refers to the stimulus link module. The expected target of this research is to produce a new Nirmana learning model that is able to optimally hone students' sensitivity through a totality of bodily experiences. To that end, a literature study will be conducted to examine the formal objects of this research, namely the fundamental elements and principles of design. Furthermore, an analysis of the material objects resulting from the ideation and visualization process of Nirmana class students throughout one semester will be carried out. With this research, it is hoped that basic design studies will be increasingly able to play a role in placing the process of honing sensitivity as a learning activity that shapes students' creativity and aesthetic sensibility.

Keywords: Nirmana, design, creativity, sense of wholeness, bodily experience

DOI: 10.7176/ADS/115-07

Publication date: November 30th 2025