Elvia Vasconcelos is a design researcher, wannabe activist, compulsive drawer and dressmaker. She enjoys torturing toasters and other domestic objects.
A couple of years ago, EV tried to become besties with an Alexa and failed.
Her work explores the human impact of technology and the role practitioners play in exposing and challenging the power structures (and the systemic oppression) embodied in them. More specifically her recent work has been focusing on how power is distributed via technology: how the structures of oppression that exist in real life are being mirrored, reinforced and amplified by the digital structures we create. This ongoing research has manifested in workshops in public and cultural settings as well as conferences (Helsinki, Barcelona, London). The aim is to create spaces for the critical participation for those generally excluded from the processes of decision making in the tech industry and by doing so in shaping more equitable collective futures.
Currently EV is also a visiting practitioner at the London College of Communication (UAL) as well as a researcher with the UK Government. EV holds an MA in Digital Arts from the University of the Arts London.
Instagram @sketchnotes_are_awesome
Twitter @ElviaVasc