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is a platform for parametric design in graphic design. It documents the work of students and teachers at the Department of Design at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences (HAW), who are investigating the significance of the system as a conceptual model and design method under the title “Parametric Design in Graphic Design.”

Design is less about intuitive, even ingenious “strokes of genius” and more about a holistic and rule-based (systemic and systematic) process of gaining knowledge and shaping form. It is becoming increasingly important to be able to design dynamic systems that both guide and inspire the design process.

Parametric design refers to this design in and of systems—with rules, their modes of operation, and systematic manipulability. The research project, led by Prof. Heike Grebin, is an integral part of teaching and aims to raise awareness of design as a performative process.

Play the System brings together selected study projects in which the system plays an important role as a design method – whether analog or digital. The works are created in a fruitful symbiosis of theory, design, and technology. Socially relevant issues and positions from philosophy, art, and avant-garde design from around 1900 to the present day are repeatedly discussed.

Play the System is an invitation to become aware of the systemic competence of graphic design and to gain the maturity to use the tools of digital design critically.

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p384 Toxic Masculinity

In his work, Niklas Wolf aims to draw attention to Toxic masculinity and expand knowledge about traditional gender roles. Typical criteria for Toxic masculinity include, for example, that men must always show toughness, suppress their emotions, and believe that conflicts can only be resolved through violence. Dominance, refusal to cooperate, and the sexualization and oppression of women are also part of this. This self-image neither corresponds to our current need for respectful interaction with one another nor does it fit into our enlightened society today. Such behavior patterns have been socially accepted for centuries and passed down through generations, so that most men do not even notice how harmful their behavior can be. It is important to question and overcome this supposed normality. His goal is to sensitize us to this issue and to work toward overcoming gender archetypes in society as a whole. People should not feel discriminated against if they do not conform to outdated stereotypes; their behavior should shape our manners.