Designing for Strong Feelings w. Brad MacDonald, Exploratorium

​From a good book or a mind-blowing meal to a solid series on Netflix, who doesn’t like to be immersed? And why is everyone throwing around the word ‘immersion’ like it's a new thing?

​For me, the goal is to transform spaces, unlock dialogue, and bridge the digital and analog worlds. As a game designer, an experiential designer who loves working spatially, an educator, and an entertainer my goal is to use any and all tools to create environments that encourage feelings, strong feelings, that lead to action, surprise and discovery.

​The case for digitally enhanced experiences (digital immersion) runs across many scenarios and goals from entertainment to education, theme parks to museums.

​Let’s talk about principles and mechanics for design then I’ll share a little about past projects and how I’ll be building upon that practice to develop digitally enabled spaces.

​About Brad
Brad MacDonald is an interaction designer, game designer, artist, musician and storyteller using technology and his expertise in user experience to craft immersive narratives for museums, cultural institutions and corporate partners. He’s particularly interested in the creative process, using technology to craft deep, human-centric interactions, and the emotions that drive experiences regardless of platform.

​Recent projects include the FUTURES exhibition at the Smithsonian Arts+Industries Building, Cellphone at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and acting as the Project Director for Digital Experiences at the Exploratorium in San Francisco.He has taught at Parsons School of Design in the Design and Technology program, in NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering, Pace University and at the China Academy of Arts in Hangzhou, China.

​In the 14 years he was with Large Animal Games he was the Lead Artist or Art Director for over 100 mobile, online, social and PC downloadable games. At some point in his career he has been involved in the design of everything from talking toilet seats to internationally touring theatrical productions.

​​​About Futurespaces
Futurespaces delves into contemporary experience design, with a specific focus on how innovations in design and technology can meaningfully enhance human connection.

​​​​​​​​​​​​Founded and led by Josh Goldblum (Bluecadet) Futurespaces offers live webinars and in-person tours that provide valuable insights into the creative process of creating contemporary experiences.

​​​​​​​​​​​​more at: https://futurespaces.com/