Machiko Niimi
Lecturer, Product Design & Creative Studies. Teaching and Research Assistant, Communication
My current research is investigating in the area of design for sustainable behaviour. Despite the knowledge and attitude towards sustainability issues, behaviours in our daily lives often do not reflect our intentions. My current research explores the areas of design strategies for bridging the gap between our attitude and behavior.
I studied design at the University of Otago also joined the 3rd year of Otago Polytechnic Product Design Programme to study product design from a different perspective. My Diploma for Graduate in Psychology has also been valuable in informing my design practice. Prior to teaching I was a co-director of Ooid Design where I produced Sprout reusable cloth bags and graphic design for clients. I also design and hand makes a range of jewellery for design stores and galleries. Sustainability and product design has been a recurring theme of my design career.
Currently I am a Masters of Design candidate at the University of Otago.