How do artists entice viewers to become more emotionally invested in artwork? Brian Fleetwood explores this question. He is interested in the emotional investment audience members can develop through what is referred to as the “IKEA effect.” This effect describes the increased attachment people feel to objects that they have a hand in completing. Learn how Fleetwood uses this tactic in Symbiosis Project through jewelry pieces, distributed as “kits,” which the recipient must not only assemble, but also make specific design decisions for the final piece.


This event is held in conjunction with the exhibition Scale Up: 10 Years, 10 Fellows, 10 Projects, on view January 19–July 28, 2018 at the Center for Craft.