Data Walking

by David Hunter

Data Walking is a research project by David Hunter, with the aim of gathering environmental data while walking around a specific area and building a rich picture of that area through multiple walks over time, a layered multi-dimensional 'dataspace'. In this process, we get to explore the potential of data gathering while walking, and then experiment with visualizing that data in a variety of ways.

This report summarizes much of the learning and processes of the Data Walking project. It explores data gathering with analog methods as well as technologies like micro-controllers and smartphones, introduces creative coding for data gathering and visualizing, and experiments with methods of display and fabrication. This publication aims to bring the creative processes of data gathering and designing with data closer together in one coherent workflow.

Contained are notable contributions from renowned designers and studios, educators, and students, demonstrating a wide range of approaches, methods, and mediums in creating their outcomes.

95 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2018

About the author

David Hunter was born in Scotland and his life has gone steadily south from that point.

Handicapped by education in England (albeit at a decent comprehensive and Russell Group university), his historic career low-points include hole-digger, stone-trundler, sales monkey, can-carrier and school teacher. Much of his adult life has been spent shivering uncontrollably through cold and fear in situations of excruciating discomfort so now he likes pottering about in sunshine. Currently responsible for the misdelivery of a substantial quantity of the nation's post, his delusions of adequacy now extend to imagining himself a writer.

His stories will appeal to those folk who hanker after some old-fashioned (but subversive), fast-paced sword and sorcery, but who think the likes of R.E. Howard and G.R.R. Martin are maybe a bit too lily-livered.