Perfect Sense: futuristic masks Recalibrate Senses Through Design
Perfect Sense is a series of six object-masks by designer Iga Węglińska that examines the concept of sensory substitution. The project investigates how the brain compensates when access to one sense is reduced, intensifying other sensory modalities and altering perceptual hierarchies.
The work references the phenomena of semantic coupling and iconic coupling. Semantic coupling describes situations in which changes in one sensory perception influence the interpretation of stimuli from another sense. Iconic coupling refers to cross-sensory associations, where stimulation in one modality evokes responses in another. The project’s title draws from the film Perfect Sense (2011), directed by David Mackenzie, in which a global epidemic progressively eliminates human senses, prompting adaptive responses through heightened alternative sensory input; for example, the lack of taste is compensated by foods that produce sounds.
all images by Mila Łapko unless stated otherwise
Iga Weglinska reengineers the face through VR and 3D Printing
Formally, the masks are inspired by 17th-century Venetian Moretta masks. Historically, these masks were held in place by biting a concealed button, preventing speech and requiring non-verbal communication. This historical reference informs the project’s investigation into restriction, adaptation, and altered modes of interaction. Designer Iga Węglińska developed the masks using reverse-engineering techniques. Designs were modeled directly in virtual reality onto a three-dimensional head model. The resulting forms were fabricated through 3D printing, producing both the internal structural components and the molds used for casting.
Each mask is composed of embedded structural ‘bones’ encased in silicone artificial skin. The silicone is tinted in human skin tones and incorporates microplastic fibers that reference vascular networks beneath the skin. The material system establishes a relationship between biological structure and synthetic fabrication, positioning the object between prosthetic device and wearable artifact. Perfect Sense proposes a speculative exploration of facial transformation. Through digitally generated forms and hybrid material construction, the project considers wearable objects as potential sensory prostheses. It situates design within broader discussions of transhumanism, examining how technological extensions of the body may alter perception and redefine the boundaries of human experience.
Perfect Sense is a series of six object-masks by designer Iga Węglińska
each mask investigates how one diminished sense amplifies another
cross-sensory perception informs the conceptual framework of the series
internal structural ‘bones’ define the masks’ anatomical framework
silicone artificial skin encases the embedded structures
each object functions between wearable artifact and prosthetic device
designs were modeled in virtual reality on a 3D head form | image courtesy of Iga Weglinska
project info:
name: Perfect Sense
designer: Iga Węglińska | @igaweglinska
make-up artist: Anna Treder
hair: Maciej Rybak
model: Rena Miyamoto
photographer: Mila Łapko | @milalapko_
designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.
edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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