Objects of Protection
Sanitiser as Talisman: Reframing a Humble Commodity
Last week marked the culmination of a seven-week Semiotics course, described by one participant as an "intellectual rollercoaster." The experience was rigorous, inspiring, and challenging—a deep dive into how cultural codes shape our understanding of the world. Our international cohort, convening thanks to the wonders of Zoom, brought diverse perspectives that enriched every session.
For the final presentation, our group focused on hand sanitiser as a product category. What intrigued me most in our research was its connection to the anthropology of protective objects—talismans, pomanders, and placebos—that humans have carried for centuries. These objects were imbued with perceived protective or healing properties and often crafted as objects of rare beauty, resonating deeply with the human need for reassurance, ritual, and meaning.
The hand sanitiser, as we know it today, is a utilitarian and commodified object, often overlooked despite its ubiquity. Yet, through the lens of semiotics, we explored how it could transcend this role, drawing inspiration from the historical precedent of wearable, cherished items. Imagine a sanitiser reimagined not as a sterile bottle but as a thoughtfully designed object—something wearable, personal, and beautiful.
This shift could redefine its relationship with the user, transforming a low-engagement product into one imbued with intention and care. By elevating its design and embedding it with meaning, the sanitiser could become more than a practical necessity—it could be a modern talisman, reflective of our era and the rituals we perform to navigate it.
The journey from commodification to considered design is, at its core, a human story. It is about rethinking how we interact with everyday objects and finding opportunities to infuse them with value, symbolism, and joy. Hand sanitiser, humble as it may seem, holds the potential to remind us of the power of design to connect, comfort, and protect.
