Physicalization from Theory to Practice: Exploring Contemporary Challenges for Physicalization Design

This workshop aims to delve into the evolving challenges of physicalization, drawing on prior research and workshops to explore overarching grand challenges in the field. Initially formalized within Human-Computer Interaction in 2015, `physicalization' involves encoding data into tangible forms. Despite significant progress in addressing initial challenges, new complexities emerge from the dynamic interplay of technology and human interaction. Building on insights from a prior CHI 2023 workshop, which focused on exemplar domain applications, our workshop aims to facilitate in-depth discussions on overarching grand challenges. Specifically, we focus on four key challenges: privacy, temporality, collaborative sensemaking, and sustainability of physicalization design. These focal points acknowledge the susceptibility of physicalizations to privacy concerns, collaborative interpretation, temporal usage, and sustainability considerations. Through interactive and collaborative activities, the workshop seeks to advance understanding and strategies for addressing these emerging challenges in the realm of physicalization, ultimately contributing to the advancement of the field.