SOS Emergency Jewellery

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Research Background: SOS Jewellery was selected for the exhibition 'A Fine Possession: Jewellery and Identity' at the Powerhouse Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences in Sydney. SOS Jewellery addresses the need for well-designed smart jewellery for in times of medical emergency. The jewellery contains personal medical information, and could be used as a diagnostic device. It is a collaboration between Leah Heiss, Paul Beckett and Keely Macarow (the Chief Investigator for the ARC Linkage project 'Designing Sound for Health and Wealthbeing') with industry partner St Vincent's Hospital. RESEARCH CONTRIBUTION: This project is part of the researchers ongoing investigation into medicalised augmented jewellery which has culminated in many wearable applications for the delivery of medical drugs, including Heiss' diabetes jewellery and arsenic removal neckpieces. Three iterations of the SOS Emergency Jewellery are in process: a micro-projection bracelet; a bracelet device which investigates "Emergent" behaviour arising from the act of embedding micro-technology capability into jewellery; and a "Smart Heart" necklace with the capacity to collect, store and remotely transmit cardiac data collected over an extended period for analysis by medical professionals. RESEARCH SIGNIFICANCE: The significance of the project is evidenced by its exhibition at the prestigious Powerhouse Museum, curated by Eva Czernis-Ryl, the curator for Decorative Arts and Design at the Museum. The project received extensive media review in the Sydney Morning Herald, Daily Review, and AgedCareGuide.com.au., and was exhibited alongside items from the Museum's permanent collection that have rarely or never been seen and items on loan from the National Gallery of Australia, the Art Galleries of NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia including the Queen's Australian 'Wattle brooch (1954), Alexander Rodchenko's 1923 Constructivist brooch and Bin Dixon Ward's 3d printed ring (2013).