Final Project: Clay Cups As a Visual Representation of the Wage Gap

In this instructable, I will guide you through the process of creating clay cups that serve as a unique data visualization project, representing the wage gap between different genders and ethnicities. By using a potterbot and employing different surface textures, I aimed to visually depict the disparity in earnings, shedding light on an important societal issue.

• Computer with Grasshopper installed
• 3D printer (Potter Bot)
• Clay suitable for 3D printing
• Clay extruder
• Clay cutting tool
• Water for clay conditioning
• Kiln

When conducting my project on the wage gap, I chose to use data from 2019 due to the impact of COVID-19 on data collection measures in subsequent years. It is important to acknowledge the nuances of this data and understand the significance of capturing and interpreting it effectively. Here's an overview of the data sources I relied upon and the specific information I used:

1. U.S. Census Bureau: I accessed data from the U.S. Census Bureau, which is an authoritative source known for its comprehensive data collection and large sample sizes. While it provides reliable overall statistics, it might not capture all the detailed factors influencing the wage gap. Additionally, there might be a time lag in obtaining the most recent data.
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS was another reliable source I utilized. It offers detailed breakdowns of wage gap information by occupation and demographics. While it provides valuable insights, it might not encompass all aspects of the wage gap, as its reports often cover broader labor market trends.
3. Pew Research Center: To gain in-depth research and analysis on the wage gap, I referred to the Pew Research Center. This source is known for its comparative studies among different demographic groups. However, it is important to consider specific methodologies and potential biases associated with its research.
4. Other Sources: In addition to the aforementioned sources, I also drew information from reputable organizations such as the National Women's Law Center (NWLC), Catalyst, and the World Economic Forum (WEF). These sources offer valuable perspectives on the wage gap and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.

Based on this data, the following key wage gap statistics were utilized in my project:

• Overall Gender Pay Gap (Women vs. Men):
• In 2019, median earnings for full-time, year-round working women in the US were approximately 82% of men's earnings. This statistic reflects the disparity between the average earnings of women compared to men across various industries and occupations.
• Wage Gap for Women of Color:
• For African American women, their earnings in 2019 were approximately 62-66% of what White, non-Hispanic men earned.
• Hispanic/Latina women earned about 54-59% of what White, non-Hispanic men earned.
• These statistics highlight the additional challenges faced by women of color, with even larger earnings disparities compared to white men.

By using this information and understanding the nuances of the wage gap data from 2019, I aimed to shed light on the persisting disparities in earnings and emphasize the need for continued efforts towards gender and racial equality in the workforce.

To create the cups with precise surface textures, I utilized Rhino, a 3D modeling software, and the Grasshopper plug-in. This allowed me to automate the process and make modifications easily.

Using Grasshopper, I designed the cup template, ensuring it had a height of 5cm and a radius of 3cm. I maintained a consistent cup shape for all variations to establish a clear visual connection between the cups representing different wage gaps.

In Grasshopper, I imported the relevant data on the wage gap. I used an array that contained true, false, or 0 values to represent different surface textures. By modifying this array, I could control the percentage of texture to be added to the cups.

In Grasshopper, I utilized a Python component to modify the imported array. I altered the code to assign a certain percentage of 0 values based on the specific wage gap I wanted to represent. For instance, since women were estimated to earn 82% of what White, non-Hispanic men earned (U.S. Census Bureau), I would assign 82% of the array as 0.

Within Grasshopper, I connected the modified array to control the generation of surface texture on the cup template. As the potterbot laid down each layer of clay, the corresponding texture would be applied based on the values in the array.

The photos depict cups at a wage gap of 0%, 18%, and 45%.

Once the cup design and texture were finalized in Rhino and Grasshopper, I exported the file to the potterbot. The software guided the potterbot's movements, instructing it to deposit clay layer by layer, according to the defined cup design and surface texture.

Throughout the process, I experimented with different parameters, such as layer thickness and texture density, to achieve the desired visual representation of the wage gap. By iteratively adjusting these parameters, I fine-tuned the cups' appearance and message.

After removing the cups from the potterbot, I allowed them to dry. Once dry, I had assistance in placing them in a kiln, following the recommended firing temperature and duration for the specific clay used. Firing the cups ensured their longevity and stability.

By incorporating Rhino and Grasshopper into the creation process, I was able to generate clay cups with precise surface textures that represented different wage gaps. The combination of technology, data visualization, and pottery allowed me to convey a powerful message about income disparities.

Looking ahead, I have several ideas to enhance this project and its impact:

1. Explore Nuances: Delve deeper into the wage gap data, considering factors like industry and geography, to create cups that capture a more comprehensive picture of disparities.
2. Expand Representations: Incorporate earnings disparities for diverse demographics, including different racial and ethnic backgrounds, and non-binary or transgender individuals, to foster inclusivity in the dialogue.
3. Connect Data and Form: Experiment with modifying cup shape and design to visually emphasize specific aspects of the wage gap, creating a stronger connection between the dataset and the cups' form.
4. Vary Surface Textures: Explore different surface textures, patterns, and clay manipulations to enhance the visual representation of earnings disparities and the complexity of the wage gap.
5. Gain More Clay Practice: Continue refining clay techniques to ensure greater precision and consistency in cup production, allowing for more refined and impactful data visualizations.
6. Clay as a Medium: Appreciate the unique qualities of clay as a tangible medium for representing abstract data, fostering a tactile and emotional connection with viewers.

By incorporating these elements into future iterations, I aim to create even more impactful and thought-provoking clay cup data visualizations.