To Binary or not to Binary?
To Binary or not to Binary is a gender world as a result of our research (collaboration with Juliette Douet) into the gender binary system and other alternative systems of gender identity. Here, the different social implications on our perceptions of gender were explored, including themes relating to the government, institutions and personal relations. Additionally, suggestions for improvement of the current gender-identity system were explored, including altering teaching methods and creating inclusive environments. Different perspectives were considered through an open survey that was conducted in order to gather individual experiences and beliefs. This informed the creation of a personality quiz that attempts to sort individuals based on their views of gender identity, attributing them one of the seven animals seen in this game;

As a blue lion/ess, you are strong, direct and opinionated. You see gender identity as a binary system, including only
male and female. You believe it is based on biology, thus there is distinct stereotypical behaviour associated with the genders. This informs how individuals are expected to behave and present themselves in society, based on traditional norms that are a result of the genders’ character.

As a two-headed pigeon, you are not very opinionated. You do not have a conclusive view of gender identity, and could thus end up with varying views on different aspects of the topic. You could easily get along or disagree with others’ opinions.

As a nudibranch, you are unique and strongly value equality. You do not differentiate between genders, such that gender identity is not based on one’s biological sex but on each person’s character. Therefore, there are no stereotypes or norms associated with gender, everyone expresses themselves freely.

As a pigeon-lion, you are not strongly opinionated. Although you see gender identity mostly as a binary system, including only male and females, you likely haven’t reached a fixed conclusion of your thoughts on the topic. You believe it is based on biology with distinct stereotypical behaviour associated with the genders. However, you are still open to discuss and change your opinion in different moments.

As a unicorn, you are outgoing, energetic and unique. You see gender identity as a spectrum, such that only you can define where you feel comfortable in defining yourself. You believe gender identity can be based on both biology and one’s surroundings or upbringing, thus there are no stereotypical traits associated with the multiple gender possibilities and combinations.

As a sloth, you are relaxed and considerate of others’ needs and opinions. You see gender identity as something that is subjective to each person. Each individual should have the freedom to believe in their own gender identity system, whatever helps them develop and strengthen their sense of self. So long as everyone is happy, you are happy.

As a slothicorn, you are unique and considerate of others’ needs and opinions. You see gender identity as something that is subjective to each person. Each individual should have the freedom to identify themselves somewhere along the gender spectrum. You believe that gender can be expressed by stereotypical and non-stereotypical traits as long as that individual is comfortable within their expression.
The gender world concept was chosen to reflect the unavoidable categorization of individuals in society, and its inevitable influence on our opinions. This notion is represented in the world through identical animals that remain in their own groups, separated in different areas.
Visualisation

We wanted to create a zoo-like world, where the animal are behind fences. Which represent society's view on labeling people into certain categories. But we realized that people would have a connotation with a zoo that doesn't fit our concept. So we decided to create a new mythical world (see below).


