Maya Kaneko
Interaction Design
Abstract
Maya Kaneko is interested in how design as a practice can be more deeply interwoven in conversations about human rights, specifically for marginalized populations. Throughout her thesis project she investigated the experience of menopause, how to break cultural silences and open discussions around ‘taboo.’ With the use of qualitative research methods, such as diary studies, interviews, questionnaires and participatory design workshops, she was able to alleviate feelings of shame and create moments of reflection, joy and community. Her work is synthesized in a newsprint magazine, summarizing not only the findings of this research but ideas of what the future menopausal experience could be, if more creative energy and funding was allocated toward this topic. Maya’s design approach is rooted in her training in Anthropology, shaping the way she sees not only the material world but also the systems and structures upholding injustice. She often reminds herself that everything is designed, which offers both an avenue for analysis and a call to action.
Magazines as well as papers that are titled with "Menopause is" with personal responses handwritten in sharpie. There are bright pink and yellowpapers that also read "Support Menopause Research".
Maya Kaneko, Flourishing, 2024. Design installation. Photo: Rosaline Dou.
Closeup of papers that read "Menopause is" with handwritten user responses. The closest one reads "No longer baby".
Maya Kaneko, Flourishing, 2024. Design installation. Photo: Rosaline Dou.
Bright pink magazines laid out for sale on a table. On the cover, large black text that says "TELL ME ABOUT IT!" can be read.
Maya Kaneko, Flourishing, 2024. Design installation. Photo: Rosaline Dou.
Hands holding a handmade zine. Other colorful handmade zines can be seen in the background. One of them reads "menopause knowledge is power".
Maya Kaneko, Menopause Workshop Mini Zines, 2024. Photo: Wyatt Olson.
Various colorful sticky notes with various ideas and questions written out
Maya Kaneko, Menopause Workshop Outcomes and Ideas, 2024. Photo: Wyatt Olson.
The back of a woman taking a picture with a cellphone of an arrangement of cards pinned to the wall.
Maya Kaneko, Menopause Workshop Attendee, 2024. Photo: Wyatt Olson.
Committee
Kristine Matthews, Chair
Karen Cheng
Education
University of Washington, Master of Design:
Interaction Design, 2024

Santa Clara University, Bachelor of Science:
Anthropology & Political Science, 2019
Contact
LinkedInEmail
Awards + Accomplishments
2023, Gonzales Graduate Student Scholarship for Excellence in Design, University of Washington
2022, Top Scholar Design Graduate Recruit Award, University of Washington
Previous
Next