Rethinking User Interface and Experience Design: Heuristic Insights from Makeup and Stage Performance
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Abstract
This paper introduces Layers and Acts, a heuristic framework that leverages principles from makeup artistry and theatrical stagecraft to guide user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. We articulate twelve design heuristics four rooted in makeup techniques (foundation grids, contour depth, accent highlights, micro-interaction flourishes) and eight derived from performance practices (blocking, lighting, pacing, and thematic elements). These heuristics emerge from qualitative scenario-mapping workshops with UI/UX and theatre professionals. We demonstrate application via two social-networking examples feed composition and story interaction highlighting how each heuristic enhances visual clarity, emotional engagement, and interaction flow. Accompanying deliverables include a Heuristic Manifesto and a repository of narrative artifacts. Finally, we discuss implications for theory and practice, and propose directions for future empirical work.
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References
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