fieldtrip

1. The theme of the exhibition was “Action/Reaction,” expressing a variety of artists’ responses on current events. Underneath the large umbrella of “Action/Reaction” was the theme of sustainability, also conveyed throughout each of the works. The idea that design could be used to ‘change the world’ was shown through five main categories: graphic, fashion, consumer products, architecture and transportation. I thought the theme was very relevant, especially in this age where the campaign for environmentalism and social justice are so prominent.

2. Yes, the theme is very obvious throughout all the projects; all the works expressed some form of socioeconomic or environmental relief. An example of this is the vinyl billboard-bag project by Artecnica. Using used vinyl off billboards, Artecnica developed stretch bags that were both sustainable (made of old material), durable and fashionable.

3. The “Tahiti Housing Complex” by Daly Genik Architects definitely stood out as one of the most interesting pieces for me. The contemporary design and colours used for the project were very unconventional, especially for a low-income-housing project such as this. This project was not only eye-catching (due to its modern aesthetics), it also sustainable and economical for its patrons- the design allowed for the complex to be highly-ventilated (no need for air-conditioning in the summer), while also maximizing daylight to lower energy bills.

4. I found the felt-covered chairs by Tanya Aguiniga one of the most interesting pieces in the exhibition. Aguiniga tried to bring ‘warmth’ back into industrial design, usually seen as a very cold industry, by covering simple-folding chairs in woolly felt in different colours, such as subdued green, yellow and magenta.

5. I found the laundry detergent by Method the least compelling. Though the package design of the product was clean and attractive, the idea of eco-friendly bottles and ‘more for less’ pumps was not original compared to the other projects in the exhibition.

6. Overall, I found that almost every piece in the exhibition had something interesting to offer- not only aesthetically, but for the good of the future.