This week we visited several spots that had clear connections to each other. The first was Artemide, an Italian lighting design company and manufacturer. The initial presentation was so put together and overwhelmingly fascinating. The concept of “Li-Fi” (data transmitted through light photons) was completely illuminating, no pun intended. Reading design blogs and online news sources I feel like I am exposed to new and futuristic concepts pretty regularly but this I had never heard of and had a hard time wrapping my mind around. By the end of the presentation, Artemide made it clear that research was their game.
Heading over to Kartell, a giant global plastic design manufacturing company, they also recognized the importance of innovation. Their plastic designs enjoyed their peak success in the 60’s but they had to quickly reevaluate their brand due to environmental concerns and the growing popularity of cheap plastic.
In class, we questioned whether design was moving forward and I have a few thoughts on that subject. At Giovanni Lauda’s studio, we learned that he thinks design is at a bit of a standstill and that everyone is playing it safe. However, I think it is evident from our visit to Kartell and particularly Artemide, that new design spectacles are on the horizon and companies like theirs value research and new ways of thinking.
