Design has become the embodiment of a larger process of creative ‘culture-mongering’ that has become a means to capture ideation, innovation and enterprise and made to stand for cultural identity. Whilst the application of design is multiplying exponentially, it is loosing its vailidity as a cultural icon. We need to reclaim a more long lasting cultural integrity and return to a type of cultural fundamentalism.
Trend report by David Carlson and Brent Richards
Design + Culture – A Return to Fundamentalism?
Design has become synonymous with the labelling of culture; ’designed culture’, now represents not only the emblem of cultural prosperity, but is considered as a means to legitimatise whole areas of urban regeneration, and for gaining international recognition as well as mediating for social change. For example, the siting of the London Olympics in the east of London and the recent award to Qatar, to host 2022 World Cup Finals and to build national identity defined by football (an amazing feat for a tiny peninsula in Persian Gulf that was no more than barren desert twenty-two years ago).
Read the full report here
Download pdf version here
About David Report
David Report offers cutting-edge critical thought in the intersection of design, culture and commercial life. With a creative and humanistic approach we write about the latest and most interesting news, ideas and concepts concerning art, architecture, culture, design, fashion, music, sustainability and travel. We are trying to make a difference by challenging the conventional mindset.