Symposia #8 Reflection 23.4.2010
1. The city of Copenhagen recently installed several new statues on Gammeltorv. What is all about? How do people react and interact with them? If the statues were real human beings, would they react differently to it? Is Gammeltorv a good place for such an installation? Is there any other public space in Copenhagen that would be more suitable than Gammeltorv, and for what reason? Record your observation.
The bronze sculptures by Danish sculptor Jens Galschiøt are being displayed in heavily trafficked Gammeltorv in order to show the pedestrian that the homeless actually do live on the streets. Each individual sculpture tells its own story, and so the sculptures represent real homeless people. People who have been or are currently homeless act as guides for the exhibition, and Galschià passers-by will stop and join in the debate. The sculptures were created for a campaign Ending Homelessness.
The statues almost blend in during a busy afternoon at Gammeltorv. I at first did not notice them but when I did began to read all the titles. Rather then giving the statues names they share a brief story of a homeless individual...most have explanations of why they are homeless or how they are unable to fix their situation. This is an important part of the work...it gives the homeless a voice that is otherwise unheard and as the states are frozen to their form the homeless are unable to fix their own situation.
I sat for about an hour in Gammeltorv enjoying the sunshine, other onlookers, pedestrians passing down Stoget and more specifically I watched people interacting with the statues. I saw children sit on them while parents read the stories. I saw a man look comforted by the homeless man sitting on a green Copehagen bench. I saw a homeless person pass by unhindered by the art. Had the statues been real they would have been located elsewhere, like on the walking streets where if performing they are allowed to stay in the same spot for about an hour. I'm not so sure I've seen a homeless person or beggar in Gammeltorv. I think this is an internet place for the statues to be placed due to it's close proximity of the court house. An older Danish women was to of said that when she were young the homeless would spend time in front of the court house to try and make a political statement...a call for help. Perhaps it is a plea to the government, the welfare state, to help more those who are homeless. I wonder had they not wanted to install the statues a week earlier during the Queen's birthday?
I think that the statues were placed in a heavily trafficked area but I haven't seen people stay too long to read...it is more of a passing by street. Or perhaps people read one statue and assume the story is all the same...The statues are perhaps judged just at the homeless...all one in the same. I think the statues should be placed in miscellaneous areas around Copenhagen. I think they would make a louder statement and also draw more attention if placed alone on a street corner...or maybe two per all large squares in Copenhagen. Then people might be a bit more intrigued. Upon reading the plaques myself I immediately felt almost guilty for doing so. The life-like sculptures and public display almost made me feel invasive and embarrassed to stare. I think this was intentional by artist and campaign alike. The sad truth is that the homeless really do live in the public, they are looked down upon daily by those passing by without so much as a thought as to why they are homeless.
Had the sculptures been placed in a location in close proximity to where the homeless spend time they would not have spoken to the right crowd. While eating my bagel on Gammeltorv I thought about how it would be to have no food. Or to sit in a cold square past sundown. This thought may not have otherwise crossed my mind.
mandag den 26. april 2010
onsdag den 21. april 2010
Seksogtyve
16.2.2010 Lecture Reflection: Objectifying Design
Objectify and Design are practically one and the same. To objectify is to give something purpose or use and as earlier mentioned without use or function design becomes art. Design already has a purpose therefore it does not need to be objectified. Designs are things we use on a daily that aid us in our every activity. Such as kitchen utensils, a properly constructed bed, eye glasses and power outlets. It is however important that while these all have functions and are used as tools, that they offer aesthetic stimuli and pleasure. If objects were designed purely for function we might be surrounded by unfriendly, cold, obtrusive objects in our homes that would negate happy lifestyles. Thus designers are challenged to create designs that service form and function well. These items can be considered "Brudgunst" or "Every day art."
"Brudgunst" is a term that fills the questionable void between what is design and what is art...this is an argument that is entirely subjective. Can good design be considered art based upon purely form and aesthetic value? Can can something we use every day stand alone in a museum display and be regarded as artistic genius? Duchamp's urinal is a perfect example of an every day, very useful object-turned art. Over the years many people have collected, valued and displayed china sets in their dining rooms as objects of beauty...was there ever a time when the porcelain plates were just plates? Bri cannot say enough about her Dyson Ball vacuum cleaner, how beautiful it is, it's design is perfect and aids her vacuuming to a perfect T...is this art? Are Verner Panton's many textile patterns graphic art pre-curtain? The list goes on...
The point I try and make is that, while my point of view is subjective, the whole argument and discussion is silly. Design is an integral part of society that we cannot do without. In most cases designers, architects and artists alike have an inability to create something that at minimum does not agree with her or his own aesthetic appreciation. Designers have a trained eye to create what is appealing and practice creating what is more importantly functional. All designs are to be created as some sort of a tool. A tool for sitting. A tool for eating. A tool for typing. A tool for telling time. Since forever we've valued these tools for their function as well as their beauty. So do these "Every day art" pieces fall into their own category to bridge the in between of art and design? We chose to surround ourselves with tools we use every day and often select those which posses a certain beauty we are drawn to. When stripped down beyond task can every day objects stand alone as art? Can design exist without objectification?
"Brudgunst" is a term that fills the questionable void between what is design and what is art...this is an argument that is entirely subjective. Can good design be considered art based upon purely form and aesthetic value? Can can something we use every day stand alone in a museum display and be regarded as artistic genius? Duchamp's urinal is a perfect example of an every day, very useful object-turned art. Over the years many people have collected, valued and displayed china sets in their dining rooms as objects of beauty...was there ever a time when the porcelain plates were just plates? Bri cannot say enough about her Dyson Ball vacuum cleaner, how beautiful it is, it's design is perfect and aids her vacuuming to a perfect T...is this art? Are Verner Panton's many textile patterns graphic art pre-curtain? The list goes on...
The point I try and make is that, while my point of view is subjective, the whole argument and discussion is silly. Design is an integral part of society that we cannot do without. In most cases designers, architects and artists alike have an inability to create something that at minimum does not agree with her or his own aesthetic appreciation. Designers have a trained eye to create what is appealing and practice creating what is more importantly functional. All designs are to be created as some sort of a tool. A tool for sitting. A tool for eating. A tool for typing. A tool for telling time. Since forever we've valued these tools for their function as well as their beauty. So do these "Every day art" pieces fall into their own category to bridge the in between of art and design? We chose to surround ourselves with tools we use every day and often select those which posses a certain beauty we are drawn to. When stripped down beyond task can every day objects stand alone as art? Can design exist without objectification?
Femogtyve
12.3.2010 Guest Lecturer: Pernille Palsbro on Interior Design
Pernille began the lecture asking us what we thought was typical of Danish homes and interiors. As a class we came up with a list including: white walls, wood floors, simplicity, candles, not flashy, clean surfaces, attention to detail, simple materials, functionality, comfort and my personal favorite and contribution 'hygge.'
Since the beginning of DD class 'Hygge' has been a popular topic among myself and other students, whether relating to the style of a room or when we are making dinner together over bottles of wine and have a 'Hygglit' time. While the aesthetics of Danish homes are quite different then to what most of us are used to in the States it's the atmosphere and true coziness of homes here that create a large difference. When I first arrived in Copenhagen I was shocked by the cleanliness and simplicity of such designs and almost uncomfortable as I am at best used to loud designs, over decorated and cluttered homes.
I have now grown used to this and embrace the functionality and simplicity of the Danish home. I am going to miss it all very much. I am still impressed by the hidden designs of my coat rack or the simple wood plank book shelves in my room. I have grown used to the untreated floor boards and use of simple leather materials. I've gotten used to the small scale of living spaces and the intimacy created by close quarters. I love my open closet and few paintings on my wall. It seems while practiced in architecture "Gesamtkunstwerk," is also commonly used in Danish homes. As I've spent times with Danish people I've noticed that their attention to each other and relaxed moods are all part of the 'Hygge.'
Denmark is a small country and most things, other then people and personalities are also quite small. The simplicity of life style and subtle notions of wealth and value in homes are all a reflection of the Danish people and their pride. Last night I had dinner with a Danish family who I just met and spent the entire time feeling relaxed and welcome. I find myself a little in awe in a Danish home. While there is only nice things there isn't an over load of showy design. I find myself addressing the simple details of their decor and wonder if my family or country could ever do the same. It's as though the Danish home is small and simple to ensure that the people insider her walls are the focal point. I feel like most of the Danish people I've met are as honest as the materials inside their home...whether the design reflects the Danish nature or the Dane the home I am not sure.
I live in a very large country, with gigantic vehicles, loud designs, over sized homes and basically glutenous habits. For far too long the people in my country have prided themselves on having everything and anything...many vehicles, the biggest flat screen televisions and homes with 10-15 rooms. I'm used to bigger is better attitude. The Dane's live quite oppositely. While I realized this reflection is a bit off topic I am fascinated by the actual existence of 'Hygge' in my every day here. I'm find that the home and spaces in which we exist truly do effect the quality of life and how we live.
Pernille began the lecture asking us what we thought was typical of Danish homes and interiors. As a class we came up with a list including: white walls, wood floors, simplicity, candles, not flashy, clean surfaces, attention to detail, simple materials, functionality, comfort and my personal favorite and contribution 'hygge.'
Since the beginning of DD class 'Hygge' has been a popular topic among myself and other students, whether relating to the style of a room or when we are making dinner together over bottles of wine and have a 'Hygglit' time. While the aesthetics of Danish homes are quite different then to what most of us are used to in the States it's the atmosphere and true coziness of homes here that create a large difference. When I first arrived in Copenhagen I was shocked by the cleanliness and simplicity of such designs and almost uncomfortable as I am at best used to loud designs, over decorated and cluttered homes.
Denmark is a small country and most things, other then people and personalities are also quite small. The simplicity of life style and subtle notions of wealth and value in homes are all a reflection of the Danish people and their pride. Last night I had dinner with a Danish family who I just met and spent the entire time feeling relaxed and welcome. I find myself a little in awe in a Danish home. While there is only nice things there isn't an over load of showy design. I find myself addressing the simple details of their decor and wonder if my family or country could ever do the same. It's as though the Danish home is small and simple to ensure that the people insider her walls are the focal point. I feel like most of the Danish people I've met are as honest as the materials inside their home...whether the design reflects the Danish nature or the Dane the home I am not sure.
I live in a very large country, with gigantic vehicles, loud designs, over sized homes and basically glutenous habits. For far too long the people in my country have prided themselves on having everything and anything...many vehicles, the biggest flat screen televisions and homes with 10-15 rooms. I'm used to bigger is better attitude. The Dane's live quite oppositely. While I realized this reflection is a bit off topic I am fascinated by the actual existence of 'Hygge' in my every day here. I'm find that the home and spaces in which we exist truly do effect the quality of life and how we live.
Femogtyve
19.4.2010 Symposia # 7 "Special 1"
To compare and contrast Copenhagen or rather Denmark's transportation system to another is nearly impossible. Honestly the only comparisons are the modes to transport: Bus, Train, Metro etc. Any other city I've traveled in has been quite confusing and the multiple facets of transportation are so far from integrated, in Boston in-particular.
Boston's transportation system is a mess...road infrastructure included. Many years ago the city attempted to fix their mess by creating a new high way system which resulted in the catastrophe many New Englanders refer to as the "The Big Dig." Since such event, and as long as I can remember the roads and transit systems in and out of the greater Boston area have been unorganized and difficult to use. Anything far from convenient. For example I used to go from my college in Beverly to visit my boy friend at the time in Worcester. By car the drive from North of Boston to West of Boston is around an hour... by public transport it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. I would take a school shuttle that ran twice an hour to the Beverly Depot to meet up with the commuter rail. Due to train times I usually sat outside in the cold at Beverly Depot for around 20 minutes and then took a 31 minute ride into North Station that cost me $5.00. Once at North Station I would buy a $1.75 Subway ticket and take the Red and Orange line to South Station...this usually took me about 30 minutes. Once at South Station I would wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours for a commuter rail to Worcester. The Worcester commuter rail is beyond slow and would take a minimum of 120 minutes at the cost of $7.00. Once in Worcester the only mode of transport to Holy Cross would be a $10.00 and 5 minute Taxi ride. The cost to fill up my car tank is around $30.00 of which I would only use a quarter tank to get to Worcester. While all this scheduling and expenses are terrible the smell and aesthetics, poor quality of direction and design of Boston's public transit isn't even noted.
You can see that in this one trip, which I took multiple times public transportation was neither the inexpensive, quick or easiest option. I refuse to ever make this trip again. I don't think many Danes understand the beauty of public transit here. Here you can pay once and use the same ticket or transportation pass for all modes of transportation. Here you pay by zone rather then by use. Here you can guarantee that no matter how many modes of transportation you use your trip will be cohesive and rather prompt. One thing that clearly displays this collaboration between companies and modes of transport is Rejseplanan. This tool has proven easy to use and entirely beneficial. When trying to commute in Boston you have to visit 3 or 4 sites to coordinate your travel and even then can't guarantee that schedules and maps are up to date.
While the transportation system here isn't perfect its benefits are much more prevalent then cons. The infrastructure here in Denmark compliments the public transportation system and really does make it a convenient and inexpensive option. Previous to the past month I didn't use the public transportation system on a regular basis. I was pedestrian commuter and have now become a regular 6A Bus commuter. The 6A runs often enough that I never have to wait more then 10 minutes for a bus. It has many stops along my way to and from the center of Copenhagen which gives me the option of never needing other modes of transport. As my time concludes here in Copenhagen I dread the weekly commute I will make into Boston for my semester long internship.
To compare and contrast Copenhagen or rather Denmark's transportation system to another is nearly impossible. Honestly the only comparisons are the modes to transport: Bus, Train, Metro etc. Any other city I've traveled in has been quite confusing and the multiple facets of transportation are so far from integrated, in Boston in-particular.
Boston's transportation system is a mess...road infrastructure included. Many years ago the city attempted to fix their mess by creating a new high way system which resulted in the catastrophe many New Englanders refer to as the "The Big Dig." Since such event, and as long as I can remember the roads and transit systems in and out of the greater Boston area have been unorganized and difficult to use. Anything far from convenient. For example I used to go from my college in Beverly to visit my boy friend at the time in Worcester. By car the drive from North of Boston to West of Boston is around an hour... by public transport it can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. I would take a school shuttle that ran twice an hour to the Beverly Depot to meet up with the commuter rail. Due to train times I usually sat outside in the cold at Beverly Depot for around 20 minutes and then took a 31 minute ride into North Station that cost me $5.00. Once at North Station I would buy a $1.75 Subway ticket and take the Red and Orange line to South Station...this usually took me about 30 minutes. Once at South Station I would wait anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours for a commuter rail to Worcester. The Worcester commuter rail is beyond slow and would take a minimum of 120 minutes at the cost of $7.00. Once in Worcester the only mode of transport to Holy Cross would be a $10.00 and 5 minute Taxi ride. The cost to fill up my car tank is around $30.00 of which I would only use a quarter tank to get to Worcester. While all this scheduling and expenses are terrible the smell and aesthetics, poor quality of direction and design of Boston's public transit isn't even noted. 
You can see that in this one trip, which I took multiple times public transportation was neither the inexpensive, quick or easiest option. I refuse to ever make this trip again. I don't think many Danes understand the beauty of public transit here. Here you can pay once and use the same ticket or transportation pass for all modes of transportation. Here you pay by zone rather then by use. Here you can guarantee that no matter how many modes of transportation you use your trip will be cohesive and rather prompt. One thing that clearly displays this collaboration between companies and modes of transport is Rejseplanan. This tool has proven easy to use and entirely beneficial. When trying to commute in Boston you have to visit 3 or 4 sites to coordinate your travel and even then can't guarantee that schedules and maps are up to date. 
fredag den 16. april 2010
Fireogtyve
Lecture Reflection 16.4.2010 Transportation Design
Since arriving in Copenhagen I have been astounded by the fluidity of motion throughout this city. People. Cars. Bikes. Buses. Trains. Metro. Escalators. Doors. Waiting lines. Copenhagen seems to function as a well oiled machine, comparatively to my home city Boston, well there is no real comparison, Copenhagen appears flawless. The infrastructure responsible for such smooth transitions is understated by the Dane's and highly appreciated by the American traveler. While the functionality of the transportation blows my mind I am more so interested in the transparent integration of modern design and that of historical Danish design.
Every bus stop to metro sign have recently been designed in simple, sleek, modern style. The simplicity of such designs is not only aesthetically pleasing but does not distract from the designs of the past. With the use of consistent traditional materiality modern forms do not feel out of place even within the oldest parts of Copenhagen. Contrasting this cohesive style are many European cities that look thrown together. While the aesthetics of Nørreport Station are extremely different from that of the Round Tower the walk from Nørreport St down Strøget seems natural and fluid.
Danish architects and city planners have been taught to respect architectural feats of the past. As an ode to such lessons much of modern Danish architecture and civic designs have consistent materials with designs of the past, such as brick and steel used in traditional Danish design. The modern designs seem to compliment what has been standing for hundreds of years. The materials used, and designs completed are as fluid and translucent from one another as that of the actually inferstructure and physical planning of the transportation here in Denmark. It is hard to decide whether the two are divisble or whether aesthetics and function would not be as successful without the other. This in between bit is what makes the transportation here in Copenhagen so Danish: form and function equally successful and considered.
Since arriving in Copenhagen I have been astounded by the fluidity of motion throughout this city. People. Cars. Bikes. Buses. Trains. Metro. Escalators. Doors. Waiting lines. Copenhagen seems to function as a well oiled machine, comparatively to my home city Boston, well there is no real comparison, Copenhagen appears flawless. The infrastructure responsible for such smooth transitions is understated by the Dane's and highly appreciated by the American traveler. While the functionality of the transportation blows my mind I am more so interested in the transparent integration of modern design and that of historical Danish design.
Every bus stop to metro sign have recently been designed in simple, sleek, modern style. The simplicity of such designs is not only aesthetically pleasing but does not distract from the designs of the past. With the use of consistent traditional materiality modern forms do not feel out of place even within the oldest parts of Copenhagen. Contrasting this cohesive style are many European cities that look thrown together. While the aesthetics of Nørreport Station are extremely different from that of the Round Tower the walk from Nørreport St down Strøget seems natural and fluid.
Danish architects and city planners have been taught to respect architectural feats of the past. As an ode to such lessons much of modern Danish architecture and civic designs have consistent materials with designs of the past, such as brick and steel used in traditional Danish design. The modern designs seem to compliment what has been standing for hundreds of years. The materials used, and designs completed are as fluid and translucent from one another as that of the actually inferstructure and physical planning of the transportation here in Denmark. It is hard to decide whether the two are divisble or whether aesthetics and function would not be as successful without the other. This in between bit is what makes the transportation here in Copenhagen so Danish: form and function equally successful and considered.
torsdag den 15. april 2010
Treogtyve
Field Study Reflection #4 #14.4.2010
A hidden "Civic Design Gem" in Copenhagen: A visit to Ørstedsparken.
I have chosen to send my classmates to my personal favorite place in Copenhagen. Since being a Ahlefeltsgade 29 resident I have walked through Ørstedsparken almost daily. As the winter months are turning into spring I see why local Danes rave about this park. While not the largest of green spaces Ørstedsparken has the quirkiest, friendliest atmosphere. Though a close walk from Norreport St as well as DIS campus not many of my students know of it's existence.
Ørstedsparken is the only park open 24 hours a day and has a slightly negative connotation for things that happen in parks at the wee hours of the night. However during the day it offers much to it's visitors. It has a beautiful cafe whose coffee kicks Baresso's butt. In the winter months it's frozen ponds and hills offer the ice skater and sledder alike entertainment not traditionally found in Copenhagen's flat city. Ørstedsparken has several recreational play grounds for children as well as walking paths for runners, bikers and dog walkers alike. It's many statues, trees and flower offer much aesthetic quality and it's close proximity to the center of Copenhagen makes it a convenient stop.
So much of Copenhagen's civic pride resides in the livability of the city. A very important part of city life is interaction with other people as well as availability of public green spaces. Ørstedsparken is located in the heart of Copenhagen has is often overlooked due it's down-played nature. The park is truly designed for people of all ages and type. As a public space it offers luxury, beauty and relaxation from busy city life and embodies Copenhagen's civic minded attitude.
A hidden "Civic Design Gem" in Copenhagen: A visit to Ørstedsparken.
I have chosen to send my classmates to my personal favorite place in Copenhagen. Since being a Ahlefeltsgade 29 resident I have walked through Ørstedsparken almost daily. As the winter months are turning into spring I see why local Danes rave about this park. While not the largest of green spaces Ørstedsparken has the quirkiest, friendliest atmosphere. Though a close walk from Norreport St as well as DIS campus not many of my students know of it's existence.
Ørstedsparken is the only park open 24 hours a day and has a slightly negative connotation for things that happen in parks at the wee hours of the night. However during the day it offers much to it's visitors. It has a beautiful cafe whose coffee kicks Baresso's butt. In the winter months it's frozen ponds and hills offer the ice skater and sledder alike entertainment not traditionally found in Copenhagen's flat city. Ørstedsparken has several recreational play grounds for children as well as walking paths for runners, bikers and dog walkers alike. It's many statues, trees and flower offer much aesthetic quality and it's close proximity to the center of Copenhagen makes it a convenient stop. 
Toogtyve
Civic Design Lecture Reflection 12.4.2010
When discussing Civic Design in class I can't help but see the parallels between civic thought and the traditional methods of Danish design as a general entity. So much of DD is focused on the people as a whole and what will help benefit the masses. It seems that Danish designer are already quite civic minded. With that being said most Danish designed elements of the city benefit the people as well as the environment due to government enforced taxation, laws and zoning rules. Because of these elements the way in which the Dane's live is highly more sustainable then that of the average American. Furthermore Danish lifestyles and practices are shaped by the designs around them.
Because Copenhagen specifically has such a strong public transport system and sense of strong city life civic design become evermore important. It seems most Dane's truly use the "One-story," city as their living room and large part of life. Copenhagen has done a great job at revitalizing important public space. Because of this Danes take pride in preserving the quality of life within the city creating civic pride. The sustainable city is adopted as part of each individuals dwelling thus impact the way Dane's live within their homes.
I'm not so sure if it's a common European tradition to have design competitions for things such as phone booths and bus stops but we certainly do not take the same care at home. I have been impressed throughout the semester with the little details around Copenhagen...such as the side walks. While my friends and I were convinced the paved areas were for heel wearing pedestrians it makes perfect sense that the stone are easy to pop up and access plumbing lines. Such initiatives and well though out civic design is what makes Copenhagen function as a well oiled machine. Copenhagen has adopted the identity of a happy livable place to life. I think a lot of this can be credited to not only civic pride but quality of civic design. Strong qually in form and function. So Danish.
When discussing Civic Design in class I can't help but see the parallels between civic thought and the traditional methods of Danish design as a general entity. So much of DD is focused on the people as a whole and what will help benefit the masses. It seems that Danish designer are already quite civic minded. With that being said most Danish designed elements of the city benefit the people as well as the environment due to government enforced taxation, laws and zoning rules. Because of these elements the way in which the Dane's live is highly more sustainable then that of the average American. Furthermore Danish lifestyles and practices are shaped by the designs around them.
Because Copenhagen specifically has such a strong public transport system and sense of strong city life civic design become evermore important. It seems most Dane's truly use the "One-story," city as their living room and large part of life. Copenhagen has done a great job at revitalizing important public space. Because of this Danes take pride in preserving the quality of life within the city creating civic pride. The sustainable city is adopted as part of each individuals dwelling thus impact the way Dane's live within their homes.
I'm not so sure if it's a common European tradition to have design competitions for things such as phone booths and bus stops but we certainly do not take the same care at home. I have been impressed throughout the semester with the little details around Copenhagen...such as the side walks. While my friends and I were convinced the paved areas were for heel wearing pedestrians it makes perfect sense that the stone are easy to pop up and access plumbing lines. Such initiatives and well though out civic design is what makes Copenhagen function as a well oiled machine. Copenhagen has adopted the identity of a happy livable place to life. I think a lot of this can be credited to not only civic pride but quality of civic design. Strong qually in form and function. So Danish.
Enogtyve
Symposia #6 Reflection
1. Find an object at home that is aesthetically pleasing but turned out not to be very functional. Discuss why it didn't work properly and how this relates to the designer understanding material and craft.
The purchase/item I will focus on was bought here in Kobehavn during Fashion Weeks beautiful sales. While I am well aware that my Aldo wedges are not Danish designed they are the only disappointment I've had thus far. Nothing let's you down like a beautiful pair of shoes that creates monstrous blisters every-time you wear them. I prefer comfort to aesthetic pleasure like a Dane function to form. I don't buy that pain is beauty crap.However I could not pass up the wicked 200 kr sale on my beautiful Aldo Prez leather pair.
Aldo is a mainstream international shoe company that focuses mainly and woman's and men's dress shoes. They are well known and quite successful. I think it is safe to assume that my made in Taiwan shoes were not crafted by the original designer and that the un-comfort-ability of this shoe is an exact result of the major disconnection between crafter and shoe designer. This disconnect is quite common in today's design production market. While the person who designed my shoe probably has studied fashion, he or she probably hasn't had to psychically craft shoes. While a books and classes are able to educate to a certain degree they certainly do not gift the same education that a traditional cobbler apprenticeship may have once offered. Today's modern shoe designer probably knows as much about materiality as and eight year old knows paint after a paint by number kit is completed. Because students aren't educated with practical hands on lessons we miss a very important understanding of the materials we work with. As a result of such mishap I ended up with 6,000 blisters on my little feet post my first Festivahn party. Too much dancing in poorly designed shoes is a catastrophe that perhaps could be avoided by opting to groove barefoot or buying hand crafted heels. I now chose to cut the rug all natural.
2. Looking towards the future: Do you believe there are no recent designs (all old from at least 70's) or do you think there are new eco-friendly and innovative Danish designs that help the world? Give examples
Designers today are faced with the challenge of re-thinking the way we make things. While the need to invent new technology may not being strong main stream design is taking a turn to adapting new material choices. While in the past the quickest and easiest material construction methods were chosen designers must now think of the future of their products. Rather then creating cradle to grave we must now design cradle to cradle. While designers and manufacturers adapt this school of thought we can expect to see huge changes in materialization of products rather then brand new inventions. This will challenge designers to understand the materials of choice much better and also understand the consequences of using such materials. Perhaps eco-heels of the future will also benefit Festivahn dancing queens.
1. Find an object at home that is aesthetically pleasing but turned out not to be very functional. Discuss why it didn't work properly and how this relates to the designer understanding material and craft.
The purchase/item I will focus on was bought here in Kobehavn during Fashion Weeks beautiful sales. While I am well aware that my Aldo wedges are not Danish designed they are the only disappointment I've had thus far. Nothing let's you down like a beautiful pair of shoes that creates monstrous blisters every-time you wear them. I prefer comfort to aesthetic pleasure like a Dane function to form. I don't buy that pain is beauty crap.However I could not pass up the wicked 200 kr sale on my beautiful Aldo Prez leather pair.
2. Looking towards the future: Do you believe there are no recent designs (all old from at least 70's) or do you think there are new eco-friendly and innovative Danish designs that help the world? Give examples
Designers today are faced with the challenge of re-thinking the way we make things. While the need to invent new technology may not being strong main stream design is taking a turn to adapting new material choices. While in the past the quickest and easiest material construction methods were chosen designers must now think of the future of their products. Rather then creating cradle to grave we must now design cradle to cradle. While designers and manufacturers adapt this school of thought we can expect to see huge changes in materialization of products rather then brand new inventions. This will challenge designers to understand the materials of choice much better and also understand the consequences of using such materials. Perhaps eco-heels of the future will also benefit Festivahn dancing queens.
mandag den 15. marts 2010
Tyve
Reflection of Fashion Design Guest Lecture 10.3.2010
Upon hearing the lecture on Danish fashion I am still a bit confused about what is exactly Danish fashion and what sets it apart from other fashion capitals in the world. It seems the government has put in sufficient funds and efforts to boost the Danish fashion industry which haven't changed Denmark's overall status. Perhaps efforts such as Fashion Week have helped Danes buy more Danish clothing. It seems however that the over-all Danish style is a truly complex mix of international styles thrown into a melting pot.
When I first came to Denmark I was shocked by the beauty of the Danish people. I had never seen a 6' tall women wearing heels riding a bike, while covered in beautiful firs, hats and scarves...all the while looking beautiful and making a 20 minute biking commute to work. It seems that almost each Dane has their own style and preference as to how one should dress. It seems climate has a natural effect on what items of clothing people wear on a regular, while each brand of item differs from person to person. Such as boots...everyone here has at least one pair of beautiful boots they wear often. When comparing Danish fashion to Danish Design I think it is an interesting that the climate here in Denmark has great, possibly equal effect, on how people live in homes and how people dress.
Danish homes are small and simple. They are designed to be functional and "Hygge." They do not show off peoples wealth with size or gaudy decor but rather subtle design decisions are made to show case important pieces of furniture or decor. Many Danish homes showcase the same important pieces of Danish designed furniture and style. Danish fashion seems to embody many of these same guidelines. In the US most people take pride in size and this is reflected in the size of our homes, vehicles, property and how we dress. In the US everything is about, in comparison to the Danes, cheap status. People have name-brands plastered all over the wardrobe to showcase what they can afford. There is no guessing or subtlety in American style. I have found it very refreshing to see styles of all shapes and sizes in the Danish culture. It seems the one similarity between all is that there aren't many logos or fashion brands smacked all over Danish clothing. It wasn't until the 1950s that the Danes started putting tags on their clothing to address whom the designer was. While everyone seems properly dresses and well equip with fashion sense, people don't feel and overall need to be loud about it. It's refreshing.
Furthermore because the Danes have been brought up well aware of good design and appreciation for all arts there is an innate sense of good style. While the Danes may not have an obvious style that is coined as Danish, the Danes are for sure very styling. Everyone here seems to have a very good idea about how to best dress their body. It seems that possibly not having a typical Danish style is what perhaps strengthens the Danish fashion industry. Uniqueness and subtlety is encouraged allowing great opportunity for the Danes to celebrate many styles and dress.
Images listed above are designed by Danish fashion designer Mara Høgh Heilmann of label AYMARA. She has been quoted "In this modern, transient world, everything is quickly discarded. i wanted to create a product that endures, not just in time, but also in people’s hearts."
I felt this line was useful to show the connection between Danish ideas of lasting. Danish designers practice making useful, practical tools for every day life that will last and improve quality of life. Heilmann seems to try the same in her line of clothing. There is nothing crazy or loud about her designs but her clothing is well crafted and she is familiar with the material used at hand. The quality of the clothing is what makes it beautiful and appreciated much like that of Danish furniture and architectural designs.
Upon hearing the lecture on Danish fashion I am still a bit confused about what is exactly Danish fashion and what sets it apart from other fashion capitals in the world. It seems the government has put in sufficient funds and efforts to boost the Danish fashion industry which haven't changed Denmark's overall status. Perhaps efforts such as Fashion Week have helped Danes buy more Danish clothing. It seems however that the over-all Danish style is a truly complex mix of international styles thrown into a melting pot.
When I first came to Denmark I was shocked by the beauty of the Danish people. I had never seen a 6' tall women wearing heels riding a bike, while covered in beautiful firs, hats and scarves...all the while looking beautiful and making a 20 minute biking commute to work. It seems that almost each Dane has their own style and preference as to how one should dress. It seems climate has a natural effect on what items of clothing people wear on a regular, while each brand of item differs from person to person. Such as boots...everyone here has at least one pair of beautiful boots they wear often. When comparing Danish fashion to Danish Design I think it is an interesting that the climate here in Denmark has great, possibly equal effect, on how people live in homes and how people dress.
Danish homes are small and simple. They are designed to be functional and "Hygge." They do not show off peoples wealth with size or gaudy decor but rather subtle design decisions are made to show case important pieces of furniture or decor. Many Danish homes showcase the same important pieces of Danish designed furniture and style. Danish fashion seems to embody many of these same guidelines. In the US most people take pride in size and this is reflected in the size of our homes, vehicles, property and how we dress. In the US everything is about, in comparison to the Danes, cheap status. People have name-brands plastered all over the wardrobe to showcase what they can afford. There is no guessing or subtlety in American style. I have found it very refreshing to see styles of all shapes and sizes in the Danish culture. It seems the one similarity between all is that there aren't many logos or fashion brands smacked all over Danish clothing. It wasn't until the 1950s that the Danes started putting tags on their clothing to address whom the designer was. While everyone seems properly dresses and well equip with fashion sense, people don't feel and overall need to be loud about it. It's refreshing.Furthermore because the Danes have been brought up well aware of good design and appreciation for all arts there is an innate sense of good style. While the Danes may not have an obvious style that is coined as Danish, the Danes are for sure very styling. Everyone here seems to have a very good idea about how to best dress their body. It seems that possibly not having a typical Danish style is what perhaps strengthens the Danish fashion industry. Uniqueness and subtlety is encouraged allowing great opportunity for the Danes to celebrate many styles and dress.
Images listed above are designed by Danish fashion designer Mara Høgh Heilmann of label AYMARA. She has been quoted "In this modern, transient world, everything is quickly discarded. i wanted to create a product that endures, not just in time, but also in people’s hearts."
I felt this line was useful to show the connection between Danish ideas of lasting. Danish designers practice making useful, practical tools for every day life that will last and improve quality of life. Heilmann seems to try the same in her line of clothing. There is nothing crazy or loud about her designs but her clothing is well crafted and she is familiar with the material used at hand. The quality of the clothing is what makes it beautiful and appreciated much like that of Danish furniture and architectural designs.
tirsdag den 9. marts 2010
Nitten
Reading Reflections 9.3.2010 "Danish Fashion" by Marie Riegels Melchlor, Ph. D
Danish fashion design can be considered a late bloomer. It wasn't until the 1960s that Danes started to make a name for themselves in the fashion world. Previously to that time Danish fashion was influenced by international styles from larger fashion capitals such as Paris and London. It is important to note that the same foreign influences applied to design, craftsmanship and technology, that at this time had been highly influenced from abroad. Previous to the 1960s Danish fashion was more so related to typical peasant and folk costumes often worn throughout different regions of Denmark, aesthetics and colors varying throughout regions. Traditional costumes were based upon functionality and use. Because of Denmark's climatic conditions it is important that the clothes were properly constructed as to actually keep people warm. Much of the materials used in such costumes reflected the climate such as wools and also minx and fox furs.
In the 1950s Danes started with a bit of amateur design often times copying and or buying patents off of designers from larger fashion capitals. During World War Two there was not enough material to make strong individual designs and too much international competition. Danish designers had to think of a way to attract Danish consumers. At this point the Danes started creating designer brands of clothing and were highly provoked by the youth movement that was a current fad in America as well as England. The movement can be related to the time of when the Beatles swept the globe with fiery passion... the youth movement consisted of this idea that young people wanted to appear young, feel young and in doing so dress young and "hip." The clothes were simple, casual and clean cut. Unlike much of the bohemian styles related to modern Danish design these were simplified articles of clothing. At the time the shopping experience changed in Denmark as young people were able to sift through clothes with more options then before...Danes were given the freedom to individualize their wardrobe a bit more then in the past.
Today the Danish attitude toward fashion is forward. Denmark's governmental system is working hard to try and promote Danish design in hopes that it will become a large industry for export. The current Danish style is much like that of all international style. The Danes have adopted the modern tradition of wearing jeans and t-shirts and supporting designers from around the world. The Danes in general are usually portrayed as happy, relaxed and open-minded people. This is associated both with the Danish appreciation for "hygge" and also the country liberal society. It seems that Danish fashion is a collaboration of Danish ideals and practices and also embodies the strong influence of nearby European and Scandinavian styles. While Danish Design has been highly established and branded since the 1960s it had taken longer for Danish Fashion to hold a strong place amongst other fashion capitals in the world. It wasn't until the late 70s that Denmark established fashion magazines and even later that a Fashion school was adopted. As these things mature and develop Denmark will probably see more emphasis on what is Danish Fashion.
In the 1950s Danes started with a bit of amateur design often times copying and or buying patents off of designers from larger fashion capitals. During World War Two there was not enough material to make strong individual designs and too much international competition. Danish designers had to think of a way to attract Danish consumers. At this point the Danes started creating designer brands of clothing and were highly provoked by the youth movement that was a current fad in America as well as England. The movement can be related to the time of when the Beatles swept the globe with fiery passion... the youth movement consisted of this idea that young people wanted to appear young, feel young and in doing so dress young and "hip." The clothes were simple, casual and clean cut. Unlike much of the bohemian styles related to modern Danish design these were simplified articles of clothing. At the time the shopping experience changed in Denmark as young people were able to sift through clothes with more options then before...Danes were given the freedom to individualize their wardrobe a bit more then in the past. 
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