Design is the basis of all creativity. This plain phrase is reiterative of the powerful notion that design which has a clear objective directs our modern lives. Generally applied to architectural planning or functional articles,design,is really about managing constraints and bridging gaps be it ideas or engineering. The ongoing India Design Forum (IDF) in the Capital,the very first edition of the international platform,which brings together various design disciplines,underlines this omnipresence. Curated by Rajshree and Aishwarya Pathy,founders of Coimbatore Centre of Contemporary Arts (CoCCA),IDF is an ambitious and inclusive forum for dialogue,debate,consensus and action about everything that design can change or enhance. Although we have a rich artistic heritage in India and a wealth of talent,design is still misunderstood not only by the general public as elitist,but also by corporates and at a policy level. The design space in India is fragmented without platforms for its practitioners to have a dialogue that encompasses both the broad theoretical as well as industry-related issues, says Rajshree. Architecture,fashion,jewellery,art,interiors,products,graphics,science,ethics and academics,the event is layered enough to spark off strategic alliances and cross-cultural design thinking. It started on the March 2 with the unveiling of a mixed media mural called Meeting of History by artist Jagannath Panda and went on to include viewings of heritage jewellery,conceptual shows by fine artists; the design dynamics of swimwear by beachwear designers Shivan and Narresh,among other events. IDF has been segregated into Design Week (till March 8) and Design Forum (March 9 and 10). The best part is the inclusiveness which brings together different creative energies on one platform, says designer Kavita Bhartia,who will showcase garments in natural indigo as part of a sustainable fashion and art exhibition called Earth Seed. All artists emphasise this blurring of boundaries. Jewellery is meant to enliven,to adorn,intoxicate. One doesnt have to own it to appreciate it. It can also be viewed aesthetically as a piece of art without one having to possess it, says contemporary jewellery designer Hanut Singh. If there are creators on the one side,there are international design analysts,academics and forecasters on the other. Some will chair sessions on trend forecasts,science and ethics and why good design translates into good business. A Trend Union Seminar organised by Ganjam Jewellers will be conducted by internationally acclaimed trend forecaster Lidewij Edelkoort. Another invigorating session on Best Design Ideas of the Year will be hosted by MOMAs senior curator Paola Antonelli. India is an important subject here,with a special session devoted to Design and the Indian Identity and another to The Chandigarh Experience architect Le Corbusiers finest work and its present-day plundering. IDF seeks to disseminate global design information to students,faculty,corporates and design practitioners in India, adds Rajshree. That it is all happening by design is what we must applaud. Contact:
