Artefact 2050

Artefact 2050/ Tool: Fibre-Optic Cable p2/ Planispheric Astrolabe p3/ Compass p4/ Tesla Battery Pack p5/ Huntsman Wood p6/ iPhone 12 Pro p6/ Multiwall Polycarbonate Panel p7/ Unité d’Habitation de Marseilles p8/ Warré Beehive p9/ N–Type IBC Solar Panel p10/ Liter of Light p11/ DSLR Camera p12/ Flames Shoes p13/ Dalí Flower Spoon p14/ Stainless Steel Straw p14/ Safety Syringe p15/ Face

Artefact 2050/ Tool: Fibre-Optic Cable p2/ Planispheric Astrolabe p3/ Compass p4/ Tesla Battery Pack p5/ Huntsman Wood p6/ iPhone 12 Pro p6/ Multiwall Polycarbonate Panel p7/ Unité d’Habitation de Marseilles p8/ Warré Beehive p9/ N–Type IBC Solar Panel p10/ Liter of Light p11/ DSLR Camera p12/ Flames Shoes p13/ Dalí Flower Spoon p14/ Stainless Steel Straw p14/ Safety Syringe p15/ Face

Artefact 2050 was co-created by Year 1 students from the BA Design Management course at London College of Communication as part of their Design Principles Unit.

Printed resourcefully on surplus [waste] paperstock and supplemented with FSC, PEFC and EU Ecolabel certified papers.

Fabricated in LCC’s print room with litho and riso processes using vegetable-based inks.

Foreword This premise of this publication was to represent and collate human made objects of significance; to capture diverse views on designed items worth saving for a 2050 future.

As we speculated about this future, we could not escape the challenging and manifold ways our present lives were upended. The pandemic backdrop in which Artefact 2050 came to fruition provided both logistical barriers and compassionate perspectives in equal measure. From 2020 to 2021 we worked as a class across time zones and continents, studio spaces and bedrooms, endeavouring to connect, learn and create, and in doing so, became increasingly aware of the synergistic capacity of design.

To assemble and fathom the items that were verbally and visually investigated, we turned to Victor Papanek’s seminal book ‘Design for the Real World’ [1971/1984/2019], and more specifically the ‘Function Complex’ diagram which sets out the six key aspects of design functionality.

The complex, categorises ‘use’ in terms of tool, communication or symbol, and we have used this definition to gently inform the narrative of this publication.

Within this same diagram of actions and relationships, our attention is also drawn to Papanek’s criteria of ‘telesis’, that ‘design must reflect the times and conditions that have given rise to it and must fit in with the general human socioeconomic order in which it is to operate.’ Reflecting now on our consolidated Artefact 2050 publication, it is undoubtedly an object of telesic design and perhaps even an artefact of significance in its own right; acting as a documented slither of design exploration and education during an extraordinary period of time.

We hope it will serve to remind us of the resilience, camaraderie and resourcefulness creativity can muster!

TARA HANRAHAN & BILLY KIOSOGLOU ACADEMIC & CREATIVE PROJECT LEADS

As a consequence, the cable not only connects us over platforms like Zoom or FaceTime, but also creates jobs. It has been noted that the UK creates or retains 280,500 jobs a year thanks to investments into the network infrastructure. The SQW Impact Report estimated that the availability of fast fibre connections will add approximately £17 billion to the UK’s annual GVA by 2024.

The internet, through fibre-optics, could lead to more democratic societies and development.

2/Tool:

It took years of research for Charles Kuen Kao and his team at Corning Glass Inc. to come up with a functioning cable that could transmit data over great distances. This fibre-optic technology, built from plastic and glass, has transformed connectivity, and has been adopted in various fields, such as medicine, space, the military, as well as smart traffic systems. The worldwide web is available thanks to submarine networks that employ shielded configurations of the fibre-optic cable.

Explore

Date: 1999 / Inventor: Alcatel Submarine Networks / Function: Long distance, high performance data transmission

A collection of artefacts [from the intricate to the elementary] with a clear purpose to enable humankind to do something – to comprehend, to act, to live.

Fibre-Optic Cable

Like many innovations, fibre-optics come with their own set of flaws. The human reliance on this technology is worrisome: damage to cross-continental cables would cause major disruption; poor countries are unable to invest in fibre-optic infrastructure, which widens the technological gap and access to information; the industrial waste that has accumulated over the last 40 years (due to lack of recycling) which is expected to last in landfills beyond 500 years.

However, it is crucial to weigh up the benefits against these challenges. When evaluating, one cannot deny the economical, sociological, and psychological wins facilitated by fibre-optic cable. With new recycling options and government investment, the faults in this technological system have the potential to be eradicated. A 2020 without fibre-optics is beyond comprehension.

This clever combination of plastic and glass has already reshaped and linked humanity, imagine the technological heights it has yet to enable?

RE UNRE

AS TR OL

– PLANISPHER E B IC LA C RI

RO T AS

Looking to the future, much attention has been focused on the possibilities of outer-space. Amidst concerns about environmental issues and climate change, we have begun to look beyond our planet for resources and habitable locations. Many envision life on other planets and the increase in popularity and accessibility of space tourism,( via the likes of SpaceX and Virgin Galactic) is real.

Whilst technology and knowledge in this area are infinitely more advanced than when the astrolabe was conceived, it remains a pertinent symbol for how this enquiry originated – demonstrating the parallels between previous ages of exploration, and this era of space exploration.

STROLABE –

Today, astrolabes teach us about history, by looking at how they shaped the world, for better or worse. Most astrolabes are an amalgamation of Islamic design, Hebrew script and Christian features, based on Ancient Greek technology, representing the vast exchange of knowledge between scholars at the time. Without constant collaboration, society could not have developed to its current state, and the astrolabe is the perfect example of this.

PL A NI S

Due to the multi-functionality of the astrolabe, curiosity across the globe was sparked, with several nations simultaneously developing the design, by adding discs and devices to further improve its capabilities. This in turn triggered a period of rapid technological development and the entering of the Age of Exploration, leading to the ‘discovery’ of many countries and the advancement of other technologies such as the compass, clock and telescope.

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ACH THE ACHABLE

IC A HER SP NI

The astrolabe is regarded as one of the most important pre-digital devices: used as a compass, a clock (that unlike sundials could be used day or night), a tool to accurately predict the time of sunset or sunrise, and calculate measurements.

BE

P H E

The planispheric astrolabe is a powerful astronomical calculator, traditionally made by casting brass, or other metal. It consists of several discs, rulers and scales used to calculate the altitude of celestial bodies in the sky and map the stars – creating a model of the universe that fits in the palm of your hand.

A

Date: 1068 AD / Inventor: Ibrahīm ibn Sa’īd as-Sahlī / Function: Navigation and calculating time, seasons and distance

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Tool: Explore

Planispheric Astrolabe

ERIC ASTROLABE H P IS –P N A LA PL N

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Tool: Explore

“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.”

– T. S. Eliot

GATION VERSE ION

Compass Date: 1897 / Inventor: Dalvey / Function: Navigation The Dalvey Grand Voyager Compass (White Mother of Pearl), is one of humanity’s fundamental inventions. Navigation with this tool is both revolutionary and timeless.

This unique artefact works with the Earth’s natural magnetic field – the magnetic needle is drawn to the North of the planet allowing users to locate their destination. The Grand Voyager Compass has a rich history and Dalvey is a family-owned business which has designed compasses for hundreds of years. Combining ancient functionality with modern manufacturing, Dalvey is one of the largest compass brands that has evolved into an essential for sailors, scientists and explorers.

Compasses have helped scientists understand the Earth’s physical appearance and are considered to be the first navigational device.

With the understanding of basic directions, humankind could orientate, navigate and discover. The artefact has value beyond its practical use – as a symbol of determination and exploration; representing future and life orientation.

The Dalvey compass has design value because of its logical and simple functionality. It uses natural materials such as mother of pearl shell and works without the need for digital technology or electricity, by utilising Earth’s naturally-occurring forces. The value of this artefact is in reminding us of how early perceptions of the world were shaped, as in symbolising what our future directions might be.

Date: 2012 / Inventor: Elon Musk / Function: Electric car battery to enable harmful emissions reduction Tesla broke into the smart car industry and revolutionised it by introducing autonomous driving and clean energy. In the United States alone, cars contribute to 28% of greenhouse gas emissions – Tesla vehicles can reduce that contribution by 340 million pounds of C02.

The Tesla Battery Pack is pioneering and vital to preserve for the future as it shows, not only how far technology has advanced, but how it can continue to progress. Tesla currently uses NCA Panasonic batteries, which provide 70 KWH to operate their vehicles. They are made up of 7,000 smaller batteries which build the 16 packs per car (Model S). These current batteries consist of lithium-ion composites. Soon, Tesla plans to develop and upgrade, first to a 100 GW battery, and then eventually to a 3 TW battery by 2030.

With Tesla’s annual growth projections estimating 20 million vehicles a year, it is evident that a shift in consumption is occurring, which can only lead to wider environmental benefits. There are some other green advantages – the batteries currently operate via a wall outlet plug, however, some are also compatible with direct solar power; the new batteries (which will be introduced soon), aim to give the vehicles a greater range while using even less electricity.

To conclude, whilst functionally amazing, this battery design is also symbolic for the industry and the planet as a whole. As such, its significance will be important to recognise in 2050.

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Tool: Adapt

Tesla Battery Pack

NAVIG TRAV MOTI

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Tool: Adapt

iPhone 12 Pro Date: 2020 / Designer: Apple Inc. / Function: Smart communication

VERSATILITY

Like its 2007 predecessor, the iPhone 12 Pro started a technological and cultural revolution in 2020. The invention has become a testament to human innovation amidst the hardships of a global pandemic – featuring Ceramic Shield, LiDAR, and a telephoto camera lens.

The 12 Pro sports a new protective glass coating (Ceramic Shield), made of ceramic crystals formed within a crystalline matrix, giving it four times greater shatter and strength resistance at a fraction of the cost of sapphire glass.

The future points to AR technology and the Pro introduced Apple’s new LIDAR sensor. LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses laser to judge distance and depth. LIDAR allows the phone to benefit in low-light situations, for faster autofocus and Night Mode portrait photos. The Pro is equipped with a new seven-element Wide camera with an f/1.6 aperture. There is also an ultra wide camera, and a 52mm telephoto lens that offers 4× optical zoom.

With ProRAW, the Pro is also able to shoot high quality, uncompressed RAW files.

According to the New York Times, smartphone usage and user behaviour have adapted significantly due to COVID-19. NICCS states, that people should “stay vigilant about their personal safety and the health of others by acting with an abundance of caution in their physical, and cyber, lifestyles.” In 2020 the demand for technological integration has become more prominent than ever – it is the new normal. The iPhone 12 Pro is an extraordinary artefact, equipped for making the most of that new normal.

Huntsman Wood Date: 1891 / Designer: Victorinox / Function: Survival tool and companion The Swiss Army knife is a multi-tool pocket knife that has become one of the ultimate multi-purpose inventions. The Huntsman Wood model by Victorinox features thirteen tools, such as two blades, a wood saw, two screwdrivers, a corkscrew, a wire stripper and much more. These are stowed inside the wooden handle of the knife through a pivot mechanism. The ease of access to the tools makes it suitable for a variety of situations.

The Huntsman Wood model was designed with consumer needs in mind. The more this artefact is used, the more value and sentimentality it holds for the owner. However, they do not need to worry about ruining or damaging the knife, as Victorinox provides a repair service for all models, guaranteeing their continued function. Thus, keeping memories preserved, saving money and reducing the amount of landfill waste.

Nowadays many people view their mobile phone as a key ‘survival tool’ within their lives. Ask yourself this question: What would happen if, in the future, all technological devices were to shut down... what would you rely on to survive then?

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Tool: House

Multiwall Polycarbonate Panel Date: 2007 / Designers: Team of chemic engineers, Tato Architects / Function: Sustainable building substrate The Multiwall Polycarbonate Panel was invented in 2003 by a group of six chemical engineers from The Netherlands and Spain. The panels are made of polycarbonates – strong materials that range on transparency and are easy to work with as they are flexible enough to be moulded and thermoformed (reshaped with high temperatures).

The panel is being explored in modern architecture because of its capacity to keep heat inside the space it surrounds (high intrinsic thermal-insulation properties), its translucid quality (daylighting), lightweight, and minimal impact on the environment.

The panels have been mainly used in modern and flexible homes, as walls, sliding doors or roofs, as they are easy to replace and transport.

The polycarbonate panels are often compared to the ancient Shoji Panels (Japanese paper sliding structures), as they both follow the philosophy of designing a space that communicates with the environment (light, temperature, space). This is exactly what informed the architect Yo Shimada creation of this artefact.

The Multiwall Polycarbonate Panel is a substitute for glass and for vastly used concrete walls. Polycarbonate is still plastic, and it has the potential of harming the environment if not recycled.

However, its benefits are undeniable, it is 100% recyclable as well as being biodegradable in a decade. The panel is also produced in closed process, meaning it has careful emission practices.

Finally, further sheets with heating-properties or even plastic from recycled PET bottles can be placed between the multiwalls’ materials further enhancing thermal insulation.

Architectural works that have been done with polycarbonate panels challenge the idea that homes are ‘stable’ – walls and roofs can move and make better use of light and space. In a fight with climate change and overpopulation, in the future we will need to learn how to make better use of our resources (light, energy, and space), and build meaningful and intelligent spaces, which these panels enable.

“…the species that survives is the one that is able to adapt to and to adjust best to the changing environment in which it finds itself” – Charles Darwin

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Tool: House

STRUC TURED LIVING

Unité d’Habitation de Marseilles Date: 1952 Designer: Le Corbusier Function: Social housing complex

As a result of our human behaviour, we are to be hit by a climate crisis that has triggered rising sea levels and changes to global weather systems and led to social issues. Environmental migration to dry land will become a greater threat to society – but how can we facilitate these displaced populations in the future? We must highlight the importance of future environmental and social adaptation, yet structural solutions to this can be found in contemporary society.

After the Second World War, France was left in a state of dereliction, and its population was displaced. It was shortly after that French-Swiss architect Le Corbusier was commissioned by the French department of Reconstruction and Urbanism to design housing in response to the ongoing social housing crisis.

Completed in 1952, Unité d’Habitation de Marseille stood as an elevated multifunctional social housing complex raised on pillars, consisting of 337 separate units/apartments of 23 different types, spread over 19 floor levels. Apart from living spaces, the building also consists of seven internal ‘street’ levels with a 24-room hotel, shops and communal facilities such as a butcher, chemist, laundry room and a hairdressing salon. The roof terrace serves as a communal space with a gymnasium, pool, open-air theatre and a nursery school. Le Corbusier had constructed a ‘city-within-a city’, functioning as a socially self-supportive community.

Le Corbusier is known for his emphasis on how buildings can be designed so as to cater to human needs, thus eliminating elements that are not deemed functional. These human needs are situated at the centre of the building’s architecture, binding architecture to humans. For this process, Le Corbusier created ‘The Modulor’, a measurement tool that set architectural elements in proportion to human, incorporating ‘a human scale’. By using this notion of functionality and modular building, high-density standardised buildings can be seen as valuable in a future hit by another crisis.

Prefabricated units (apartments) can be slotted into a lattice structure, like a wine bottle into a wine bin, thus simplifying the overall building process.

It is important to acknowledge contemporary artefacts that have value in our future, and how these artefacts can be used to respond to our future needs. While we may not notice it, this style of architecture is already heavily embedded in society. In the UK, buildings such as The Brunswick Centre and the Barbican in London are both examples of high-density ‘megastructures’ raised on pillars and encapsulate a symbiosis of living and leisure through the multifunctionality of the structure. They are both cities within the city of London. Thus, Unité d’Habitation Marseille offers a structural insight into the way of living in a time of crisis.

Warré Beehive Date: 1948 Designer: Émile Warré Function: Beekeeping Beehives serve several purposes such as production of honey, pollination of nearby crops, housing supply bees for apitherapy treatment, and trying to mitigate the effects of colony collapse disorder.

The earliest recognizably modern designs of beehive boxes were in the 19th Century, though they were perfected from intermediate stages of progress made in the 18th Century.

The Warré hive was created by Émile Warré, a French monk who studied hundreds of hive styles and settled on the best design for both the bees and their beekeepers. He was not fond of the usual invasive micromanagement of individual frames and combs as practiced by most beekeepers at the time. He found it more efficient to manipulate the hive box by box, only a couple of times a year, rather than comb by comb every couple of weeks.

This is a part of a beekeeping philosophy that corresponds with Warré hives, and it is a shift from the common practices used today. Less bothering of bees means more productivity and reduced disturbance to the colony. The beehive box also provides a shelter for the bees from the weather as well as ventilation necessary for their colonies’ temperature.

The Warré hives have been used since 2008 and people have found them to be the best of any hive design. The design is focused on simplicity and functionality. The most important part is that it mimics the honeybees’ ideal environment. It’s especially suitable for beekeepers who are looking for a low cost and low maintenance hive design. It is a vertically stacking top bar hive that incorporates a natural comb and the retention of nest scent and heat.

Bees are important to the economy because without them farmers have to pay around £2 billion a year to pollinate crops. In a world, without bees, our food would cost a lot more to produce which would impact the economy. Farmers are dependent on bees as their primary pollinators – it takes more than just basic sunshine, soil water and fresh air to make the environment fruitful. They also help build homes for millions of other insects and animals. If bees disappear, the animals that depend on these plants for survival will vanish as well.

Climate change causes some flowers to bloom earlier or later than they are supposed to. This leaves bees with less food sources at the start of the season. They suffer from habitat loss, lack of farms, and lack of bee-friendly flowers. This has resulted in global bee population decline. Therefore, the beehive box is an important artefact, which is just as crucial for ecology and agriculture now as it will be in the future.

The honey that is made is also beneficial as a nutritional and medicinal substance. It has antibacterial properties, modern medicine has managed to find uses for honey in treating infections and wounds and relieving cough symptoms. I believe we should all do our part in saving bees from extinction. For example, those who have spaces can put beehive boxes in their backyards or on their balconies and rooftops, or the simple act of buying natural honey from a certified brand or from your local apiarist.

Fresh food and air are vital for all – beekeepers and bees are nature’s heroes and the beehive box is a safe and deserving home.

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Tool: Harness

“If the bees disappear from the surface of the earth man would have no more than four years to live.”

–Maurice Maeterlinck

N–Type IBC Solar Panel

For source image credits see page 28

“Every 24 hours, enough sunlight touches the Earth to provide the energy for the entire planet for 24 years.” – Martha Maeda

Date: 2016 Designer: IBC Solar Function: To harness solar energy The purpose of solar panels is to receive energy from sunlight to convert into electricity. This is more environmentallyfriendly than fossil fuels as the sun is a renewable energy source that does not produce harmful greenhouse gases.

Solar panels can be used by anyone, but are specifically

useful for those seeking sustainable electricity and reduced energy costs.

The N–Type IBC Solar Panel is the most significant to date. IBC stands for ‘Interdigitated Back Contact’, which means that the solar panel has more access to absorbing sunlight due to the energy conversion occurring at the back, (instead of the front like older models) and which prevents any shadows coming from the metal grids and

effecting the efficiency and reliability.

Also, as the N–Type solar cells contain phosphorus they are immune to the defects of oxygen-based versions.

Furthermore, their design means that they are also safe from LID (Light-Induced Degradation).

According to an article from World Forum Annual Meeting, the prices of solar panels have decreased over the last ten years. This may

suggest a growth in the solar energy sector and a likelihood, that many people will turn to solar panels in the future as they become a cheaper and more accessible option.

Renewable energy will play a significant role in the future as fossil fuels continue to deplete. This artefact is important for environmental wellbeing, as it helps to reduce the immense carbon dioxide emissions contributing to both pollution and global warming.

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Tool: Harness

RENEWABLE

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Tool: Harness

Liter of Night Light “It’s not just light, it’s a movement.”–Illac Diaz, Founder of the Liter of Light Foundation

Date: 2002 (modified 2013) Inventor: Alfredo Moser (modified by the Liter of Light Foundation) Function: An light source for areas with limited electricity Liter of Night Light is an ecological, solar-powered alternative to conventional light bulbs. A one-liter soda bottle is filled with water and bleach which allows for sunlight to refract thereby spreading light to its surroundings. During the day the solar panel charges a battery which allows the LED in the bottle to be fully functional at night or when there is reduced sunlight.

Liter of Night Light is the first step to a process of creating a ‘hyper-localised production’ of solar energy in impoverished regions around the world – namely, the Philippines, Madagascar, South Africa, Brazil, Samoa, and many more.

The device allows these communities to save the money they would otherwise use for buying kerosene or lamp oil, an expenditure that can consume up to 30–35% of these individuals’ daily earnings. This saved money can then be spent on other necessities or invested in other programs that the foundation offers.

Liter of Night Light’s design and the Foundation’s efforts to make this device one that is easily repairable with parts and tools available locally allows for this to be a catalyst

that creates a circular economy in the communities where it is introduced. This then allows these communities to develop with consciousness of how their progress may affect others and the environment.

Furthermore, this artefact also serves as an example of how to sustainably undertake world issues such as inequality and poverty by emphasising the need to shift philanthropic models from ones focused on donations and temporary solutions to ones that “give power to the people” whereby initiatives are sustainable without further aid from the organisations that introduced the processes and technologies.

In 2050, there is no doubt that many of the wicked problems we have created will continue to exist. Liter of Night Light will serve as an example of how we must deal with these challenges – with concern to sustainability, circularity, and empathy. To truly make lives better, we must empower each other just as this artefact has empowered victims of the poverty cycle and inequality to take charge of their futures.

Liter of Night Light is a catalyst whose design and story can inspire future generations to not just find a solution but create long-lasting and effective ones.

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Tool: Create

DSLR Camera Date: 2013 Designer: Nikon Function: To capture images Fundamentally, a camera is an object that is used to record images through photographs or videos. Mechanically speaking, they function by redirecting light rays through a glass lens and aiming them at a meeting point (such as a digital sensor or piece of film), to produce a sharp image.

The camera has given everybody a platform; people can present and visualise their way of seeing to others. The beauty of an individual’s work is that it expresses their own beliefs or interests, blurring the boundaries between the act of documentation and creating a piece of art to be viewed or questioned.

Documentary and reportage photography from the1820s onwards have helped to capture historical events, changes in the environment and different cultures through imagery.

Examples such as ‘Migrant Mother’ by Dorothea Lange (of the Great Depression in 1930s America) have been crowned as iconic. Photojournalism has proved to be a key element in recording the world’s progression, it is highly influential on consumers and can be used to spread both positive and negative messages. Political parties, media channels and distributors can often use photographers to produce biased work and content, which is sadly saturating and defiling the community – the paparazzi is now seen as the enemy due to privacy invasion, therefore potentially tarnishing the authenticity of creative photographers. There have been laws put in place that demonstrate the rights and rules for a photographer to follow regarding ownership, surveillance and public privacy.

This helps to protect both the subjects and the practitioner in the eyes of the law, keeping the act of photography safe, both professionally and recreationally.

Figuratively, the artefact is a camera. Specifically, the Nikon D5300 DSLR, which is a good quality, low cost, reliable model. This product can withstand the test of time due to the versatility of effects and functions that come with it – you can change internal features such as modes (Auto, Aperture, Manual, Shutter etc…), switch lenses and flashes. With high pixel rates, sensors and depths of fields, a DSLR is a playground for both professionals and amateurs to tell their own stories that last the test of time by being able to print physical copies of images and save them digitally.

With the first introduction in

“My desire is to preserve the sense of people’s lives, to endow them with the strength and beauty I see in them. I want the people in my pictures to stare back.” – Nan Goldin

BRIGHT IDEAS

the 1600s through the pinhole ‘Camera Obscura’, technology has made a tremendous leap in the form of capturing the world by putting cameras straight at our fingertips, via digital cameras and everyday smart phones. With phone cameras, social media was born and has been obsessed over ever since, allowing people all over the world to connect and share their photographic lives online.

Having one billion active users on Instagram alone, this has created a platform for creators, artists and casual users to share and promote their work within a matter of seconds.

Viewing other people’s photographs has become a common part of everyday, 21st Century culture.

For many years, the camera has framed our past, present and future, through human

expression and the way an individual chooses to reveal themselves. It even catalysed the Modern Art Movement to delve into more expressive art-forms.

Recent developments are becoming more immense with the presence of drones, action Go-Pros and facial recognition technology – not only do cameras possess artistic function, but they can now replace humans.

The ‘digital eye’ of the camera continues to evolve, adapting to what people desire, whether that be art, fame or time. We are left questioning – what could camera technology be used for next? With our current reliance, will we ever need our naked eye again?

Flames Shoes Date: 2015 Designers: Zaha Hadid and Unite Nude Function: Concept footware An environmental benefit of 3D printing is the ability to print items from anywhere, even in your home. This could significantly reduce the need to transport items and therefore lower emissions. The material used for 3D printing is probably the most important aspect when talking about its sustainability, and in recent years, there have been efforts to develop 3D printer material from recycled plastic.

In 2014, Reichardt highlighted how 3D printing bridges the gap between place of consumption and place of manufacturing. Big companies

can spend vast amounts of money each year on transportation costs. Firstly, it reduces waste. Unlike subtractive manufacturing, 3D printing uses only the material it needs as it creates by adding layers. In addition, it can reuse plastic waste by converting it to printing filament thus creating new products, such as the OWA filament range.

Flames Shoes by Zaha Hadid give us a perspective on how 3D printing changes the future. The shoes mimic the flickering light of fire, the flame-like bands rise upwards from the heel to gently embrace

the foot. The sculptural sensibility and experimentation of Hadid’s architectural language and United Nude’s expertise in manufacturing, the most innovative designs, has lead to a shoe which holds the essence of fire: delicate and ephemeral, yet compelling and dynamic.

This insertion of 3D printed design into mainstream discourse is an important development for design history and theory, as it potentially enables an increasing public comprehension of the profound significance of this process within design.

3D printing is not only a diverse set of developing technologies, it is also a social phenomenon. The past five years have seen a surge of “futuring” activity and widespread public attention on 3D printing. Three influential factors have been identified: the maker-as-entrepreneur; the economic revival of the nation state; and commonsbased utopias.

These imagined futures share an important aspect – an increased awareness of design, making, and production.

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Tool: Imagine

“Forget shopping, soon we will be able to download our clothes.” – Danit Peleg

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Tool: Imagine

Dalí Flower Spoon The Dalí Flower Spoon created by Salvador Dalí is part of an exquisite cutlery set made in the 1950s using silver-gilt and enamel materials.”. This spoon recalls natural motifs, and more specifically the silhouette of a flower.

Date: 1957 Inventor: Salvador Dalí Function: Part of an Art Nouveau cutlery set

Looking back in history, especially among nobles and aristocrats, there was a real purpose to create and desire to have preciousness in the most ordinary of things, in order to prove the heritage of wealth and prestige. As a consequence, cutlery needed to be as expensive and extravagant as the meals that were consumed using them. Nevertheless, as the social and political context changed with time and moved towards a democratic society, ornate possessions were less fashionable.

Instead, a more minimalistic approach seemed to be what appealed to the contemporary eye.

Whilst it is likely that this minimalistic imprint will still be present and active in the future, especially with the role that technology plays in our lives. Nowadays when ‘ordinary’ and ‘artistic’ meet as they do in this artefact, it is no longer to demonstrate wealth and prestige, but can be seen as an unexpected fusion of art and beauty.

Stainless Steel Straw The invention of drinking straws may be regarded as a simple accomplishment but it is actually evidence of how human beings are capable of coming up with brilliant ideas that can facilitate our daily routines. Also, their widespread use across the world makes us reflect on the extent to which human activity can impact the ecosystem.

In the 1960s, renewable straws made of paper were replaced with the new oil-based, disposable ones. Every single plastic straw created since then still exists today. Plastics take centuries to decompose, and furthermore, during this incredibly long time, they break down into smaller pieces – called microplastics and nanoplastics – which enter our food chain. Basically, we end up eating the plastic that we have produced.

In this scenario, the stainless steel straw is a great solution; it lasts for a long time without becoming soggy or breaking apart; it preserves the aroma and flavours of drinks; it does not compromise health and nutrition; and last but not least, it does not harm the planet.

Plastic straws contribute to around 0.025% of the 8 million tons of plastic thrown into the ocean every year. However, the plastic blight of Anthropocene Epoch can be improved by the use of reusable straws. It is an easy step to start with, an opportunity to inspire others and an outset to begin to safeguard our planet, our home, in a thoughtful way.

Date: 1888 Inventor: Marvin C. Stone (modern drinking straw) Function: Drinking without plastic waste

“We’re Not AntiStraw, We’re Pro Alternatives!”

– For A Strawless Ocean

FLUID

MOBILISING

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Tool: Protect

Safety Syringe Around 3 million needle-stick injuries are recorded globally each year. The Needle Sheilding Safety Syringe was made with the intention of reducing these injuries and fatalities. Once the injection is administered, a metal spring activates a plastic shield that covers the needle. The incorporated safety measure also reduces the unauthorised reuse of needles and creates a less hazardous method of syringe disposal.

Date: 1992 Inventors: Richard J. King and John R. Gordon Function: To reduce the risk of needle-stick injuries

Regarding current worldwide issues (mainly the COVID-19 pandemic, but also viruses such as HIV that can lead to the development of AIDS), the need for syringes to administer vaccinations and medical treatment is global, and issues with accessibility are crucial.

As research continues into cancer treatment, doctors have investigated the ability to inject solutions and use nanotechnology to kill cancer cells in the body. Doctors have developed syringes to deliver higher concentration drugs via intravenous transmission quickly and effectively around the body. By integrating these new procedures with safety syringes, it is possible for patients to easily and safely administer their treatment at home themselves.

“Since 1960, there have been more plastic syringes available than anyone could need. And yet, for the decades since then, WHO has done nothing to stop the spread of vicious diseases that result from the mass re-use of dirty needles.”

– John Rappoport

One of the issues with exposed needles from syringes is the unauthorised reuse for drug use which can lead to the transmission of viruses such as Hepatitis and HIV. Today there are more comprehensive and safe ways of teaching people not to reuse and share needles. Syringe drops have been increasingly popular in national and state-wide programs in the USA since the 1980s.

These have been a way for people to safely dispose of needles and syringes and receive help from people running the drops.

By introducing safety syringes, the reuse of needles is prevented; when incorporated with safe syringe disposal units and nonjudgemental education, this can lead to a decrease in cases of transmissions.

The Needle Sheilding Safety Syringe is an important part of our future. We have seen the devastating effects of COVID-19 in the last year, and a pandemic of this scale could happen again at any time. As vaccines are distributed, many people in various medical roles will be administering them, and their safety is paramount.

By using a safety syringe, there is less likelihood of crosscontamination through needle-stick injuries when injections are administered, and the containment of the mass waste from syringes will be safer and more manageable.

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Tool: Protect

MASKING NORMAL “… You’ll see others wearing masks as a sartorial sign that they are willing to sacrifice some freedom and comfort for the common good.”

– Liz Bucar

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Tool: Protect

Cotton Face Mask

ITY

Cotton face masks are currently everywhere due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Most online retail stores, influencers and well-known MNCs like Amazon promote and sell this artefact. The fundamental function of a cotton face mask is to inhibit entry of viral and bacterial particles in the air, while preventing onward transmission when worn by an infected person.

There has recently been a lot of debate and concern about the hazardous environmental impact and pollution from disposable face masks. Cotton face masks are a more sustainable solution, firstly because of the mask’s tolerance to washing (without any damage caused to its filter, unlike disposable masks), enabling it to be reused, last longer and avoid landfill.

Secondly, a cotton face mask is low in complexity, which allows the opportunity for people to make it themselves instead of buying it. This concept also promotes recycling, as you can search for your old and unwanted scraps of cotton and put them to use.

Face Mask

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, mask wearing is essential for viral control and has been made mandatory in over 100 countries.

Although Government decisions to enforce mask wearing was taken with public welfare in mind, it nonetheless caused controversy and social division. Whilst many complied with the rules, others felt robbed of their freedom and formed protest groups such as the ‘Anti-maskers’. These groups spread propaganda via social media and meet up to protest. The government’s solution to tackling these protesters was to impose large fines for refusal to adhere to law.

Wearing masks temporarily removed the need to put the economy into the switch on, switch off mode – which required many businesses to open, and close again on short notice.

Small businesses and freelancers were put under great pressure but social distancing rules and use of masks helped these businesses to operate.

The face mask has proved is importance over this past year – it as it played a massive part in social, economic and environmental behaviour. It is now a personal necessity and a mandated accessory which cannot be forgotten. As such, we are all able to relate to face masks on a personal level and recognise its significant value now and into the future.

Date: Early 13th Century / Designer : The Chinese Court Date: 1848 / Designer: Lewis Hassley Date: 1897 / Designer: Paul Berger Date: 1972 / Designer: 3M Function: To help block particles from entering the respiratory system.

Surgical Mask The world’s first masks were invented during the Black Death – two holes near the nostrils of the mask are filled with herbs with the hope that this would purify the air. Fortunately, over centuries of scientific development, major technological breakthroughs have been made in medical and surgical masks.

Surgical and medical masks are an essential part of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). 3M delved into particle protection technology to design and manufacture respirators with a variety of functions – the N95 being the most well know and widely used throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Disposable surgical masks are usually made of non-woven composite materials. They can be described as two or three-tiered structures with plastic nose clips and elastic or inelastic straps to filter out particles and bacteria. They are used to cover the user’s mouth, nose and jaw during non-invasive operations by all kinds of clinical personnel, and provide a certain physical barrier to prevent the direct passage of pathogens, unsanitary substances and particles. Medical protective masks are made of one or more fabrics that can isolate viral aerosols and fluids. They are worn by people in medical facilities who come into contact with the virus material.

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Tool: Protect

“The greatest danger to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.”

– Robert Swan

WASTE TO Seabin V5 Date: 2015 / Designer: Pete Ceglinski and Andrew Turton / Function: Floating debris collector Seabin V5 is a floating debris collector installed in marinas and ports. A submersible pump at the bottom sucks litter from its surroundings which is then collected in the mesh bag inside the bin. Water containing surface oil, fuel and detergent is filtered and clean water is pumped back to the sea. It is connected to an energy supply, and screwed to a wall of the docks suspended by a stainless steel post.

Seabin is made from all recycled and sustainable materials and has a mesh bag that on average collects 4kg of debris a day. The main items

captured include bottles, bags, cups, cigarettes and most importantly microplastics which are the hardest for humans to capture.

It was created by two Australians who observed the increase in plastics and pollution in the ocean and were passionate about addressing and raising awareness of this.

One of the key attributes is that this debris collector works 24/7 and it needs little maintenance, to empty them. Its recycled materials help minimise landfill pollution. It also has many technological innovations planned for the future, such

as using renewable or solarpowered energy enabling them to work autonomously in the open sea.

This product is targeted at port or marina authorities and organisations, however in many cases it has been sourced via crowd-funding. The cost of one Seabin is about £3,000, and has a running cost of £2.50 per day. There are 860 Seabins in operation today in 52 different countries.

Seabin also runs an educational project to encourage younger generations to reduce their plastic consumption, design new technologies and

take care of the environment.

It is vital to teach the future generation about excessive consumption as they will need to adapt to the coming times where zero waste will be needed.

This award-winning artefact is helping us in the present, but will also play a key role in the future –cleaning and maintaining our oceans.

19/Communication:

Provoke

A trio of artefacts with an intention to engage audiences. These items reach past information exchange to utilise emotive and provocative modes of messaging. “ ...there could be more plastics than fish in the ocean (by weight) by 2050.”

– Ellen MacArthur Foundation

WARDROBE Sustainable Coat Date: 2019 / Designer: Ecoalf Capsule Collection, Ana Gimeno / Function: Utilising waste as garment Ecoalf is a fashion brand that produces garments out of 100% recycled materials, creating zero new waste, and taking advantage of discarded items and materials. Existing waste such as plastic, fishing nets, tires, coffee grounds, and discarded fabrics are transformed into recycled polyester, nylon, cotton, and wool. In addition, they prioritise sustainable clothing production and manufacturing by avoiding chemical dying and extensive transportation.

They are one of a few brands within their industry with this focus and ethos. The message

on the coat shows their commitment to social and political climate movements.

Currently, fast-fashion feeds consumer demand, but its unsustainable methods make it the second most polluting industry in the world.

Preserving this artefact for the future, will hopefully have a positive impact on ecology, by being a great example of reusing polluting waste, as a resource to form clothing.

The garments’ prices are above average, as 10% of the product sales coming from the ‘Because there is no planet B’ collection are donated to the

Ecoalf Foundation to support their ‘Upcycling the Oceans’ project, in which fishermen collect waste and debris from the water.

There is a need for a solution to address the huge problem of plastic within the oceans. Sharing this artefact in 2050 will inspire designers to find a way to utilise waste and turn it into something functional and desirable.

Garments cover and protect the body from the elements and are key to human survival. There is no knowledge of how the future climate will be (in reaction to

different events), but clothing will continue to be a necessity – providing a hygienic barrier, keeping infectious and toxic materials away from the body; and even providing protection from ultraviolet radiation.

This coat will be both a practical and desirable garment for the future – helping the environment recover from pollution and protecting humankind.

“I don’t think it makes sense to play safe in these times. The world needs fantasy, not reality. We have enough reality today.”

– Alexander McQueen

Bumster Skirt The Bumster skirt was created in 1995 by designer Alexander McQueen as a re-edition of the original pattern. The low cut style of the skirt was inspired by the ‘builder’s butt’, displayed when bending over. McQueen intentionally uses irony by celebrating this through high fashion.

Anti-fashion is a way of exhibiting idiosyncrasy, so the Bumster skirt can be categorised as an anti-fashion product. It is much more than a piece of clothing as it intentionally challenges the notion of perfection in fashion.

Despite the sharp tailoring and the way the skirt elongates the body, it is also equally unnerving, awkward and provocative which links to themes in McQueen’s work that explore the male gaze and sexual harassment.

How might this artefact be of value in the future? Aldous Huxley depicts a future utopia in his book ‘Brave New World’ where no violence, poverty or inequality exists. However, human rights and freedom do not exist either. If this is the future, then the spirit of rebellion this skirt represents would be extremely unique.

On the other hand, if the future becomes dominated by artificial intelligence, biotechnology and automation (as trends suggest), perhaps this item will have value because it is made by hand. Handmade clothes will be replaced by 3D printers and adaptable, wearable technology will replace traditional making. Whichever outcome, the bold design of the Bumster Skirt will continue to be a controversial fashion item in the future.

Date: 1995 Designer: AlexanderMcQueen Function: Provocative garment

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Communication: Provoke

ARTEFACTS IN PROTEST

21/

Communication: Provoke

Climate Crisis Protest Poster We live in a world riddled with chaos. Greedy politicians, melting ice caps and a global pandemic are examples of the catastrophic era we seem to have found ourselves in.

However, the present cannot be solely characterised by disaster. Today’s world contains something which our future world may not – the prospect of change. There are eleven years until the effects of climate change are irreversible. Eleven years to invoke radical change. Eleven years to save the planet. The present is thus characterised by a great sense of urgency.

Our last grain of hope.

A climate crisis protest poster is the physical manifestation of three sentiments which reflect our time: it is a symbol of disaster, a symbol of urgency, and a symbol of hope. A climate crisis protest poster is, quite literally, a sign of our times.

On 20 September 2019, a Climate Strike took place across South Africa. This poster was held up before the South African parliament begging for change. This poster speaks of its context, a time where children must plead for their future to world leaders and a time when the point of no-return draws closer.

There are two variations of the 2050 in which this poster will be viewed. A future saved by environmental reform, or a future doomed by the past.

Either way, this artefact will be significant as it is symbolic of the urgency with which the planet’s youth sought change.

It will either be viewed with admiration, or it will be viewed with tragic irony.

Date: 2019 Designer: Young activist Function: To spread environmental awareness

“You must unite behind the science.

You must take action. You must do the impossible. Because giving up can never ever be an option.”– Greta Thunberg

22/Symbol:

(People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) sued Hermès skin suppliers’ farms in Texas and Zimbabwe for killing alligators.

They also published secretly recorded videos from the farms which resulted in the Hermès stock price drop.

Despite this, the Birkin bag survives and exists as a symbol of aspirational luxury.

Its future growth potential is immeasurable due to its continued desirability, rising consumerism, internet culture, fashion trends and social media influencers.

Represent

The Birkin is a handbag designed and manufactured

by Hermès. The bag was designed in 1984 by Jean-Louis Dumas (using crocodile skin) and is inspired by the singer Jane Birkin. Each bag has the year engraved on the belt buckle emphasizing the artefact’s uniqueness.

As a brand Hermès focus on four key words: production, innovation, exhibition and store. However, with the rise of enviromental and social awareness, some questionable processes have come to light regarding materials and production processes. The manufacture of Hermès products is undertaken by skilled experts who craft each bag by hand. In 2015, PETA

A cluster of artefacts tasked with representing socio-economic aspects of the world, that explore value via complex and nuanced tokens, status and iconography.

Birkin Bag

Date: 1984 Designer: Hermès, Jean-Louis Dumas Function: To carry items and accessorise

PLEASURE O Rockstud Patent Heels Originating in 15th Century Venice, high-heels were first worn by men to show their power. Back then they were called ‘soft wood deep sole shoes’ and were approximately 7–8 inches tall.

The Rockstud Patent Heels were launched by fashion house Valentino 10 years ago and have sold out each season, despite costing between £145 and £650 (for a highly embellished pair).

The rockstud theme links to Gothic and punk styles, and the metal shapes reflect light like a prism. Their design has inspired other companies to mimic the shoe and create associated accessories.

These shoes hold value among social media users and influencers, and are often worn on the read carpet or by celebrities. Model Gigi Hadid and socialite Kim Kardashian

ignited a trend by wearing Rockstud Patent Heels in 2014/15. The trend continues to this day.

Whilst these high heels look elegant, we must acknowledge that they are expensive to purchase and may cause pain due to the entire weight of the wearer’s body shifting and becoming concentrated on the balls of the feet.

However, Valentino is a trusted brand. The group has strong corporate responsibility and fair tax contributions.

In summary, the Valentino Rockstud Patent Heels are fashionable and have an emotional value that goes beyond function. They communicate style, personality, confidence, and glamour.

Date: 2010 Designer: Valentino Garavani Function: Footwear

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Symbol: Represent

Lotus Bag How do we define a tote bag?

Is it an everyday necessity, an accessory, a social statement, or a sign of a good taste?

Let us look at this artefact in more detail.

People started using bags similar to the Lotus bag a very long time ago. Prototypes of such bags can be traced back to as early as the 17th Century.

Since the middle of the 20th Century, tote bags have played a significant role in fashion.

Over time, their purpose has changed fundamentally, from wood carrying to stating political views, from holding groceries to advertising.

Thamon is a London-based brand that has created a new alternative material for tote

bags. The company started making bags and other accessories such as wallets, cardholders and briefcases out of natural materials and uses plant leaves to produce its goods. Thamon created a bag that combines good design and quality, and which is absolutely safe for the environment. Its ‘Lotus’ bag is vegan and made from dried and pressed lotus leaves.

Even though nowadays the main function of a tote bag is to substitute plastic bags, they are still not eco-friendly. Most of them are made out of cotton which makes them almost as dangerous to the environment as plastic goods due to the water consumption and

pesticides involved in their production: 10,000 litres of water are required to produce 1 kilogram of cotton. Cotton production also blows pesticide-laden dust into the air which increases the risk of throat cancer.

Nowadays, tote bags serve not only practical purposes but also display various messages the wearers believe in. The Lotus bag, however, is not decorated with any print, its natural texture speaks for itself. It is easy to tell the bag is made out of plant material.

Lotus bag is a social statement that doesn’t need words.

Although tote bags were designed to carry items from the shop, the world has

changed, and more and more people now choose to shop online. It is possible that the common shopping bag will soon disappear due to a lack of necessity. However, there will always be a demand for fashionable items, and since the design of the Lotus bag has a classic style, it will remain trendy for years to come.

Moreover, it is sustainable and environmentally friendly which makes it a brilliant substitute for resource-heavy or polluting options. Safe and non-global manufacturing, natural materials, good design, and affordability make the Lotus bag an artefact of value.

Date: 2014 Designer: Thamon Function: To carry items and accessorise

R RESPONSIBILITY “As consumers, we have so much power to change the world by just being careful in what we buy.”

– Emma Watson

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Symbol: Represent

“African print is literally our first point of contact to our culture as Africans because when we are born we are wrapped in a wax print.

It is a major part of every African’s heritage...” – Belinda Compah-Keyeke Ankara Ankara is a wax-printed and dyed cotton cloth that is sold mainly in Central and West Africa. The moon and tall gold plant in this image is called ‘Grotto’ and symbolises women’s love and demand for social recognition. Ankara can be used for garments and furnishings, though both traditional and symbolic meanings are factors in deciding its function.

Furthermore, Ankara has value for the future, primarily due to its political and societal uses. Ankara is worn by politicians to display national pride: Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo wears Ankara shirts when making public appearances and Ghana’s first president Kwame Nkrumah had a design dedicated to him called ‘Nkrumah’s Pencil’, as he was notorious for planning his powerful speeches with a simple pencil. Wearing Ankara can also be a political statement within civil rights movements, it was worn to show pride in black heritage.

Ankara is sustainable as it is made using natural raw materials such as wax and food dyes. It can also be recycled / upcycled to make new pieces of clothing, furnishing, artwork and carnival costumes.

Date: 1800s Designers: African women (technique derived from Indonesian batik) Function: Textile

Nike Air Mag With a constantly changing world leaning towards an environmental disaster, the Nike Air Mag is a perfect metaphor for the dangers of desire-driven consumption and collection. The Nike Air Mag was first seen as a futuristic self-lacing sneaker in the 1985 film ‘Back to the Future’.

As of the year 2020, about 300 million people do not have access to footwear. In 2011 Nike decided to release the sneakers as a limited drop of 1,500 pairs. To purchase a new or slightly used pair would now cost around $33,000 (£23,500).

This artefact therefore represents a cautionary tale about the dangers of overindulgence and exclusivity. Collections and special versions of pre-existing products have become popular all over the world. Whilst previously, luxury was focused on high-end materials and brand names, this ‘releases’ approach is about raising exclusivity (and price) due to limited availability.

Obsessive sneaker collecting takes consumerism to an extreme level and the Nike Air Mag’s desirability perfectly encapsulates this. Our future planet and society will not be able to support such indulgence and decadence. We should learn from this for the betterment of our environment and mental health.

Date: Concept 1989 / Manufcatured 2011 Designers: Tiffanny Beers and Nike Function: Self-lacing sneaker

“Every increased possession loads us with a new weariness.”

– John Ruskin

Penny Black The Penny Black was the world’s first postage stamp invented in 1840 by an English inventor, Sir Rowland Hill. The world’s first adhesive stamp marked a postal system revolution by creating an efficient service for the public. Many countries later followed and adapted the postage stamp system which sparked a global communication revolution.

The Penny Black holds historic value as it changed the way people connected. The British postal system, (Royal Mail) was originally only used for sending royal and government communications, but in 1635 Charles I made the service available to the public. Letters were previously charged by the number of sheets of paper used, and the recipient was expected to pay for this which often resulted in refusal. The service was unreliable and unavailable to many, due to its expense. Hill and his stamp creation, dramatically changed this.

According to Royal Mail when the Penny Black system was invented there was a sudden increase of paid letters being sent, from 76 million in 1840 to 350 million by 1850, which demonstrates the transformation that ocurred. Written communication was now accessible for all – from migrants wanting to connect to family members and everyday people wishing to send private and confidential information globally and locally.

Date: 1840 Inventor: Sir Rowland Hill Function: Payment for postage

“I think that if the Postal Service dies, it will be the end of democracy as we know it.”

–Shiva Ayyadurai

25/

Symbol: Exchange

HIDDEN VALUE

26/

Symbol: Exchange

“The new £20 note is deemed to be the most secure banknote to date.”

– The Bank of England £20 Banknote The new polymer £20 note was released on 20 February 2020.

Queen Elizabeth’s picture is on the front, JMW Turner (and his famous drawing ‘Fighting Temeraire’) is featured on the back.

Cash, like the plastic £20 note, is very important in our every day life despite being used less frequently than in the past due the development of online transactions. Cash payment still remains the most common method of payment in many countries around the world, especially when paying for small amounts. It may also be considered safer than online payments where criminal activity is a greater possibility. There is also no internet system where safety is guaranteed, for example, hackers can always gain access to user passwords putting finances at risk. However, in a digitised society and with the pressures of COVID-19 encouraging electronic payments, the existence of banknotes is now being questioned.

Banknotes were invented in 600BC by King Alyattes. Today they are primarily issued by national central banks. Banknotes are a powerful symbol of the history, culture, and sovereignty of a nation.

When designing a banknote, one has to take into consideration how the banknote will be stored, processed, distributed, and used to determine how they will be produced and what security features need to be included to combat counterfeiters.

In recent times, polymer banknotes have become increasingly popular. According to a study made by the Bank of England, polymer banknotes last around 2.5 times longer increasing reuse and reducing waste. When paper notes go out of use, they are returned back to the Bank of England, where they are pulverised and composted whereas polymer notes are melted and recycled mechanically into other objects.

The overall environmental impact of banknotes versus electronic means of payment is not yet known. There is a rising demand for a cashless society and although moving toward a completely digital system has its conveniences, not everyone has access to the necessary technologies internet-banking hence would exclude certain individuals.

In conclusion, while digital payment has its merits and will probably increase over time, we believe banknotes will continue to exist because of their inclusiveness. The new £20 note with its recyclable and eco-friendly attributes, as well as its complex and secure design, ensures that banknotes will survive into the future.

Date : 2020 / Designer: Bank of England / Function: United Kingdom Currency

27/

Symbol: Exchange

PLASTIC QUEENS

Whimsical Playing Cards With the rise of digital and social media, more people are turning to technology for entertainment and communication – contributing to a change in the way society connects and engages. Whimsical Playing Cards have become significant, because of that social behavioural change. Cards’ universal language allows people from different cultural backgrounds to play together.

Traditional playing cards, (the ones that evolved in the late 15th Century in France), use four suits. In the Whimsical Play Cards design, Yesilok interpreted the meaning of each symbol to create his own unique icons. Although with these changes, the user is still able to understand the system when it comes to play. The production utilises metallic ink on paper rather than foil stamping, which promotes the sustainable ethos this artefact has.

These playing cards have significance for the future because they can create essential human interaction and cooperation within our blended lifestyles. Through playing with these cards, we can learn culture and values, and to communicate across society.

Date: 2016 / Designer: Okasal Yesilok / Function: Game play and social interaction

“People live in a blended reality involving online worlds and in-person worlds, and these worlds will continue to bleed over into each other more heavily.”

– Mary McFarlane

Contributors STUDENTS COVER: Andrea Concha 02 – 03: REACH THE UNREACHABLE ‘Fibre-Optic Cable’ David Povilaika ‘Planispheric Astrolabe’ Alethea Durman 04 – 05: NAVIGATION, TRAVERSE, MOTION ‘Compass’ Julia Yu ‘Tesla Battery Pack’ Zaver Lakhani 06 – 07: VERSATILITY ‘iPhone 12 Pro’ Maleela Hong ‘Huntsman Wood’ Gavin Ip ‘Multiwall Polycarbonate Panel’ Laura Avedissian

REFERENCES • p1 Papanek, V. (2019) Design for the Real World [Third Edition]. Thames & Hudson Ltd London. pp. 03 – 27: What is Design? A Definition of the Function Complex.

• p2 Liebenau, J., Atkinson, R., Kärrberg, P., Castro, D., Ezell, S. (2009) The UK’s Digital Road to Recovery, available at www. eprints.lse.ac.uk • UK Broadband Impact Study www.assets. publishing.service.gov.uk • Jefferson L. Harris (2014) Fiber Optics and Its Impact on Telecommunications. George Mason University www.mason.gmu.edu • Danielsen, P. (2015) ‘Recycling of fibre optical cables’, Optical Connections, 13 May www.opticalconnectionsnews.com • Alwayn, V. (2004) Optical Network Design and Implementation www.ciscopress.com • Shampo, M. A., Kyle, R. A., Steensma, D. P. (2011) ‘Charles K. Kao—Father of Fiber Optics’, Mayo Clinic Proceedings, August.

Available at: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov • Parliament. House of Commons (2020) Full-fibre broadband in the UK (r CBP 8392) London: House of Commons Library www.researchbriefings. files.parliament.uk • The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum (2006) OALC4 DA fibre optic submarine cable, 1999 www.collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk • p3 Google Arts & Culture. (2011). 11 Objects that Changed the World – Google Arts & Culture www.artsandculture.google.com/ • Google Books. (2010). Groundbreaking Scientific Experiments, Inventions, and Discoveries of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance www.books.google.co.uk • Astrolabe. (2012). In S.T.S. Al-Hassani & S.T.S. Al-Hassani (Eds.), 1001 inventions: The enduring legacy of muslim civilization. (3rd ed.).

Washington: National Geographic Society www.arts.idm.oclc. org • Chstm.org. (2012). An Introductory History of Astrolabes | Consortium for History of Science, Technology and Medicine www.chstm.org • BBC. (2010). Hebrew Astrolabe www.bbc. co.uk • p4 Dalvey. (2021) Grand Voyager Compass. Available at: www.dalvey.com • National Geographic. (2021) Compass. available at: www.nationalgeographic.org • p5 Almond, J. (2020). Do Electric Cars Produce a lot of Carbon Dioxide (CO2)? www.motorbiscuit.com • Harrabin, R. (2020). Electric car emissions myth “busted.” BBC News www.bbc.co.uk • News, A.B.C. (n.d.). Tesla’s new battery technology could drive down cost of electric cars, company says www.abcnews.go.com • Nickelinstitute.org. 2021. Battle of the batteries – Cost versus Performance | Nickel Institutewww.nickelinstitute.org • Tesla website. How Powerwall Works | Powerwall Support www.tesla. com/ • www.cnbc.com • p6 Apple Inc. (2020). iPhone 12 Pro. Apple.com • Bangkok Post (2020). Parasite Cast at the 2020 SAG Awards. Bangkok Post. • Bryant, K. (2020). Kobe Bryant and Gianna. Instagram • CNN (2020). Beirut Explosion. CNN. • Eisele, J. and Getty Images (2020). Stock Market Charts at the NYSE. Time. • Getty Images (2018). Chadwick Boseman. Elle Magazine. • Harnik, A. and Associated Press (2020). The

14 – 15: MOBILISING FLUID ‘Dalí Flower Spoon’ Martina Appendino ‘Stainless Steel Straw’ Sergio Nepi ‘Safety Syringe’ Ellie Hoon

12 – 13: BRIGHT IDEAS ‘DSLR Camera’ Eleanor Paddock ‘Flames Shoes’ Lizzy Wei

10 – 11: RENEWABLE ‘N–Type IBC Solar Panel’ Imaan Khan ‘Liter of Night Light’ Andrea Concha

08 – 09: STRUCTURED LIVING ‘Unité d’Habitation de Marseilles’ Gemma Holdaway ‘Warré Beehive’ Simona Chobanova

Kingdom (2021) www.victorinox.com • Technical article | Victorinox United Kingdom (2021) www.victorinox.com • Check this out:Huntsman Wood (2021) www.victorinox.com • Swiss Army Knives Product Support | Victorinox Swiss Army (USA) (2021). www.swissarmy.com • 5 Knives that Make a Staunch Companion During Your Snowshoeing Escapades (2019) available at: www.snowshoemag.com • p8 Jenkins, D. (1993) Unité D’Habitation: Marseilles Le Corbusier. Singapore: Phaidon Press Limited • Digital drawing: North-west axonometric view of Unité D’Habitation in Marseilles, based on drawings found in Jenkins (1993) • p9 Digital illustration, Emile Warré. Warré Beehive, (1940). Bee Built (no date) History of Warré Hives www.beebuilt.com • Friends of the Earth (no date) 14 facts you need to know about bees www.friendsoftheearth. uk • p10 Cambridge Dictionary (2021) ‘Definition of artefact from the Cambridge University Press’. www.dictionary. cambridge.org • Pickerel.K . (2018) ‘The difference between n–type and p–type solar cells’ www.solarpowerworldonline. com • Reid.G. (2020) ‘The future looks bright for solar energy’ www.weforum.org • SunPower (2020) ‘What is IBC solar cell technology?’ www.us.sunpower.com • Visuals – iStock (2012) ‘Hot Fiery Sun Stock Photo’ Image used for my visuals available at: www.istockphoto.com • Visuals – Sunshine Solar (2020) ‘Sunshine Solar Panel’ • Image available at: www. sunshinesolar.co.uk • p11 ‘Litre of Light’ Andrea Concha • Diaz, I. (2020) Interview on Litre of Night Light. Interview with Illac Diaz. Interviewed by Andrea Concha • Lang, M. Alfredo Moser: Genie of The Bottle – Believe Earth www.believe.earth • Voyage of Light: Litre of Light Is on A Quest to End Energy Poverty.

Available at: www.literoflight.org • YouTube.com. 2020. How to Build A Solar Bottle Bulb 3.0 • Youtube.com. 2020. Light In A Bottle | Illac Diaz | Tedxmaastricht • YouTube.com. 2020. Liter Of Night Light Instructional Video • p12 ‘DSLR Camera’ Eleanor Paddock • Digital Trends (2013) ‘A Complete History of the Camera Phone’ Simon Hill available at www.digitaltrends.com • Aver (2019) Advances in Camera Technology – Tammy Kao | Available at: www.aver.com • Sentel Tech Security Blog, Legalities of Using a Hidden Camera | Available at: www. senteltechsecurity.com • Earth Times (2012), Digital Cameras Helping Out the Environment – Chris Keenan www.earthtimes. org • YouTube Thinking Tech (2017), Evolution of Cameras, video www.youtube.com • p13 Science Museum Blog (2021).

3D Printing – An Explosion Of Creativity! – Science Museum Blog www.blog.sciencemuseum.org.uk • Medium. (2021). 3D Printing and Its Implications,available at: www.medium.com • Tuvie.com. (2021). Flames Shoes by Zaha Hadid – Tuvie www. tuvie.com • p14 Five magnificent pieces of Salvador Dalì designed homeware, www.somethingcurated.com • Impressionism & Modern Art, www.sothebys.com • Rococo

22 – 23: PLEASURE OR RESPONSIBILITY ‘Birkin Bag’ Zixuan Zhong ‘Rockstud Patent Heels’ Yuxin Chen ‘Lotus Bag’ Olha Korda

20 – 21: ARTEFACTS IN PROTEST ‘Bumster Skirt’ Lisa Zhao ‘Climate Crisis Protest Poster’ Sharoni Novick

18 – 19: WASTE TO WARDROBE ‘Seabin V5’ Carmen Diaz Ortega ‘Sustainable Coat’ María Neira Oliver

16 – 17: MASKING NORMALITY ‘Face Mask’ Metis Zheng ‘Cotton Face Mask’ Anoushka Ahluwalia ‘Surgical Mask’ Julia Neterowicz

Production Assistance: Andrea Concha, Melissa Cryans, Alethea Durman, Gemma Holdaway, Ellie Hoon, Gavin Ip, Olha Korda, Maria Neira, David Povilaika

26 – 27: PLASTIC QUEENS ‘£20 Banknote’ Melissa Cryans & Yue Lou ‘Whimsical Playing Cards’ Aneesah Adat

24 – 25: HIDDEN VALUE ‘Ankara’ Jane Mensah ‘Nike Air Mag’ Jalal Abbassi ‘Penny Black’ Zhiyu Lin

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STAFF

ACADEMIC: Tara Hanrahan, Billy Kiosoglou, Lucia McGuinness, Gregory Messiah, Robert Urquhart

PRINTING & FINISHING: Tony Yard, Scott House

www.theworldcounts.com • p24 Young, P. 2011. Ghanaian Woman and Dutch Wax Prints: The Counter-appropriation of the Foreign and the Local Creating a New Visual Voice of Creative Expression. Columbia University, New York, USA • Enwezor. 2001. Colonial pretence and African resistance, or subversion subvert. In The Short • Century: Independence and Liberation Movements in Africa 1945–1994. edited by Enwezor • 159–162. Prestel Munich, London, New York • Quashie, R. 2017. Wax prints, like Vlisco, are still making believe that they are African www.yen.com.gh • p25 Ltd, A., 2020 www. warwickandwarwick.com • Rmspecialstamps.com. 2020.

Royal Mail Special Stamps www.rmspecialstamps.com • Ons. gov.uk. 2021. Internet Access – Households And Individuals, Great Britain – Office For National Statistics www.ons.gov.uk • Historytoday.com. 2021. The Penny Post Is Delivered | History Today www.historytoday.com • En.wikipedia.org. 2021. Royal Mail www.en.wikipedia.org • p26 Rastogi, N., 2020. Is Cash Better for The Environment Than A Credit Card?, Slate Magazine www.slate.com • Moore, R., 2019. Will the Trees Thank Us for Going Cashless? The Ecologist www.theecologist. org • Bautista, P., 2018. An Economy Without Banknotes: What Will Happen If Cash Is Eliminated? Latinamerican Post www.latinamericanpost.com • Bankofengland.co.uk. 2020.

Banknote Statistics www.bankofengland.co.uk • Peachey, K., 2019. £20 Note: New Design for Britain’s Most-Forged Banknote , BBC News www.bbc.co.uk/news • Bank of England, 2020 www.upload.wikimedia.org • p27 Anderson, J. and Rainie, L. (2010). The future of social relations, Pew Research Center: Internet, Science & Tech www.pewresearch.org • Graphics & Products, Whimsical Playing Arts I — Oksal Yesilok (2014). Oksal Yesilok | Graphics & Products www.oksalyesilok. com • W. Gurney Banham (2010). Playing Cards – History of the Pack and Explanations of Its Many Secrets. Google Books www. books.google.co.uk • The New £20 Note www.bankofengland. co.uk • Why Cash Is so Important? www.gdshenzhen.com

Mask p17/ Cotton Face Mask p17/ Surgical Mask p17/ Seabin V5 p18/ Communication: Sustainable Coat p19/ Bumster Skirt p20/ Climate Crisis Protest Poster p21/ Symbol: Birkin Bag p22/ Rockstud Patent Heels p23/ Lotus Bag p23/Ankara p24/ Nike Air Mag p24/ Penny Black p25/ £20 Banknote p26/ Whimsical Playing Cards p27/ CONTRIBUTORS: David Povilaika, Alethea Durman, Julia Yu, Zaver Lakhani, Maleela Hong, Gavin Ip, Laura Avedissian, Gemma Holdaway, Simona Chobanova, Imaan Khan, Andrea Concha, Eleanor Paddock, Lizzy Wei, Martina Appendino, Sergio Nepi, Ellie Hoon, Metis Zheng, Anoushka Ahluwalia, Julia Neterowicz, Carmen Diaz Ortega, María Neira Oliver, Lisa Zhao, Sharoni Novick, Zixuan Zhong, Yuxin Chen, Olha Korda, Jane Mensah, Jalal Abbassi, Zhiyu Lin, Melissa Cryans & Yue Lou, Aneesah Adat

Mask p17/ Cotton Face Mask p17/ Surgical Mask p17/ Seabin V5 p18/ Communication: Sustainable Coat p19/ Bumster Skirt p20/ Climate Crisis Protest Poster p21/ Symbol: Birkin Bag p22/ Rockstud Patent Heels p23/ Lotus Bag p23/Ankara p24/ Nike Air Mag p24/ Penny Black p25/ £20 Banknote p26/ Whimsical Playing Cards p27/ CONTRIBUTORS: David Povilaika, Alethea Durman, Julia Yu, Zaver Lakhani, Maleela Hong, Gavin Ip, Laura Avedissian, Gemma Holdaway, Simona Chobanova, Imaan Khan, Andrea Concha, Eleanor Paddock, Lizzy Wei, Martina Appendino, Sergio Nepi, Ellie Hoon, Metis Zheng, Anoushka Ahluwalia, Julia Neterowicz, Carmen Diaz Ortega, María Neira Oliver, Lisa Zhao, Sharoni Novick, Zixuan Zhong, Yuxin Chen, Olha Korda, Jane Mensah, Jalal Abbassi, Zhiyu Lin, Melissa Cryans & Yue Lou, Aneesah Adat