DDF-03:The Object

As a strategy for both expanding comprehension of this broad exercise and as a hedge to ensure completion, we first identify existing primary energetic inputs of knowledge, money, suburbanites etc into this area (which are UDM, Casino, and Slows, somewhat respectively). These arcs establish opportunities to build upon, as they literally and figuratively emit concentric radii of influence. Our existing land use patterns are identified, and clusters, in conjunction with the influence of zones as identified above, we may establish a translucent speculative layer of hospitality, education, agriculture, and commerce. Within this we may point out actual edifices to be brought to the foreground, in conjunction new complementary structures and spaces. This may give rise to a finer detail of cluster and potential foci, to which we may connect back to the original energetic area inputs.

 

DDF-02: An Exhibition of Process.

I repeatedly insist that the master plan site model itself is just a premise for a larger exercise- A canvas onto which the actual inquiry may be projected. That inquiry is the demystification of the design process via community participation. By literally opening the studio doors we may expose the lay community to product- as derived through process.

 

Considering the question “Can design change the world” seriously and rigorously, I would hesitate on the assent regarding the actual products of design, but would be much more willing to affirm the incredible transferable value of the method by which designed objects are developed. Consider the process of design- inherent in this workflow is conflict, conflict resolution, teaching, learning, leadership, humbling, progress, creation, implementation, and so on- This is what we as designers can transfer across domains- this is what we must export in parallel to our finalized outputs if our intentions are to reach beyond creation of object and space.

 

DDF-01: An (pre)Emotive Masterplan For the 2012 Detroit Design festival

As an investigation into the intersection of allied creative fields via exhibition of process, members of Corktown Studios will develop, through research and community/ artist input, an artistically expressive yet functionally implicative masterplan model of the North Corktown Community. Production of the edifice will occur at Corktown Studios over a 19 hour period during the festival (This being a reference to the ‘All-nighter’ project delivery workflow ubiquitous in academic art and design studios). During this production window we invite the design community, as well as spectators, to visit, observe, and contribute to the research and production of the model. We will utilize social media to provide updates and insights into the process, as well as to request and obtain materials and recommendations. We intend to deliver the final product, along with documentation of process (photos, sketches, video) to the final DDF gala event at City Airport for exhibition.

 

http://www.detroitdesignfestival.com/list# 

 

http://blog.detroitdesignfestival.com/press-release-north-corktown-re-envisioned-an-exhibition-of-process/