Design for the Anthropocene
Part 5 of the Contextual Studies Lectures.
The Anthropocene is a unit of geological time, in which displays the earth's history of human activity, focusing on that of their negative impact on the planet. So therefore the ‘Design for the Anthropocene’ focuses on projects that either bring attention to the ongoing problem, or set out to fix or slow down the process of such destruction.
It was fascinating to see the true passion and creativity that the designers built into their projects. To try and reverse or hinder the effects of environmental demolition calls for out of the box thinking, such ideas were presented throughout this lecture.
To me, photography is one of the most powerful forms of expression when trying to convince individuals of prospects, I feel justly as people cannot ignore, or show confliction to the facts when faced with them, there is no denying there is a problem.
One of media's most recognised environmental informants would be Sir David Attenborough, he of course expresses his concern and wisdom surrounding the topic through the art of film and photography. Over the years he has made information available to the masses through his multiple documentaries which are broadcasted into our homes. I feel that the program has rose to the success that it has because it gives viewers the inside scoop, offering them a perspective closer than ever before. The direction and motive has viewers holding a gaze hard to tear away, they have no other option but to face facts! Therefore I hold it as one of medias great successors in such a context.
Another example of the power of photography would be that of Justin Hofman, a wildlife photographer.
Though simple, it is affective. To see a so often used cosmetic instrument introduced into an out of place environment is a shock to the subconscious, clearly we can see there is an obvious problem.
As the photographer states “It’s a photo that I wish didn’t exist but now that it does I want everyone to see it,” he wrote on Instagram. “What started as an opportunity to photograph a cute little sea horse turned into one of frustration and sadness as the incoming tide brought with it countless pieces of trash and sewage. This photo serves as an allegory for the current and future state of our oceans.”
The opportunistic resolution of using photography to convey important messages is something I will carry with me moving through my editorial project. I can already imagine the striking imagery I could create to portray the injustices of genders (my chosen topic).
After reviewing what designers are doing to prevent environmental damage, the question was then turned around to the viewers of this lecture. What were we going to do? A range of suggestions were given such as, growing plants, using public transport, buying sustainably, using reusable plastic, recycling. All very simple tasks, I feel people neglect the prospect of the sooner the better. It is never too late to change your habits, it is never too late to educate yourself.
As part of the younger generation we must do everything we can to protect our home, and to the older generation we look to them and ask for empathy, though they might not see the worst effects of climate change in their lives, it will surely be an approaching problem for the generations to come.
