FORM without Figure

An examination of design at FORMSF14

We’re at a critical juncture where design has been systemically elevated to match engineering’s prowess. As design becomes inextricably engrained in technology, FORM gathered a cross section of designers to discuss with each other more directly the potential implications, without having to reappropriate a web-, graphic design-, or other- conference.

As a critical mass with specific allegiances to design, it was the first opportunity for the Postdigital designer to productively challenge his/her process and design thinking. Yet I was struck by the collective exhaustion of ambitiously applied ambiguity. The range and energy of work felt without charge or agenda; work freed from any passionate or ideological convictions. In a sense, an un-figured motivation backed by incredible talent and skill. Perhaps a symptom that design hasn’t quite passed the threshold of equality with engineering that we then lapse into compliancy. *This is an unshaped criticism, much more introspective than empirical.

Critique, as the designer’s tool by which we derive improvement, was conspicuously absent. Even with the seasoned panelists, the contrarian appeared to be an anomaly, although Joshua Topolsky, Jonathan Lee, and Daniel Burka provided much needed conversational agitation. The topics were relevant and the panelists knowledgable but Postdigital design hasn’t developed a language and discourse to continue conversation beyond the immediate present. It’s still a discipline in its infancy trying to find figurality as a foundation.

In my happy hour brashness, I unfairly described the event as “vanilla,” an indictment on my own inability to realize the implications of such a culturally relevant moment: a gathering of influencers with the capacity to change how we make, transact and communicate on a global scale. I sincerely appreciate Google’s proactive stance and recognizing the shift in design’s needs and ambitions. Upon reflection I gathered a few ideas that came as a result of the event.