2018

publisher: Koenig Books
author(s): Louise Schouwenberg, in collaboration with Hella Jongerius
graphic design: Irma Boom Office

In this book, design theorist Louise Schouwenberg and Hella Jongerius examine the meaning and agency of objects, exploring how things act as mediators between people and the world both in everyday life and in the context of the museum. As technology continues to change these relationships, Schouwenberg and Jongerius thoughtfully consider the agency of our objects. Questioning the market’s obsession with novelty in design, the authors try to develop criteria for recognizing true cultural innovation. What distinguishes novelty for the sake of novelty from something truly new?