From furs to dyes to plastics, materials are the DNA of a design, weaving

together politics, economy, culture, and ecology. Each week we will focus

on a specific material to understand and explore its unique role. Over the

semester, we will address natural materials with origins in plants animals,

and minerals, interrogate synthetics, and speculate about new material

innovations. Throughout we will be asking “Who and what is impacted by

material extraction and use? What are the externalities? Who bears the

cost of production and who benefits?” By examining the context in which

materials rise to prominence we will explore how trends, trade, and

ecosystems are shaped by materials. Just as a chef's ingredients

determine the quality of the food, it is critical to consider what and how

materials form a design. Students will be expected to respond to readings,

video, and visual archives, participate in class discussions, and create two

dynamic presentations.