David Pye’s article, “The Nature of Design and Aesthetics,” was one of the most interesting articles I have read for this class. Pye boldly proclaims that when it comes to design there are very few limitations that should get in a skilled craftsman/designers way. He says that anything imaginable can be crafted; it is merely a matter of determination and time. He breaks down crafting into specific techniques such as wasting, producing, constructing, and forming. He talks about concepts that we often take for granted and consider to common place for thought.
He brings up several fascinating points about the significant discoveries and techniques developed by humans. One such example of this is man’s “invention” of utilizing flat, squared surfaces for construction. Pye brings up the point that these lines and planes are not an organic or natural occurrence in our environment. This is an idea that few people give any thought to because they have been conditioned to the manmade world in which we live. I think contemplating seemingly mundane ideas such as these can really unearth deep meaning that is often overlooked.
Another excellent topic that Pye explores is the human need for art. He talks about the objective side of design and how its purpose is to reduce or fix the problems we encounter in life. Pye suggests that this is not enough because even if all of our problems are fixed by design we still aren’t “happy” we are merely content because we aren’t miserable. This is where the subjective side of design comes into play. The “art of design” or rather the art in design is what makes people happy.
I felt David Pye had some really excellent and thought provoking points in this article that I plan to take to heart. His optimistic philosophy that anything is possible to make if you can dream it is encouraging and his thoughts on art, design, and the human condition are something I plan to keep in mind and explore more in the future.
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