Definitions for and the distinction between design and art were established in the 18th century. Since then, design has been understood as a tool for solving problems—something pragmatic and useful. But how useful? What is the main function of design? Is it merely a tool? Does it make sense to say design is “too useful”?
In this dialogue, graphic designer and book-lover Renatus Wu Cheuk Pan and designer-turn-philosopher Li Hong Ting discuss what design really is when closely scrutinised through the perspectives of books, philosophy and design itself. The salon will be moderated by Adonian Chan and Chris Tsui, respectively co-curator of deTour 2021 and co-founder of Trilingua Design. Join them in their attempt to redefine design and its use(fu)less.