Q; Is design truly a “universal” language?
JO: It can be – it should be. For me it depends on whether it is merely a formal exercise, or whether it is driven by meaning, content, and sustainability – both for the product itself and for the environment.
Q: Your firm is described as a “solutions-based creative agency weaving technology with branding, graphic, product and interior design”. How does that change your value proposition? Are your employees designers?
JO: Object Agency is solutions-based and we are strategic thinkers. We want to be ahead of our clients and try to understand where they are going and how they can compete better, and to provide a better environment for customers and employees. This means that all aspects of communication are considered, and I include environments in the term ‘communication’, as well as branding and other types of visual or tactile communication.
We are primarily designers, but we come from diverse backgrounds, educations, and experiences, and if need be we bring in other types of expertise to address specific project or client needs.
Q Are designers ‘strategists’?
JO: Designers must be strategists in the new world order. Otherwise we’re simply stylizing and acting as proliferators of an overly commodified culture that produces too much stuff. Being strategic allows us to lead and to collaborate effectively and efficiently.
Q: Do human beings ‘demand’ more of design now, than they did in the past?
JO: I think that we need to differentiate between ‘style’ and ‘design’. I certainly believe that people demand more style in their objects, interiors, and architecture. But in general, the public is better informed about design than ever.
Q: We talked about many of the things that have changed design and sectors where design is causing change…but what won’t change? What is inherent, immutable and consistent about design and designers?
JO: Our undying hope to improve the human condition, and the way our world looks and feels.
Q: What advice would you give to designers, students and emerging professionals?
JO: Travel, draw, photograph, engage people, look at things, touch things, engage the senses, dance, make love. Live.
Q: What (or who) inspires you?
JO: All of the above, and more.