Design 2

Synopsis

The DVD features six 26-minute programmes from the second DESIGN series that places the art of design in its sociological and technological context. The programmes tell the story of the 20th century through six industrial objects that have become icons, reflecting their time whilst at the same time reflecting the future.

The object covered are: 1) THE BOOKWORMBOOKSHELF. The Bookworm Bookshelf, created by Ron Arad is a rare example of supple form and curve line in book storage. It is an emblematic design object of the XXth Century. The Bookworm prompts us to reflect on the basic question - what role do bookshelves and books play in our lives?; 2) CONCORDE. In 1967, Concorde was the symbol of real collaboration between scientists, engineers, designers, and stylists, who all participated in this extraordinary industrial adventure, which permitted passengers to travel twice as fast as the speed of sound, in a modern, aesthetically pleasing, and luxurious environment; 3)THE CAFETIERE COFFEE-MAKER. Aldo Rossi designed the Conica coffeemaker for Alessi in 1984 as "a miniature monument" of our "domestic landscape". The cheap aluminium of the after-war period, the Bakelite handle and the hexagonal sides of the classical Italian coffeemaker are gone - the Conica is a cylindrical stainless steel, mirror-smooth tower; 4) THE LEICA CAMERA. Designed in 1914, the Leica is a unique object in the history of Design on account of its long life. A wonderfully innovative object, it played a role in the creation of a radically new vision of the world - that of photojournalism; 5) THE LOUNGE CHAIR. Created in 1956 by the couple Charles and Ray Eames, the Lounge Chair became the symbol of the economic boom of the 1950s, and of people’s aspiration to a state of comfort and relaxation procured by nonchalantly using the footrest. Made famous by Billy Wilder, it has never gone out of fashion; 6) THE VESPA SCOOTER. Designed in Italy after the war, the Vespa met with immediate success - it was safe and economical, and Italians fell in love with its curvaceous shape. More than an industrial item, the Vespa became the symbol of Italian renewal, and was turned into a star by cinema.

Language

English

Country

France

Year of release

2008

Year of production

2007

Subjects

Design; Technology

Keywords

history of technology; industrial design; product design; social history

Distribution Formats

Type

DVD

Format

Region 2 PAL

Price

£24.99

Availability

Sale

Duration/Size

160 minutes

Year

2008

Production Company

Name

ARTE France

Email

http://www.arteboutique.com/inputContact.action

Web

http://boutique.arte.tv/ External site opens in new window

Address

STACI
ARTE Boutique 1610
B.P. 59124 - 95074 Cergy Pontoise
France

Notes

An extensive range of programmes broadcast on the French Arte channel, relating to art and culture. Most are only available in French, but some have English audio or subtitles. Sale on Region 2 PAL DVD.

Distributor

Name

Quantum Leap

Notes

The company ceased trading in 2018. It was previously a distributor and online retailer specialising in non-fiction DVD titles on a wide variety of subjects, particularly in the areas of music instruction, music performance, sport instruction, and health. Some titles also available through retail outlets.

 

Available from retail outlets