Editorial. Design and Cultural Diversity

Astrid Skjerven

doi:10.7577/formakademisk.3102

Abstract

By raising the theme of Design and Cultural Diversity in this special issue of FormAkademisk we hope to stimulate a broad cross disciplinary discussion on the interplay of cultures within the field of design and design education. The main dimensions of the topic might be summarized as: - The dimensions and meanings of cultural diversity- Politics and power- Transmission and transition of cultures- Heritage and innovation- Indigenous and vernacular traditions versus fashion and euro-centered attitudes- Design and learning approaches These matters are complex, deeply interwoven and interdependent. This series of articles discusses how design might support an innovative development that takes care of diverse traditions and attitudes, supports equality and peaceful co-existence.

Highlights

Cultural diversity can be defined as the rich variation that exists between different cultures, as opposed to a society marked by a monoculture, such as the global monoculture, which is sometimes described as a homogenization of cultures, akin to cultural decay (Cultural diversity, 2018)
In our paradigm of experience, it has become evident that the aesthetic dimensions of our daily environment have great impact on how we feel and interact (Saito, 2010). Their symbolic meaning might differ according to point of view, and be subject to negative reactions www.FormAkademisk.org
Grete Swensen and Joar Skrede’s article Industrial Heritage as Cultural Sustainable Options in Urban Transformation: The case of Skien and Moss, deals with the reuse and transformation of industrial heritage to contemporary use. It represents a possibility for architects and designers to combine a building’s robust form with creative solutions that may enhance cultural integration, long-lasting and sustainable solutions in urban development

Summary

Introduction

Cultural diversity can be defined as the rich variation that exists between different cultures, as opposed to a society marked by a monoculture, such as the global monoculture, which is sometimes described as a homogenization of cultures, akin to cultural decay (Cultural diversity, 2018). Their symbolic meaning might differ according to point of view, and be subject to negative reactions www.FormAkademisk.org The matter of consumption, waste and sustainability should be considered (Skjerven & Reitan, 2017).

Results

Conclusion