MA Curatorial Practice and MA Design Research, Writing and Criticism present a panel discussion on the questions inherent in curating contemporary design—from topics to objects and from sponsors to venue—that relate to social, political and economic issues. What values are implied by curatorial choices? What due diligence is required? What value is assigned through selection, display and promotion of objects? In the age of crowdfunding and self-publishing, what compromises, if any, are acceptable? This panel addresses how the act of curating design today creates ripple effects that extend far beyond any one exhibition or collection. Additionally, it will address the ethical responsibility and political performance of design as a mass phenomenon in relation to the issues of display.

Panelists include MFA Products of Design Chair Allan Chochinov; Deputy Director, Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian National Design Museum, Brooke Hodge; Founder, Moss Bureau, and MA Design Research, Writing and Criticism faculty member Murray Moss; and Designer and Founder, David Weeks Studio, David Weeks.

Moderated by MA Design Research, Writing and Criticism Co-Chair Molly Heintz and MA Curatorial Practice Director of Curatorial Research Jovana Stokic.

Talk

Objects (Still) Matter: A Forum on Curating Beyond Fine Arts