Waste Age: What can design do? A groundbreaking exhibition that pushes the boundaries of design and tackles the critical issue of our environmental crisis. This immersive experience, the first collaboration between Midlands Arts Centre [MAC] and the Design Museum, London, isn't just about raising awareness; it's a call to action that empowers visitors to envision a future free from waste.
Waste: A Crisis and an Opportunity
The exhibition delves into the harsh realities of our current waste crisis, exposing the environmental, social, and geopolitical forces at play. This isn't just about overflowing landfills – it's about the impact on our Earth and local communities.
But Waste Age doesn't stop there. It showcases how design, the very force that often contributes to waste, can also be a powerful tool for change. Visitors will be introduced to a new generation of designers who are revolutionizing our relationship with everyday objects.
Waste as a Resource: A Design Revolution
Imagine a world where "waste" becomes a thing of the past. Waste Age explores this possibility by showcasing innovative design solutions across various industries:
- Fashion: Witness how designers are rethinking clothing production, exploring sustainable materials and creating garments designed for longevity and easy repair.
- Construction: Discover how architects and designers are employing modular systems and innovative materials to minimize waste in the built environment.
- Food Systems: Learn about closed-loop food systems and design solutions that minimize food waste and promote responsible consumption.
- Electronics: Explore advancements in electronics design that prioritize resource efficiency and easier recycling.
- Packaging: Delve into the world of sustainable packaging solutions, eliminating unnecessary waste and minimizing environmental impact.
A Birmingham Highlight: Awofeso's Sculpture
Adding a local touch, the exhibition features a captivating sculptural commission by Birmingham-based artist Abdulrazaq Awofeso. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant clothes waste markets of Nigeria, this artwork will spark conversation about the global impact of waste and the potential for creative reuse.
Beyond Materials: A Vision for a Circular Economy
Waste Age isn't just about clever design solutions. It introduces visitors to the concept of a circular economy. Where resources are kept in use for as long as possible. This exhibition explores the potential of new materials derived from waste itself. Creating a closed loop where waste becomes the raw material for future products.
Engaging with the Problem: Empowering Visitors
Waste Age is not merely an exhibition – it's a catalyst for change. The exhibition encourages visitors to become active participants in the solution. Through interactive elements and educational resources, visitors will gain the knowledge and tools to make informed choices in their daily lives.
A World Tour with a Local Focus
Waste Age, originally curated by Gemma Curtin and Justin McGuirk at the Design Museum, London, is on a global tour. MAC Birmingham is the only UK venue to host this prestigious exhibition, offering a unique opportunity for local audiences to engage with this critical issue.
Join the Movement: #EndTheWasteAge
By visiting Waste Age, you'll be part of a worldwide movement striving for a more ethical sustainable future. Together, we can rethink design, embrace innovation, and create a world where waste becomes a relic of the past. Don't miss this powerful and inspiring exhibition!
Waste Age empowers visitors to become part of the solution. Consider attending the Repair Café event held by MAC in collaboration with Balsall Heath repair café on 25th January 2025. This is a practical way to embrace the principles of sustainability and reduce waste in your daily life. Their skilled volunteer repair experts will be there to fix your broken household electronics and clothing. Come join us to give old items a new life, learn new skills, connect with others, and have a great time. You can find more information about the event here: link to the Repair Café event page at MAC Birmingham.
Exhibition Credits:
- Graphic design by SPIN.
- Headline sponsorship by Eversheds Sutherland.
- Generous anonymous donation.
- Supported by Arts Council England and players of People's Postcode Lottery.
Further Inspiration: Rubbish Redesigned
While visiting MAC, consider exploring a companion exhibition, Rubbish Redesigned: Innovative Designers from the Midlands. This showcase highlights local talent and innovative approaches to waste management. Featuring creative uses of everyday waste materials like orange peels and cow manure. This social marketing collaboration between The PeoplesHub.org and the Midlands Art Centre (MAC) offers a powerful and inspiring exploration of design's potential to tackle the waste crisis through people power.
“The issue of sustainability is high on everyone’s agenda and MAC continues to actively explore new ways of working and living. As an arts charity rooted in our local economy and communities, we are passionate about the importance of the arts in helping to communicate, motivate, and engage on issues concerning our planet.”
Deborah Kermode, CEO and Artistic Director at MAC
By showcasing innovative solutions and empowering visitors, Waste Age paves the way for a future where design and sustainability go hand in hand. Don't miss this opportunity to learn, be inspired, and let's work together to build a cleaner future!
Want to delve deeper into the themes explored in Waste Age: What Can Design Do? Join artist Danielle Phelps for an intergenerational waste paper making workshop on November 30th! Learn how to transform everyday waste into beautiful paper creations, fostering creativity and sustainability.
In conclusion, Waste Age: What can design do? is an exceptional exhibition from the Design Museum/MAC and is NOT TO BE MISSED.