Jackson Tan and Patrick Gan of Black Design

What is your curatorial aim or focus for the event ‘Utterubbish’?
Our focus is on how we can engage the mass audience in the design process. The design process is not exclusive to the designers alone. We also realised that a lot of designers around the world are exploring their roles and responsibility in society and the world. We wanted to explore how design can create value for the self, society and the world in a simple, fun and sustainable way.

The concept of ‘Utterubbish’ is fairly broad. Could you tell us about some of the “economical, social, cultural, functional, commercial or intellectual values” that designers will be exploring in this event?
We will explore the possibilities of how design as an individual process and as a social activity can create different kinds of tangible and intangible values. It will be presented in various formats, such as the exhibition of ideas from the designers, the conference, shop and activities. The idea permeates through the various formats and we hope that it will serve as a good platform to inspire, and realise ideas that can create economic, social, functional, emotional, intellectual values. The ideas presented by the designers are not the end point but, rather, the catalyst for more ideas and active participation from the audience.

Design festivals all around the world are suddenly talking about designs based on rubbish or discarded objects. Is this a passing fad? How can this concept be used in the local context?
Sustainability and recycling have been constantly explored in the international design community over the last 20 years. It has been prominent in recent times due to the huge media interest in it. It is a global theme that can be supported and informed by local citizens.

What are some ways in which consumers can make conscious design choices?
We “design” our own lifestyles, wardrobes, consumption habits, environments and activities everyday through the choices we make. Most of the decisions are sub conscious or instinctive. We feel that the audience can understand how they can actively participate in their own daily design process by making more informed and inspired choices.

Having been involved in the design scene for the last few years, can you tell us about some of your observations? What are some of the pre-occupations of Singaporean designers? Do they have a vernacular language?
These are exciting times for Singapore design and designers. Singapore is experiencing an unprecedented period of immense interest in design as a cultural and economic activity. We have a new generation of designers who are working across different disciplines and establishing themselves in both the local and international scene. They are a diverse but dynamic group of individuals who are shaping the local creative landscape and visual language.

What are the criteria for choosing the companies for 20/20? Are they selected based on portfolio/impact/acclaim/success or something beyond these?
The designers were nominated by their peers from the previous 20/20 designers. It is based on the premise of who they feel “captures the spirit of the times”, and are influential in “shaping the creative landscape” of Singapore.

What are your personal goals as the creative director of one of the most successful design companies based in Singapore?
I hope that we can make a positive difference and create value.