PASS THE BATON

Curatorial Statement

PASS  
THE  
BATON 

The goal of this exploration is to delve into the concept of inheritance, encompassing both tangible and intangible aspects. We aim to understand what and how we inherit. Do we recognize its value, or do we let it slip by without grasping its significance? Do we preserve it as heritage or transform it into something better and more aligned with the present (progression)? Are we extending its lifespan or propelling it into the next phase (circular design)? 

Typically, inheritance is associated with receiving something from the previous generation. But can we inherit from other species? Can inheritance transcend the boundaries between nature, humans, and machines? Is it possible to pass ideas between humans and computers (AI)?  

‘Pass The Baton’ is a series of exhibitions, Part 1: ‘From Passing By To Passing On’ explores how value can be represented through design, which serves as an introductory exhibition, setting the foundation for exploration. Part 2: ‘From Process To Progress’ shows how design elevates a standard process to progress when it is needed. Part 3: ‘From Future To Now’ will bring together the preceding sections, creating a cohesive and comprehensive experience. 

FROM  
PASSING BY 
TO  
PASSING ON 

Inheriting an object or a place is often what we think of when it comes to inheritance. However, a way of thinking or a creative process (culture/craftsmanship) could be something more significant than a tangible item we inherit. When it is intangible, it becomes more challenging to pass on. But when we can intentionally design the means of passing it on, it is likely to improve. For instance, as we became more aware of our environmental impact, we started with recycling, then upcycling, and now we approach design more holistically through circular design principles. 

We pass on what we value most, but not everyone sees it in the same way. This is why we sometimes overlook things that are worth inheriting. How can we ensure the continued transmission of knowledge, ideas, craftsmanship, skills, and more? By skillfully translating knowledge and ideas through design and representing them in the form of infographics, books, exhibitions, and websites, they are more likely to be passed on to a wider audience or even the next generation. Some designers take an interest in preserving crafts, production methods, or our community and keep them alive through collaborations or even adopting the skills.

FROM 
PROCESS 
TO  
PROGRESS 

There are things we want to preserve as they are, to be cherished as we grow older. We achieve this by repeating established processes. It then becomes a tradition if not already one. However, there are also situations we want to further develop the process passed on to us, either to meet different needs/ scenarios or because we have advanced in skills and technology, allowing for further growth. Keeping the process as is or develop it to progress is not necessarily making one better than the other, they could both exists. It’s merely a choice to make for specific scenarios. In ‘From Process To Progress’, we can see how design transcends process to progress from material development to production process and user experience.

FROM 
FUTURE 
TO 
NOW 

‘From Future To Now’ is a continuation and an extension of the first and second part, showcasing how design can enhance the visibility of the value of inheritance, also opening up possibilities for preservation and adaptation in different scenarios.  

At ‘From Passing By To Passing On’, we invited individuals to share their thoughts on ways to improving the city and enhance everyday life. The data collected from these contributions is then transformed into a visual journey that represents our collective visions for a better future. The outcome of this process is presented here, together with the re-edited journey through the projects. We hope one can spend some time here to see how ideas can be inherited and interconnected through the books designed by Joost Grootens and Irma Boom. Or what we can inherit from nature and other species from the research and exhibitions of Formafantasma. To see how designers can inherit and preserve a skill set and at the same time adapt it into other media like Katol with sign painting and his graphic design.  

Designers research into the Past, envision the Future, and act Now to create a better tomorrow.