'Envisions' is an art exhibit and Dutch collective that shows the stages leading up to the completed design of a product while intentionally leaving out any direct reference to the finished product itself. The result is an exhibition that appears as though it consists entirely of abstract art, even though the designs are as far from abstract as possible (having been made with a completely practical purpose in mind.)
The final products derived from some of the pieces in the exhibit are more readily apparent than those in others. For example, Tactile Gestures by Jeroen van de Gruiter looks to have been part of a project for bathroom features like sinks and taps. Conversely, the pieces in Incarnate by Bastiaan de Nennie are incredibly difficult to interpret.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Intentional Incompleteness
- The trend of intentionally leaving out the direct reference to the finished product in exhibitions to highlight the process of design and creation.
- Process Visualization
- The trend of showcasing the stages and processes involved in product design through art and exhibitions.
- Functional Abstraction
- The trend of creating designs that serve practical purposes but are aesthetically abstract and visually intriguing.
Where This Applies
- Design
- Designers can capitalize on the trend of intentional incompleteness and process visualization to showcase their creative process and create intrigue and interest among consumers.
- Art
- Artists can leverage the trend of functional abstraction to create designs that serve practical purposes while also pushing the boundaries of traditional art.
- Exhibition
- Exhibition organizers can embrace the trend of intentional incompleteness and process visualization to offer novel experiences to visitors and keep them engaged and curious.
