Objects serve myriad and complex needs of individuals and societies–from solving utilitarian problems to providing emotional and spiritual fulfillment. For designers, objects hold particular creative, ethical, commercial, and pedagogical significances. This panel will explore a range of meanings, focusing especially on the effect of materiality on meaning. How does the physical nature of the object and its materials shape the ways that designers and users understand objects? What roles do influence and history play in the design and experience of objects?

Panelists in the session will present favorite objects and materials, discussing how they understand and teach the relationship between materiality and meaning. Presentations will be followed by a conversation moderated by Eric Anderson and Chris Specce.