Project Briefs
(choose an object which would be suitable for inclusion in this exhibition)

Everyday Icons
We use them every day. They influence our lives. They number in the billions. They are so common that we rarely even think about them: the everyday icons of everyday life. Be it a tea towel, a tea bag, a zip-loc bag or a zipper, these objects are classics. Typically based on an idea that was both simple and ingenious, they have often remained essentially unaltered for decades. Due to their constancy, efficient use of materials and great utility, they are the utmost examples of sustainability and functional aesthetics. Explore the social, cultural, economic and technological aspects of one such object.

Select an object/space/artefact which might be suitable for display in this exhibition.
It should be at least 20 years old – not a contemporary object produced now and not a luxury designer item, no Chanel, Prada, Dior or the like. You will work with your tutor to choose an appropriate object of study.

Combine scholarly research (books, articles, and other printed materials) with image searches. If you can, try to find the real thing – the artefact / object “in the flesh”, and (only if possible) touch it / use it / hold it / photograph it.

Consider these questions during your research:
– Who was this artefact / object designed by?
– Who manufactured it?
– What is this artefact / object used for? Is that the only use it has, or does it have more uses than the original intended function? Has its function changed over time, or has its function stayed the same, but the form changed?
– What else has changed over time in this artefact / object? (e.g. Form? Marketing? Materials? Manufacture? Distribution? Place of use? Demographic group?)
– Who was this artefact / object designed for?
– Does this artefact / object hold different meanings (associations) for different groups of people?
– What have other people said about this artefact / object?

Write a 1000 word report about your object

– context of the object / space / artefact,
– historical background
– designer/manufacturer (if applicable),
– function and uses,
– meanings and associations,
– and other relevant information.

The research process should allow you contextualise and analyse the object/artefact.
Use in text referencing and include a reference list indicating your research sources in UTS Harvard style.

Assessment Criteria:

• Located, assessed and used a variety of quality sources that are relevant to your topic (Research).
• Demonstrated an understanding of a particular historical context (Knowledge and comprehension).
• Discern a variety of significant agencies within a historical context, demonstrated through texts and visuals (Analysis).
• Produce a design history publication backed by solid research (Synthesis).
• Demonstrated a reasonable level of competency and rigour in referencing (Referencing).
• Produce a design history publication demonstrating appropriate and skilful use of communication techniques (Synthesis)