Open-source design to redefine architecture?

An exhibition that challenges the notion good design is both elitist and costly was opened by Queensland Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts Minister Ian Walker in Brisbane, last night.

Supported by The University of Queensland’s School of Architecture, ‘Burst Open’ explores architecture and design through the lens of the emerging global phenomena of open-source.

Exhibition curator and UQ Senior Lecturer in architecture John de Manincor said ‘Burst Open’ explored how information sharing related not only to the design of objects but to architecture and the built environment.

Collaborating curator and UQ alumni, Christian Duell said critics often labelled today’s design as expensive and elitist, viewing the modern day designer as someone operating in a ‘bubble’ of isolation.

The term open-source refers to free public access of product designs via online platforms.

Designers from around the world have been invited to participate in a new “design model experiment” as part of the exhibition which has expanded from an initial focus on software to the design of practical objects.

“It’s exciting to see the models, drawings and full scale prototypes from our Masters students exhibited alongside high-profile local and international designers, including a few UQ alumni,” Mr de Manincor said.

‘Burst Open’ also features work by UQ students and the architecture school’s new Adjunct Professor, Virginia San Fratello.

The exhibition will be open to the public at Gallery Artisan, 381 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley until 24 December 2014.

Media: Madelene Flanagan, +61 7 3365 8525, m.flanagan@uq.edu.au, or John de Manincor, + 61 414 732 376, j.demanincor@uq.edu.au