How Materials Matter: Design, Innovation and Materiality in the Pacific

How Materials Matter explores how design and innovation shape peoples lives in the Pacific, focusing on plant materials from the region. It reveals how various people use materials to transform worlds, recognizing the fragile and ephemeral nature of plant fibers and their aesthetic appearance to communicate information and manage relations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 212 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2023
Publisher: Berghahn Books

Design and innovation play a significant role in shaping the lives of people in the Pacific region. Through a focused examination of plant materials sourced from the region, the book "How Materials Matter" sheds light on the diverse ways in which individuals, ranging from craftswomen and scientists to architects and politicians, engage with materials to create transformative effects. Recognizing the delicate and fleeting nature of plant fibers, this work delves into the intricate ways in which the biophysical properties of specific leaves and their aesthetic appeal are harnessed to convey information and navigate various forms of relationships. By placing plant materials at the forefront of innovation in the Pacific, this groundbreaking work breaks new ground and offers a fresh perspective on the role of materials in shaping our world.

The Pacific region is a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and materials that have shaped the lives of its inhabitants for centuries. From the intricate woven textiles of the Pacific Islands to the sturdy construction materials of coastal communities, the materials that surround us have a profound impact on our daily lives. In recent years, design and innovation have played an increasingly important role in shaping the Pacific region's material culture.

One example of this is the use of plant materials in traditional craftswomen's practices. Many Pacific Island communities have a long history of weaving and carving, using materials such as coconut leaves, bamboo, and taro to create beautiful and functional objects. These crafts are not only a source of income for local artisans but also a way to preserve traditional knowledge and cultural heritage.

In addition to traditional craftswomen, scientists and architects are also using plant materials to create innovative solutions to regional challenges. For example, researchers in the Pacific are exploring the use of bamboo as a sustainable building material, as it is fast-growing, renewable, and has a low carbon footprint. Architects are also using natural materials such as coral and timber to create sustainable and eco-friendly buildings that blend seamlessly with their surroundings.

Innovation in the Pacific region is not limited to the use of traditional materials. Digital technologies, such as 3D printing and virtual reality, are also being used to create new and innovative products. For example, a startup in Fiji is using 3D printing to create affordable prosthetic limbs for people with disabilities, while a company in New Zealand is using virtual reality to train farmers in sustainable agricultural practices.

Overall, design and innovation play a critical role in shaping the Pacific region's material culture. By leveraging the unique properties of plant materials and other natural resources, individuals and communities are creating sustainable, functional, and beautiful objects that reflect their cultural heritage and address regional challenges. As the world continues to evolve, it is important to continue to support and promote design and innovation in the Pacific region, as they have the potential to create positive change and improve the lives of millions of people.

ISBN-13: 9781805391227