Erik Kessels – The Power of Failure (Design Indaba)

Main idea:

Kessels argues that mistakes and failures are essential parts of the creative process. Perfection limits discovery, while accidents often lead to better, more original outcomes.

Key points:

• Failure should be seen as a tool, not a problem.
• Perfection and control stop us from exploring new directions.
• Amateur or unpolished work often feels more emotional and human.
• We learn more from what goes wrong than from what goes smoothly.
• Designers should make space for accidents, risk, and humour in their process.

Example:

• Hans Brinker Hotel campaign: they embraced their flaws, calling it “the world’s worst hotel.” Owning failure made it memorable and honest.

Takeaway for my project:

For my Thneed, allow imperfections to show personality, whether in stitching, material, or design quirks. Don’t hide experiments or “failed” ideas; they might lead to the most meaningful results.

Rick Poynor – Design Without Boundaries (2002), Chapter 1

Main idea: Graphic design is changing; boundaries between art, design, and communication are breaking down. Designers are exploring personal expression, identity, and culture, not just solving commercial problems.

Key points:

• Visual communication has shifted from strict, functional design toward experimental and expressive work.
• Designers like Neville Brody, April Greiman, and Edward Fella blur lines between art and design.
• Poynor argues that design needs stronger critical reflection — understanding why something works, not just how it looks.
• Design reflects culture and identity; it’s never neutral or purely aesthetic.