Biodesign NYC

About this course

Course Description

In many ways, biodesign presents a whole new paradigm for our Age. It’s design with biology. It transcends the limits of biomimicry, seeking to capture not only the variety of ways in which the natural world can inform projects, but it also promotes an understanding of the principles and processes that result in the myriad materials, forms, patterns, and relationships we see in the living world. The products and outcomes of biodesign feature ways of making that parallel nature’s strategies for yielding design and material solutions, and systems of production and engagement, that work with the natural world to promote conditions that are conducive to life on this diverse planet.

As such, biodesign involves an approach to design and production that replaces conventional mechanized systems of industry with biological processes. Its design tenets are biological principles that are observable in nature. Things grow and evolve, so its products are not thought of as ends in themselves; they’re part of a system, an ecology that design hopefully enhances. Therefore, biodesign projects are often complex, taking many factors into consideration, and are usually the result of a collaborative process that involves many specialists and generalists from a variety of fields, including artists and designers.

At RISD, the biodesign studies that we have undertaken have supported our strategic plan: by introducing our students to new, collaborative ways of making and knowing; by engaging sustainability through a variety of means that can help decarbonize and detoxify our communities; and, by pursuing accessible projects, resources, and opportunities that can contribute positively to diverse peoples, and our planet. But RISD is not a hub for the study and practice of biodesign. Fortunately, just down the tracks, there’s a global center where biodesign has been flourishing for many years: New York City. Therefore, located in NYC, this Wintersession Travel Course provided students with an opportunity to learn about biodesign, and create meaningful contributions to the study and practice of biodesign, by directly engaging a selection of topics and projects with some of its pioneers and influencers.