Monocle on Design

We hear from Alexander von Vegesack, founder of Domaine de Boisbuchet – an international research centre for design and architecture in southwest France that hosts workshops for students and professionals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vincenzo Latronico’s new novel ‘Perfection’ is a launchpad for Monocle’s associate editor, Grace Charlton, to explore ideas of materialism. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artist, illustrator and writer Rob Lowe, also known as Supermundane, joins us in the studio for another instalment of our summer series. Plus: the team discusses the link between architecture and landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alejandro Andres, curator of 'Puerto Rico in Print,' discusses the transformative legacy of Lorenzo Homar, a pivotal Puerto Rican printmaker. He highlights how Homar’s designs weave in cultural symbols, employing vibrant colors from the Puerto Rican flag. The conversation touches on his shift to experimental silkscreen techniques, showcasing a rich cultural identity. Moreover, Andres emphasizes Homar's impact on education and his mentorship of young artists, challenging neocolonial narratives while celebrating Puerto Rican heritage.

Fernando Augusto Pacheco, Monocle Radio's senior correspondent, delves into the 'Pictograms' exhibition at Japan House in London, discussing the significance of Japanese design and pictograms in modern communication. He shares insights into the essence of summer design, including nostalgic beach experiences and the joy of favorite summer drinks. Pacheco also reflects on the late Robert Wilson's artistic legacy, emphasizing how innovative lighting reshapes storytelling in both theatre and architecture.

Journey to Portugal to explore a unique design collective that harmonizes traditional craftsmanship with modern flair. Discover the magic of collaboration among independent designers, where teamwork ignites creativity. Learn how local materials not only shape design but also connect deeply with cultural heritage. The conversations spark inspiration on how nature influences design identity and emphasizes the intimacy of creative processes. Tune in for a vibrant discussion about pushing the boundaries of innovation in design!

Bolaji Teniola is an Adelaide-based interdisciplinary designer whose work explores art and design through timber shavings. Marco Sousa Santos runs Branca, a Portuguese furniture brand known for contemporary designs, and shares insights from the 'Chairman' exhibition. Rebecca Lewin co-curates the 'More Than Human' exhibit, which challenges conventional design by prioritizing ecological needs and non-human perspectives. They discuss innovative solutions merging art and nature, the transformative potential of sustainable materials, and the emotional narratives behind furniture design.

Monocle’s associate editor of design and fashion, Grace Charlton, muses on the importance of enjoying good design rather than the performance of merely owning it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re in Japan to visit furniture manufacturer Karimoku. Then we consider the use of concrete in Austrian architecture and the team behind ‘Slop Magazine’ discuss graphic design and client relationships. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Lagos-based artist’s exhibition, ‘You will wonder if we would have been friends’, is on at The Noguchi Museum in New York. Ogunbiyi’s artworks playfully blur the line between functional design and art. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.