simplicity is the key...
If you only watch one thing this month.
Make it Rams.
This wonderful wonderful documentary is about legendary German designer Dieter Rams. Made by Gary Hustwit the man behind films including Helvetica, Objectified, Urbanized), with original music by Brian Eno. This film will seriously make you rethink your life, belongings and the world around you.
For over fifty years, Dieter Rams has left an indelible mark on the field of product design and the world at large with his iconic work at Braun and Vitsoe. The objects Dieter has designed have touched the lives of millions of people. Somany of us have had a Braun coffeemaker, shaver, stereo, calculator, speakers, or alarm clock. Or an Oral-B toothbrush. Or a Vitsoe 606 shelving system. Or any of the hundreds of other products Dieter has designed or overseen the design of. His work has influenced the way most of today's consumer products look and function.
But one of the most interesting parts of Dieter's story is that he now looks back on his career with some regret. "If I had to do it over again, I would not want to be a designer," he has said. "There are too many unnecessary products in this world." He has long been an advocate for the ideas of environmental consciousness and long-lasting products.
RAMS is a design documentary, but it’s also a rumination on consumerism, materialism, and sustainability. Dieter's philosophy is about more than just design, it’s a about a way to live. It’s about getting rid of distractions and visual clutter, and just living with what you need.
Now if only I can learn to heed what Dieter says, Less is Better…
Queen Marie