Design Manifesto

Thinkers and artists have used the manifesto form for centuries to crystallize their thoughts into a succinct, clearly-defined program or call for action. The American Declaration of Independence is a manifesto; so are Martin Luther’s 95 theses. Artists love manifestos, too, whether they be futurists, surrealists, or austere Danish filmmakers. At it’s core, a Manifesto reacts to the question, “What do you believe?”

Your final assignment for the semester is to write your own manifesto. It can be on any topic related to the course — aesthetics in design, sustainability in making, the iterative design process, the tools of digital fabrication — anything you personally care about in this space. Position yourself within the topic you choose — write passionately, persuasively, and from a personal perspective.

You may structure your manifesto as a thoughtful numbered list, a series of bullet points, a narrative, or any other format that is appropriate for your message. From the serious and heartfelt to the satirical and tongue-in-cheek, you can choose any tone you wish.

Although there is ample creative freedom in this assignment, your manifesto must be carefully written, edited, and free of gramatical mistakes. Consider alluding to and/or directly referencing readings, class discussions, and projects from the course.

Your Manifesto must be a minimum of 850 words and a maximum of 1000 words.

Your Manifesto is due by 7pm on Thursday, December 15th.
Submit your Manifesto as a pdf on Edmodo.

This Manifesto is worth 80 points.