Product Design learners' pop-up exhibition

From a banana hanger to cast iron cookware, a heavy-duty blanket to a bowl made of carbon fibre, a group of talented Otago Polytechnic learners are holding a pop-up exhibition at Dunedin design store Guild.

The exhibition, which opened on 22 October, is the result of a semester-long Bachelor of Design (Product) project aimed at providing learners with a range of real-world challenges.

The students have been required to consult with their client, Guild, which is run by not-for-profit group Dunedin Designed Inc. Staffed entirely by designers, Guild showcases everything from handcrafted jewellery and innovative fashion to homewares, furniture, art prints and more.

“Our learners have had to interpret the store’s requirements, values and aspirations, and seek new product opportunities that fit these,” Otago Polytechnic Design Lecturer Tim Armstrong explains.

“They have researched contemporary New Zealand design, developing and articulating their own design values through their work.

“In doing so, the students learn about what it takes to develop, manufacture and market products in New Zealand, and the opportunities and considerations this presents. They also need to clearly communicate ideas back to manufacturers to ensure accurate production of their designs.

“In addition, they have had to create branding, packaging, point-of-sale and marketing material to suit different audiences,” Tim says.

Details of Otago Polytechnic Bachelor of Design (Product) learners’ works being exhibited at Guild (145 Stuart St, Dunedin):

Will Davenport: Cast iron cookware aimed at (but not exclusive to) outdoor cooking. Fits Coleman-style two-burner camping stoves.

Tommy Wilson: High-end, rugged outdoor blanket made of wool and canvas.

Quinn Curtis: Banana hanger, made from reclaimed kauri, which keeps fruit separate and fresher longer.

Sam Guerin: Bowls made in carbon fibre and bronze.

Hamish Lockie: Folded sheet-metal side tables, combining high-tech cutting techniques with detail normally associated with craft.

Tom Bernard: Hi-fi table for turntable, amp and records, or just a nice coffee table. Made of sustainable Southland beech.

Bodie Duncan: Hoodies, t-shirts with own branding and graphics (in collaboration with an Otago Polytechnic Communication Design student).

Jenny Duncan: Sheet-metal shelves, colourful, cheerful and strong graphic elements for the wall.

Lukin Tayles: Apparel with own branding.

Finn McKelvie: Surf/skate-inspired acrylic wall art.