Freeman Lau
The entire world's society has been brought to a slowdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This reduce in economic activity has inadvertently resulted in a drop in global emissions, bringing back blue skies to many cities across the world. I believe this may be an indication from mother nature, reminding us of the constant burden it is under.
Designers around the world have faced the coronavirus, and many have designed solutions to help alleviate the current crisis. However, I hope everyone can re-examine the situation from another perspective; what responsibility do us designers have to the environment, and how we can assist humanity in recovering after the pandemic is over.
I believe the Chinese philosophy "Unity of Man and Nature" (天人合一) is a subject worth contemplating during the current situation. As such, I have decided to relaunch the "Rethinking Bamboo" project I curated 10 years ago for the First Beijing International Design Triennial. This time, I hope not only to continue our previous research, but also to further promote bamboo culture. I would like to take this opportunity to cooperate with friends from China, Asia and across the world, integrating technology and creative designs to develop innovative eco-friendly products, thereby shaping a new lifestyle based on the idea "Unity of Man and Nature, Providing Contentment by Rethinking Bamboo".