SEMINARS / WORKSHOPS

In the age of global capitalism the tradition of creative activity becomes part of the battle for the commons, facilitated by the spread of digital and open source technologies. In this context, the open design model is being developed in multiple directions. Open design reinforces collaboration and participation-oriented methods and tools, while proposing a new approach for the creative activity and knowledge sharing. At the same time however, the monopolistic use of the term "open", in the rhetorical policies of large corporations and governments, focuses on specific economic theories ignoring the various types of openness practiced around the world. This one-eyed description is promoted with the sole aim of producing innovation for economic growth.

Despite the fact open design can actually create and restructure markets by fostering the diversity of business models; we believe that, in conjunction with Benkler's assertion on commons based peer production, it has the potential to bring about structural change in societies. In addition it can be an excellent tool for addressing local needs and inequalities by offering solutions for social inclusion. In order to create a uniform narrative around open design, it is important to highlight the multiple dimensions of the modern openness movement and the different trends that characterize it depending on the type and range of the allocated resources, the services or goods produced, and the long-term goals of the projects and communities that practice it.

Short Bio: The LUDD co-operative operates as a design and fabrication studio, offering various services in the areas of architecture, urban planning, industrial design and small-scale manufacturing/construction. Additionally, the team manages LUDD LAB, an open workshop based on the models of fablabs and makerspaces. Through its work and public programming, LUDD explores the links of modern design practices and technological production methods with approaches to the commons, political ecology, visual arts and hands-on training.

/l˄d/​ ​- LUDD as a name refers to "King" or "General Ludd", a mythical figure and collective nickname used by 19th-century England's textile craftsmen to assert their rights in a time of significant technological change. The "Luddites", as they have been called throughout history, unlike the common use of the designation nowadays, were not opposed to technology as such, but to their alienation from production. The purpose of LUDD is to help re-establish the relationship between technology and the needs of creators and users through the democratization of technological and cognitive resources, as well as the development of sustainable solutions with a focus on social innovation.