In conjunction with Grady + Robinson’s exhibit “Leather from British Pastures” (a display of objects, material, and imagery connecting leather with regenerative agriculture), this talk will explore themes of material culture and design that is connected to farming and nature.
A conversation with designer Sebastian Cox, design writer Max Fraser, and the creators of “Leather from British Pastures” Sara Grady and Alice Robinson , the discussion will explore how materials such as leather and wood can be a link to regenerative practices that foster biodiversity, support ecosystems, and steward land.
But what are the challenges and outcomes of adopting a design approach that desires to regenerate land and ecosystems? In many cases, it will depend on cultivating appreciation for the character and “imperfection” of natural materials – how can our material culture evolve to do this? In what ways is design linked with food? And how can we foster a shift to regenerative practices?
Image: “Wild Leather” lounge chair and magazine rack, designed by Sebastian Cox. Leather tanned by Billy Tannery with hides from The Horned Beef Company.