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Although an overarching philosophy in Japanese art and design for centuries, the phrase "elimination of the insignificant" is most often attributed to architect Frank Lloyd Wright. As a design philosophy, it is taken to mean the need for the artist to isolate the formal essence of their subject from the "unnecessary and accidental" inclusions that distort and obscure its true nature.
How does this philosophy apply to event design? I take it to mean that if a production element does not add to the event experience in some MEANINGFUL way, eliminate it. Stop wasting your time and your client's money on experiential clutter that adds little to the purpose of the event but can obscure and distract from it.
This doesn't mean your next project needs to be austere and uninspiring. It simply means that five grand spent on an inspiring information packet or better lighting at your workshop tables is a much better use of your client's money than an ignored branding video or real-time Twitter feed.
I think you're absolutely right. One of the best parts about technology is that in the midst of the clutter (like lots of tweeting) :) we can also streamline and simplify things - get the bag of crap out of our hands and instead replace it with virtual maps, virtual booths, and meeting requests.
ReplyDeleteMore than anything, I think making getting rid of the excess helps direct our attention towards what's most important. It helps streamline our experiences and maximize our efficiency. Whether in architecture, meetings, relationships, or spending/eating, it's always best to hone in on what's of better quality rather than quantity.
Again, great post! Thank you!!!