Assignment 2: The Continuing Curve

In the continuum that swings between the aesthetically pleasing curve and the functional line, the iPod is an iconic example today’s "curvy" aesthetic design. Although its sleek design does not reflect the traditionally embellished styles of pleasurable design, the principles of the curve still exist. As technology becomes digital, with inherently detailed computing functions, the nature of form vs. function has been reversed. Apple presents the user of digital technology with simple user-friendly forms. Similarly, during the Art Nouveau period, inherently simple furniture is changed for pleasure, with organically detailed embellishments and curves. While one is embellished and the other is minimalist, they both play on the sensuous impulse. Art Nouveau changes the straight components of table top and table legs, providing pleasure for the household, while Apple takes away the relatively complex functions of digital technology to make it pleasurably usable.

 The physical curve remains an subtle yet intrinsic part of this sensuous design as the aesthetics of the iPods' shapes are often streamline rather than rigid, or with molten-like edges. The click wheel of the iPod is a celebration of the sensuous impulse, allowing users to control by rotational touch rather than straight clicking. Also, more technological designs are incorporating touch screen, due to the appeal of physical interaction with the screen and the play on the sensuous impulse.

 So as the pace of living is getting faster, and technology shifts to become more digital and portable, the curving and sensuous design aesthetically changes from being embellished to minimalist and streamline.