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The influence of design extends far beyond mere form and function; it subtly shapes the way we exist. Ontology, the philosophical study of "being", examines the nature, categories, and interrelations of various entities in the world. Object-Oriented Ontology (OOO) further subverts traditional subject-object perspectives by asserting that objects are not merely passive accessories to human actions but possess their own meanings and agency. This philosophical approach has not only inspired artistic creation but has also profoundly impacted contemporary design.

The Manifestation of Ontology in Art

Artworks often evoke a re-examination of the value of objects and spaces through sensory engagement. A prime example is Canadian artist Janet Cardiff's "Sound Walks". Her audio installation guides audiences through specific spaces, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. Sound transcends mere background noise, becoming a medium for dialogue between the space and the viewer, prompting individuals to reconsider their connection to existence and environment.

British-Indian artist Anish Kapoor explores the interaction of shape and space through his sculptural works. For instance, "Cloud Gate", a monumental reflective sculpture, captures ever-changing images influenced by varying light and weather conditions. The interaction between the viewer and the piece reshapes the form and perception of the object, with each encounter or touch providing a new experiential reality.

Chinese artist Cai Guo-Qiang's gunpowder art further integrates the philosophy of time and existence into his creations. His work "Sky Ladder", which features the ephemeral nature of flames, reflects on themes of life and death. These explosive moments not only illustrate the transience of objects but also expose the inherent exploration of meaning within art itself.

Ontological Thinking in Design

In the realm of design, the principles of Object-Oriented Ontology are similarly transforming the role of objects — they are no longer mere tools that serve humanity but partners that interact with users and participate in daily life. British industrial designer Bill Moggridge emphasises that design should be human-centric while simultaneously granting objects more significant influence. He argues that User Experience (UX) Design alters ways people engage with products and modifies behavioural habits and perceptions. His design philosophy positions objects as integral components of daily life, continuously shaping how we exist.

Similarly, Spanish designer Patricia Urquiola's furniture pieces embody the emotional value of design objects. By combining functionality with emotional needs, she creates furniture that fosters emotional connections. Her sofa designs are not just items for resting; they become emotional vessels that help users find balance within their space.

Nendo, a design studio led by Oki Sato, offers a subtle yet profound reinterpretation of everyday objects. Sato's minimalist works are infused with rich philosophical considerations, with each product telling a story and engaging in a silent dialogue with its user. Through slight adjustments in design language, Nendo reminds us that everyday objects also possess the potential to transform emotions and habits.

The Value of Objects: How Design Reshapes Life

These artistic and design examples illustrate that the role of objects in our lives extends far beyond mere tools or decorative items. The perspective offered by Object-Oriented Ontology helps us recognise that each object resonates with our existence. Whether through spatial interaction in art or emotional connections
in design, the agency of objects encourages us to reassess their significance in our lives.

Designers and artists no longer view objects as passive responses to human needs; instead, they regard them as active forces in shaping lifestyles and identities. Their creations transform our interactions with objects, redefining the relationship between humans and the material world. Consequently, design becomes not merely a means of innovation and expression but also a method of exploring the meaning of existence, allowing us to discover new self-awareness through objects.

In a world filled with objects, these items are not merely tools but integral components that shape our existence. Furniture, products, and artworks participate invisibly in our life processes. A well-designed chair may influence our posture of thought, while the ambience created by a lamp can alter our mood. Through design, we influence and are influenced by objects, continually shaping each other's behaviours and perceptions.

This implies that design is not only a tool for problem-solving or aesthetic pursuit; it is also a means of establishing new relationships. The objects within the design carry their own stories, personalities, and vitalites, resonating with us through interaction. This resonance stimulates our imagination and prompts us to rethink the choices we make in life, highlighting that each item is intricately woven into our existence.

Future Design: Beyond Human-Centric Perspectives

Looking ahead, the design will no longer simply centre on human beings but will expand to encompass the relationships between humans and objects, as well as between objects themselves. We can expect to see more designers committed to exploring how objects shape human experiences, even challenging our existing understandings of time, space, and identity. Design is evolving from merely discovering new forms to redefining how we exist in this material world, establishing profound and meaningful connections with objects.

Ultimately, the future of design will encourage us to appreciate the intricate interplay between the material and the immaterial, the human and the non-human. In doing so, we can foster a richer understanding of our existence and the potential of design to influence our lives in transformative ways. As we navigate this evolving landscape, we will continually engage in a dialogue with the objects around us, recognising that they are not mere tools but active participants in the narrative of our lives. Through this understanding, we can embrace the potential of design to shape not only our environments but also our identities and experiences within them.