The document critiques contemporary art and design for failing to address critical societal issues and attributes this to an inward-looking educational legacy. It encourages individuals to engage creatively with complex problems through practical solutions like drip irrigation and wind energy, while advocating for the acquisition of skills applicable to social interventions. Ultimately, it calls for a shift in focus towards making meaningful contributions and standing out in the field.

1. Raising the Bar Acquiring the capability to investigate macro processes, and design effective creative interventions

2. One of the most damning critiques of contemporary art/design practice is that it does little to address and resolve some of the most critical issues of our times.

3. The roots lie in the legacy of art/design education that is inward-looking and tends to be creative only within the consumerism discourse.

4. What do we really know about life outside our walls? What do we care? Even if we did, what can we do?

5. Plenty.. Drip Irrigation. Wind Energy. Nanomedicine. Communications.

6. Where do we begin?

7. The BBC Eco Top Ten?

8. Our own backyard?

9. Our society?

10. Our own lifestyles??

11. “ How can one be creative, inspired and have fun when dealing with depressing, historical, complex issues?”

12. There are a million and one things that need to be done, when dealing with complex & intractable issues. Be smart. Find the ones that trigger your creative juices and offer your kind of fun.

13. “ How can one find a creative solution to ages-old problems in three weeks or even months?”

14. There are a million and one things that need to be done, when dealing with complex & intractable issues. Be smart. Start with the most urgent or do-able ones.

15. “ Shouldn’t we focus on acquiring those skills & capabilities that would help us in our careers?”

16. Get smart. Social interventions require the same skill- & capability-sets as corporate design.

24. Get ambitious. Make a difference. Stand apart.