JISC

This exciting collection is now available to search and browse. Helping to promote an understanding and appreciation of popular design and culture, this is an unparalleled collection that is open to everyone.

This project involves the creation of the world’s largest and highest quality digital record of artefacts demonstrating design in plastics and the functional specification for an improved resource to support research into design in plastics and its cultural impact.

The modern world is made of plastic. The story of design in plastics is the story of the industrial and social development of the 20th and 21st Century environment. Yet except in connection with the world’s sustainability, plastics tend to receive considerably less attention than more traditional materials. Contrary to popular belief plastic is usually less stable than wood, ceramic or metal.  Contemporary collecting depends on the ability to understand and interpret the development of design in plastics. This project represents a unique opportunity to capture and share this knowledge before it disappears forever.

Download the final report (PDF)

Download the project plan (PDF)