Lecture by Prof. Bitten Stetter

This lecture demonstrates vividly and comprehensively how the subtly imperatives like “be modest and be pure” constantly optimise body, soul and mind in our daily life in western societies. These imperatives create inner and outer force fields that result and express themselves in the commodification of the self. The inner pressure is driven by the need to protect the purity of one’s own authenticity and morality against contamination from the in- and outside, which corresponds to the outer pressure generated by bio-political rules and regulations pushing us to sustain our physical and mental health in order to unburden governments and insurance budgets. My collection of a multitude of everyday life phenomena will explain the reveals the subtle mechanisms of neo-liberalism by reflecting the complex connections of modern, economically-charged forms of power.

On one hand Bitten Stetter is a freelance fashion designer. On the other hand she develops trend and style forecasts as well as design and exhibition concepts for the creative industry. Since 2003 Bitten Stetter has different university teaching positions in the fields fashion, design and trends in Germany and Switzerland. Currently she has a professorship in the field of studies Trends & Identity and is head of two programs in Master of Arts in Design: Trends and Ereignis at Zurich University oft he Arts. She also teaches at the Bachelor of Arts in Design program Style & Design.Furthermore she leads the division Research and Investigation at the branch of study at Zurich University of the Arts. The creative output of her work combined with a keen sense for “new stuff” is decisively. This manifests itself in her university positions such as in several design awards like Red Dot Award, exhibitions like fashion talks and publications like Moralphobia.

Wednesday, 12 October 2016, 7:00pm
Connecting Space Hong Kong, G/F, Wah Kin Mansion, 18-20 Fort Street
North Point, Hong Kong