SUB-STRAND 1.1: DESIGN IN NATURE AND MAN-MADE ENVIRONMENT
LESSON 1: INFLUENCE OF NATURE ON MAN-MADE DESIGNS
It is important to note that designs are derived from nature. That is to say, designers usually look at natural objects and come out with their designs. This is because humans, since from the very beginning, have the ability to discover and learn from his environment. In human beings’ observation/learning/ designing process, they have acquired experience and developed skills to provide their needs by imitating, interpreting, and using the opportunities of nature. Hence, similarities observed between man-made structures and the structures of nature are obvious.
For example, the head or the front part of the train below was inspired by the beak of the bird beside it. Also, the next design on the next page was inspired by the human palm and fingers. Again the storey building was designed by looking at the anthill beside it.
Anthill inspired Eastgate Building in Harare, Zimbabwe
Art teachers often say that art is all around us; actually they mean that “design” is all around us.
Activity 1
Take a walk around your environment or your community and identify designs that are inspired by natural things. List these designs in your notebook for discussion in class. You can also use the internet to find out more on how nature influences design.