Walking Sticks

Flowerpots, gardening baskets, newspaper racks or table stands: 18 artists design new and creative uses for the ubiquitous walking stick

From a practical tool to status symbol, the walking stick is a universal object that has been imbued with symbolism, craftsmanship and innovation throughout its history. Across different cultures and eras it has taken on different uses and meanings: whether agricultural, religious, ceremonial, orthopedic or sartorial. Recently, 18 designers ranging from Jasper Morrison to Julie Richoz were invited to reimagine the walking stick for an exhibition at the Triennale di Milano Museum curated by the Milan-based Japanese designer Keiji Takeuchi. This elegant book showcases their designs and demonstrates how a humble object can be a source of pleasure and pride. Presented in a vertical, rectangular format to suit its subject matter, Walking Sticks is introduced by Keiji Takeuchi and includes an essay by the design curator and critic Marco Sammicheli, which traces the cultural significance of this understated object.