Donald M. Rattner is principal of Studio for A.R.T. and Architecture, a multi-disciplinary creative firm, and director of A.R.T., an art and design storefront. “As an artist and architect my work combines a delight in form and concept irrespective of pragmatics with a sensitivity to the particularities of a site or context. To consistently harmonize my work with its surroundings I utilize a modular system of design. Modules are parts which can be joined together to form larger compositions. Since I start with the module rather than a finished piece, I can deliberately shape an assembly to relate to its location, rather than be simply superimposed upon it. Not coincidentally, modular systems are a key component of the New Industrialism. I define this term to encompass not only modularity, but mass customization, production on demand, open innovation, co-creative design, tele-fabrication, robotics and other computer-driven technologies that are changing the way things are made around the globe. I utilize all these techniques to fabricate the modules in my pieces, thus aligning my work with the collaborative and fluid nature of 21st century culture.”