rootoftwo (UK-Scothland/US)
ootoftwo (Cezanne Charles + John Marshall) is a research and practice-driven hybrid design studio formed in 1998. Charles holds a Master of Public Administration from the Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan (2015) with an emphasis on science and technology studies and BA in Theatre Studies from The Ohio State University (1997) focused on experimental performance and technology. Marshall holds a PhD in Design and Technology from Robert Gordon University (2008); an MA in Art as Environment from Manchester Metropolitan University (1997); an MFA in Sculpture from The Ohio State University (1996) and a BA(Hons) in Fine Art from Glasgow School of Art (1993).
rootoftwo work to create a condition where we can perceive ourselves, the here and now, and the future differently. rootoftwo makes social objects, experiences, and works for the public realm - typically at the scale of devices, furniture or small buildings. Their projects are designed to disrupt and reframe systems, networks and infrastructure.
rootoftwo's work is part of permanent collections such as the Folkestone Artworks (2014); the A. Alfred Taubman Medical Research Institute (2012) and the Center for Land Use Interpretation (2012). Public works include 'Resonance' for Midtown Detroit Inc. (2016); 'Whithervanes' commissioned by Creative Foundation Ltd. for Folkestone Triennial (2014); and 'menotme' commissioned by Dlectricity (2012). Their work has appeared in museum and festival exhibitions such as ‘DETROIT MADE’ for the Detroit Design Festival (2014); Post-Industrial Complex at the Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (2012); ‘Trouble in Paradise/Medi(t)ation of Survival at The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, Japan (2010) and ‘Chain Reaction’ at the Museum of the City of Skopje, Macedonia (2008).
rootoftwo is based in metro Detroit.