The week started with some big numbers – and plenty of positivity – at the Design Council’s Designing What Comes Next. In 2023, design contributed £136 billion to the UK economy (£22 billion more than retail), employing 2.27 million people. Reasons to be cheerful.
Inevitably, though, the conversation quickly turned to AI and what the future might mean for all those jobs. If AI can take on the work of junior designers – and perhaps eventually Creative Directors – we were left wondering, ‘what’s the bit of being a designer that clients can’t (yet) do without?’
We didn’t have to wait long for an answer.
A tour of the beautiful, wood-scented world of our neighbours – and plywood masters – Lozi was a reminder of the value of craft, judgement and obsessive attention to detail. I still haven’t seen anyone swoon while running their hands over an AI bot.
Then came a trip down memory lane to George Hardie’s Archaeology in Observation exhibition at my old friend Benji Wiedemann’s Hoxton studio, which was further proof that originality, personality and craft are still kings in the creative world. It was great to chat with Benji and introduce a couple of our young guns to an old master. A creative genius who applied his imagination and incredible hand skills to a lifetime of design and illustration that includes Pink Floyd & Led Zeppelin album covers, Royal Mail stamps, and the work I first encountered as a graduate at Trickett & Webb where I first met the great – and gentle – man.
More than anything, the week reinforced how important it is to get away from our tech and screens. To see new – and old – things, meet people, exchange ideas and soak up inspiration. And, of course, to have a good old chin-wag and a beer with friends, peers and neighbours.
Hopefully clients will still value that in the future too.
– Giff
Across a week of talks dotted around Shoreditch, a few themes stood out at this year’s Design Festival: how design can help us navigate uncertainty, strengthen communities and create a more hopeful future.
As the challenges around us evolve, the talks were a reminder that, as creatives, we have the skills to help shape a world we can be proud of. From how we design our cities and nurture connection to how we make environmental impact more transparent.
Most of all, the week reinforced the value of spaces that bring people together, spark ideas and create a sense of belonging. We need more of that.
– Jemima
