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Design Doha
24 February @ 6:00 pm - 28 February @ 6:00 pm
Design Doha is a landmark biennial dedicated to creative innovation.
26th February 2024 – The Power of Design – 4 pm – 7 pm
- 4-4:30 PM
Nurturing Cultural Heritage Through Design in The Middle EastSpeaker: Samer YamaniIn his keynote address, Samer Yamani will explore the crucial role of design in safeguarding, innovating, and promoting the cultural heritage of the Middle East. The emphasis is on illuminating the deep interconnection between indigenous narratives, communities, and modern design methodologies. This interplay is fundamental for cultivating and inspiring design environment in the region. The presentation will delve into the efforts of both the public and private sector, showcasing their active involvement in shaping a transformative era of design in the Middle East. The talk will illustrate the impact of these initiatives on the design and creative landscape of the region.
- 4:30-5:20 PM
Agent Of Change: How Design Shapes Society and CulturePanelists: Ibrahim Jaidah | Tim Marlow | David ChipperfieldModerator: Jelena TrkuljaThroughout history, design and technological innovation have driven our society forward, redefining our culture in the process. From the creation of a bicycle, through the sleek and intuitive interfaces of our smartphones to groundbreaking architecture that redefines urban spaces, design plays a key role in shaping our lifestyles, environments, and culture. In today’s ever-evolving digital landscape, design’s partnership with artificial intelligence (AI) has become a catalyst for cultural shifts. What are the traditional and contemporary trends that are shaping design and, consequently, our society and culture?
- 5:40-6:30 PM
Emerging Trends: Contemporary Art and Architecture in Arab Countries And Their Role in Global Design TrendsPanelists: Banan Alyaquby | Basma Bouzo | Jassim AlsaddahModerator: Fahad Al ObaidlyThis probing discussion explores the role that contemporary art and architecture from Arab countries play in shaping international design trends. The conversation navigates through the fusion of cultural narratives, innovative aesthetics, and societal impacts that emanate from the dynamic MENA region. Through this lens, the panel explores how these creative expressions act as catalysts for cross-cultural dialogue, challenge conventions, and contribute to the ever-evolving global design discourse.
- 6:30 pm-7 pm
The Future of Design Is NowSpeaker: Joris LaarmanModerator: Glenn AdamsonAmsterdam-based designer Joris Laarman has been at the forefront of the discipline throughout his two-decade career. In this conversation, he will join Glenn Adamson, Artistic Director of Design Doha, for a discussion of new possibilities opening up in design today, including additive manufacturing, algorithmic form generation, and radically sustainable processes and materials. As one case study, they will discuss the Doha Dragon – an extraordinary monumental seating sculpture made using Laarman’s self-invented technology Mx3D with 3D-printed sand – a new public artwork in the Msheireb, Doha Design District. 27th February 2024 – Design Doha Forum Day 4: Design Ecosystems – 4:00 PM – 6:45 PM
- 4 pm-4:50 pm
Innovation By Education: Design’s Role in Social And Economic DevelopmentPanelists: Maryam Al-Homaid | Kevin Mitchell | Michael Rock | Crystal WilliamsModerator: Amir BerbićThis panel will address the transformative power of design education as a catalyst for social and economic progress. Through the intersection of theory and practice, this discussion explores the potential of design education to shape individuals, inspire discovery, and reshape communities, underscoring its vital role in shaping a brighter future.
- 4:50-5:35 pm
Fostering Community Through Design: The Case of DohaPanelists: Ali Al Kuwari | Mohammed Saad Al-RumaihiModerator: Engin AyazHow do visual culture and design shape communities? This insight discussion will reveal the intricate interplay between design and the holistic development of communities within Doha. Drawing on the expertise of the panelists, the conversation explores the transformative role of design in shaping the city, fostering inclusivity, and nurturing vibrant communal ideas. With a focus on practical examples and visionary strategies, the panel examines how thoughtful design interventions can enhance living spaces, promote sustainable growth, and amplify the sense of belonging within the unique context of Doha. Ultimately, this conversation underscores the power of design in redefining the urban fabric and elevating the quality of life for all residents.
- 5:55-6:45 PM
The Enchanted Vessel: Museum As a Design ShowcasePanelists: Samir Bantal | Ben Van Berkel | Manuela Lucà-DazioModerator: Sheikha Reem Al ThaniThis panel will navigate the intricate relationship between design and museums, unearthing the transformative power of spatial narratives, curation, and architecture within cultural institutions. The conversation will delve into how design shapes the visitor experience, reimagines the presentation of art and artifacts, and creates immersive environments that evoke emotion, learning, and contemplation. The panel will provide insights into how these curated spaces serve as vessels of inspiration, education, and cultural dialogue for audiences worldwide. 28th February 2024 – Branding and Urbanism – 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- 4:00-5:00 PM
Branded Futures: Will Our Lives and Our Cities Become Over-Designed?Panelists: Karim Rashid | Ghada Al Khater | Shahira Fahmy | Rem KoolhaasModerator: Jorge Cerveira PintoBranding—once a purview of big companies—is now being applied to many other facets of life, including personal branding. Design awareness is higher than ever. In this thought-provoking dialogue, the speakers will explore the fine line between design’s contribution to bearing human existence and potential over-design within our lives and urban landscapes. Informed by the speakers’ unique and diverse perspectives, the conversation will explore the balance between functional aesthetics and excessive design in shaping cities and experiences. Ultimately, the discussion grapples with the challenge of preserving authenticity, cultural depth, and human-centered principles in an increasingly design-saturated world.
- 5:00-5:45 PM
Design For Impact: Bridging Business Approach and Sustainable Cultural Innovation(The Panel Is Organized in Collaboration with FROMM.)Panelists: Alia Rachid | Luca Fois | Kaltham Al Kuwari | Aisha Al MohannadiModerator: Dana SaidThis panel will discuss the impact of industry and consumer behavior influenced by forward-thinking design and sustainable cultural innovation. It will explore strategies for balancing profitability, sustainability, and cultural integrity in business models. Intercultural dialogue in the sphere of design will also be touched up, uncovering how collaborations enhance the design process and integrate cultural values.
- 5:45-6:30 PM
Qatari Architecture: From Mud to Concrete(The Panel Is Organized in Collaboration with Qatar Debate – In Arabic, With English Translation)Panelists: Mohammad Ali Abel | Hisham QaddoumiModerator: Moza Al ObaidanThis session will examine the role of Pre-oil and post-modern architecture in Qatar, through exploring the diversity of local design projects. The session will also focus on the country’s efforts in preserving the traditional design elements while simultaneously introducing post-modern design to the traditionally dominant architectural scene. Through the expertise of the panellists, the discussion will underline the dramatic changes that impacted the urban fabric of Doha and transformed it into the city it is today.
- 6:30-7:00 PM
The Story of Alsadu: Shaping of A Cultural Expression And IdentitySpeaker | Shaikha Bibi Duaij Al-Jaber Al-SabahSadu, the traditional Arabic term for wool weaving, has been practiced by Bedouin nomads in Kuwait and the Arabian desert for centuries. Rooted in the natural materials of the desert, this practical craft encompasses various techniques and life skills essential for desert living. Originally a traditional skill primarily practiced by women, wool weaving has evolved into a highly developed art form that allows for significant creativity and expression. The Sadu Art and Design Initiative (SADI) plays an important part in the history of the Society and aims to foster contemporary cultural insight and creative expression. Through this program, young Kuwaiti artists engage in an immersive experience to understand the textile traditions of the country. The goal is to inspire the development of new interpretations and modern creative expressions while recognizing that culture is dynamic, reflecting human growth, creativity, and innovation. To book your tickets for the Design Doha Forum, please visit https://qm.org.qa/tickets/select-tickets/?exhibition-deeplink=design-doha-forum. For more information, visit https://designdoha.org.qa/en/ or follow @designdohabiennial on Instagram.