Last weekend at see-Conference in Wiesbaden, I immersed myself in inspiring discussions at the intersection of design, society and technology. Some key takeaways:
🔹 Gilda Sahebi showed how division fuels populist politics—and how we, as designers and citizens, can counter it by embracing ambiguity and seeking understanding over persuasion. A crucial mindset for collaboration.
🔹 Boris Eldagsen reframed the intelligence vs. creativity debate: While AI excels at remixing ideas, humans still lead in true innovation. Could AI become our "creative sparring partner," much like chess computers elevated human players?
🔹 Marta Cerdà Alimbau and many others reminded us of the magic in unrestrained creativity, while Swaantje Güntzel held up a mirror to humanity’s impact (like a toy vending machine revealing plastic waste in seabirds’ stomachs—powerful storytelling).
The conference brilliantly balanced the practical (communication design, AI, art) and societal (democracy, polarization). It left me questioning: Shouldn’t design also move beyond depicting the world to actively shaping it? With strategic design and user-centered innovation, we have the tools.
One recurring theme: The best creative work thrives when clients trust the process, not just predetermine outcomes. A principle worth defending—especially as procurement grows more detached.
What’s your take? Where do you see creativity, AI, and design’s responsibility heading?