Barcelona Hosts 9th Edition of Italian Design Day with Focus on Inclusivity and Heritage

Barcelona: In the splendid setting of the Fundaci² Enric Miralles, the Consulate General celebrated the 9th edition of Italian Design Day in collaboration with the Italian Cultural Institute, the IED, and Laboh. The event took place on Wednesday, February 12, with a focus on the role of design in combating inequality and building a better future.

According to Ansa News Agency, Milanese product designer and artist Elena Salmistraro, appointed as the Design Ambassador for the occasion, and Catalan designer Pepa Reverter led a discussion moderated by Emanuela Procopio of IED. They explored the challenges and opportunities facing design today, emphasizing that design is not just about aesthetics but must act as an agent of change to address the challenges of the present and future.

The central theme of the event was inclusivity, highlighting that design should not remain a privilege for the few but be an accessible tool for the benefit of all, responding to the concrete needs of society. However, practical difficulties and economic challenges can hinder creativity.

Another issue addressed was the role of design in preserving and enhancing cultural heritage. Salmistraro emphasized how design can bridge local traditions with the global stage, safeguarding Italy’s artisanal craftsmanship amidst the challenges posed by globalization.

The discussion also underscored the need for design to be innovative to tackle contemporary challenges. While new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, can aid in this effort, they currently cannot replace human creativity. Human error, as noted by the experts, is what makes each work unique and irreplaceable.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the practical challenges design faces in being an effective agent of change. Having a clear direction is essential before embarking on any project to ensure its positive impact on society.