First Design Biennale Rotterdam takes place in February

Liv Vaisberg and Sarah Schulten are the founders of Design Biennale Rotterdam. The first edition will take place from 20 February to 2 March and will make Rotterdam the centre of design for a while. The event will last ten days taking place across Rotterdam’s cultural institutions and unique venues. It will showcase the city’s innovative spirit, highlighting both local and international designers who are shaping the future of design.

The emphasis is on experimental and speculative design in all its forms. Including applied arts and functional art. The event aims to position Rotterdam internationally as a centre for creative renewal, innovation and experimentation. There is a particular focus on pressing global issues such as diversity, sustainability and social justice.

Besides exhibitions in well-known locations and unique temporary spots, there is also a framing programme. With interviews with leading figures from the design world, lectures, workshops, master classes, an educational offer for schools and a special programme for children. The central venues are Skin Club and New Institute.

Ambassadors

Liv Vaisberg (known for organising fairs in Brussels, Amsterdam and New York and the Skin Club) and Sarah Schulten (Creative Strategy Consultant in the cultural sector and fashion) chose this theme for the first edition: What's Real is Unfamiliar. They explain: "Rotterdam is a no nonsense city. Don't bullshit, but do it! This mentality perfectly reflects the innovative spirit of today's designers. There is a direct approach here and we believe that this biennale will not only highlight the best in design, but also show aa design can actively contribute to a better future. "

The pair have already managed to enlist internationally acclaimed designers from Rotterdam such as Sabine Marcelis, Chris Kabel, Laurids Gallé and Anna Aagaard Jansen as ambassadors.

Cover photo: Michele Margot