The Design Conference at the Design Indaba is known to be the best in the world, an idea of its stand is when such designers as Patricia Urquiola, the Bourollec brothers, Marcel Wander and trend forecastor, Li Edelkoort make their way to our windy shores, so that they can attend and speak!
My question though is why the expo does not match the conference, why the designs on show do not test the water in their daring. There is so much talent, there is so much thought that has not been turned into product, but where was it? The expo seems still to be something of a craft market with jewelry, beads and cloths - fantastic for those overseas but I feel keeping ourselves and our design stagnant. There needs to be innovation shown, new materials played with - there needs to be a “wow”.
I am not saying the expo was bad - but the truth is; I just feel there is more, it seems as though we are too scared to immerse ourselves completely in the deep end. I did see some fabulous stands, Visi - as always, Haldane Martin’s couch and table I enjoyed and yes, there were others; but it was a week dedicated to design, a week in which great designer were honoured, I know with certainty that more is out there that could have and should have been on show, perhaps there is fear but don’t be scared is my advise - rock the boat, create a stir - be what you are …. a designer!