Wed Sep 11 09:30:16 UTC 2024: ## Helsinki Design Week Highlights Collaborative Design Studios
Helsinki Design Week, running from September 6th to 15th, is celebrating its 19th edition with the theme “Underneath.” This year, the focus is on showcasing the design process, not just the finished products, encouraging a deeper understanding of the creative journey.
Anni Korkman, the festival’s programme director, emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities and challenges involved in design. She explains, “When you highlight the process… that’s the magical part and the most interesting bit, for sure.”
One key initiative is the “Open Studios” series, where independent designers are opening their studios to the public. This allows visitors to gain insight into their daily activities and witness the collaborative nature of their work.
Korkman highlights a micro-trend of designers collaborating in shared studios, like Studio Bom in northeast Helsinki. Here, creatives from various disciplines work together, fostering cross-pollination of ideas.
The festival also features collaborative workshops like Minestrone Workshop, a contemporary wood workshop established this year, and Veneentekijäntie 12, where designers share resources and ideas.
This collaborative approach, according to Korkman, challenges traditional design silos and fosters a more dynamic and forward-thinking approach. It’s also a testament to the evolving nature of Finnish design, which is increasingly embracing innovation and collaboration.
While acknowledging the strong legacy of traditional Finnish design, Korkman emphasizes the importance of looking beyond national boundaries and embracing new ideas. She views this openness as crucial for the future of Finnish design.
Helsinki Design Week 2024 serves as a pre-party for the 20th anniversary in 2025, promising a more impactful and international celebration. It is a time to witness the exciting developments happening in Helsinki and the future of design in Finland.
First Piper 