Future Bio Design

On October 24, during Dutch Design Week, Future Bio Design focused on designing with living materials. The program took place at the Next Nature Museum, the iconic Evoluon, and was hosted by pioneer and biodesigner Emma van der Leest (BlueCity). Jessie van Hattum moderated the program.

Designing with nature?

During the conference, designers, researchers, artists, and entrepreneurs came together for an afternoon full of insights at the intersection of biology, design, and technology. At a time when artificial intelligence, living systems, and sustainable materials are becoming increasingly intertwined, Future Bio Design explored how biodesign can contribute to a regenerative future.

What does it mean to design with life, not just for, but together with living organisms? And how can AI, empathy, and ecology spark new creative practices?

The pioneers of biodesign

After a welcome by Koert van Mensvoort and Emma van der Leest, presentations by Biofabricate and talks by Raphael Kim, Kit Baybrooke, Ermi van Oers, Amy Congdon, Maurizio Montalti, and Mark Post, among others, provided in-depth exploration of themes such as biodesign and AI, bioenergy, empathic design, living materials, and systemic change.

Moss Chair | Klarenbeek & Dros

From mycelium to cultured leather

In fifteen years, biodesign has grown from a niche in DIY labs to a field where science, technology, and creativity converge. From mycelium to cultured leather: living materials are finding their way into industrial applications, but also require care, collaboration, and a different attitude from designers.

Finally, Klarenbeek & Dros presented their internationally renowned work with living and bio-based materials. The musical accompaniment was provided by Miss Milivolt, Embla, and Kaikō Cola (RARARADIO), with analog VJ light art by Co2RO.