On Monday 9 November the AMFI - Amsterdam Fashion Institute and ArtEZ Institute of the Arts (Modelectoraat & general studies department dAcapo) have organized the international symposium entitled Beyond Green, Good Design, in the World Fashion Centre in Amsterdam. A variety of guests, including sustainable designer and consultant Kate Fletcher, gave their personal perspectives on the theme. The aim of the symposium was to provide information to students and teaching staff in higher education, and to stimulate them to develop a vision of their professional responsibilities which goes further than merely following 'green' fashion trends.
>> Report Beyond Green 2009 (Dutch)
>> Report Beyond Green 2009 (English)
>> Lecture videos are available on the
programme page
Good Design was the central theme of Beyond Green this year. This theme had been chosen as there is increasing demand in society for products and services that are produced and delivered with respect for people and the environment. In this the new and decisive role of the designer is recognised as well as the pivotal position of design thinking in companies. These are some of the subjects which were addressed: innovative materials, light weight designs, consume less-consume better, slow fashion, optimalising the design and production process.
This year the symposium again included a Beyond Green Gallery with presentations on innovative projects by young designers and grass-roots organizations, and exhibition stands manned by numerous companies connected with fashion, textiles and sustainability. A swap shop also took place where visitors could exchange vintage items. The Beyond Green Gallery has been coordinated by I&A, Ingrid Horsselenberg & Annouk Post.
Next edition Beyond Green: 9 November 2010
Location: World Fashion Centre Amsterdam
Theme: SYSTEM