Under the motto "Connect, Create, Collaborate", the Forward Festival in Berlin brought together over 2,000 creative professionals from all over the world for two days. Networking directly on the banks of the Spree in the fantastic ambience of the reopened Haus der Kulturen der Welt, lots of exciting creative impulses and plenty of inspiration - here are a few insights.
Moderated by Davide Bortot and Andy Kassier, over 40 speakers presented their personal works on three different stages and provided insights into their creative processes. In addition to renowned international speakers, numerous local heroes were also guests: from Sarah Illenberger, Esra Gülmen and Malika Favre to SNASK, Dinamo Typefaces and Nina Doll - there was something for everyone. Our author Susanne Schaller, who was in charge of our stand in Berlin, was particularly enthusiastic about the talks given by Studio Dumbar and Kelli Anderson.
In addition to the keynotes, there were also various workshop formats and tutorials on topics such as AI coding, stop motion and content strategy. "The creative world is constantly evolving," said the organizing team. "Innovations and new technologies are changing the way artists, designers and companies present themselves to the public." This is why the team behind the Forward Festival collaborated with software provider Squarespace, among others, to create various training opportunities and provide creative professionals with knowledge and new tools.
Perfect for this multifaceted format - the House of World Cultures, an institution dedicated to the search for "strategies for a better coexistence in and with this world". According to its own statements, hospitality and exchange are to be cultivated and passed on here. "A house in which respect for all living and non-living beings takes center stage and shapes our idea of cultures," it says in its manifesto.
In keeping with the philosophy of the Forward Festival, which always focuses on interdisciplinary networking and intensive exchange within the industry. Fortunately for the entire creative industry, the festival has now established itself as a must-attend event and will certainly continue to inspire and connect many designers in the future.
The next Forward Festival will take place on October 5 and 6 in Vienna
More about the Forward Creatives
