“We have to be useful. Therefore, we are working on structural projects that change the way we include design in society. We are not just referring to exhibitions or activities to be included on the agenda, but the implementation of mechanisms that are able to change the way we do things in industry or administration in order for design to be present in processes from the beginning.
We want to generate tools that provide a service to the sector, as well as to other fields that wish to include design. We have the opportunity to incorporate design in the national reconversion of our productive fabric and we are working with all the agents involved to contribute ideas, strategies and paths for unity,” explained Xavi Calvo, director of the Capital project.
The last few weeks have been vital to establishing the Organizing Lead of Valencia World Design Capital 2022, a committee recommended by the World Design Organization as the first step of the management of the project. Xavi Calvo is joined by seven new positions: María Lapiedra, communication director; Amparo Balbastre, finance director; Víctor Aguado, sponsorship director; Silvia Flórez, Design Community Engagement Manager; Miguel Arraiz, project director; and Corinna Heilmann, programme director.
The selection committee, as well as the director himself, highlighted the high profile and quality of all the candidacies received, over one thousand, which will be used for future selection processes and incorporations.