Forward Festival Berlin 2024

The Forward Festival 2024 in Berlin concluded as a significant success, leaving attendees inspired and buzzing with creative energy. Held at Haus der Kulturen der Welt on August 29th and 30th, the sold-out event attracted a large crowd of designers, artists, and creatives from around the world. It featured a diverse range of speakers, workshops, and interactive sessions, offering a mix of innovative and hands-on experiences.

One of the festival’s main highlights was its focus on AI in creative processes, which sparked both excitement and debate. CGI artist Ariel Lu delivered a memorable talk, exploring how she uses the AI tool Houdini to inject vulnerability and emotion into her work. Another standout presentation came from Shane Griffin of GRIF Studio, who shared his approach to merging graphic and interior design with technological innovation, offering valuable insights for those eager to explore the intersection of art and technology. Gavin Strange shared his tips on how to unleash creativity in his presentation on Friday evening, reminding us to view the world through the eyes of a child.

In addition to the captivating talks, the exhibition space of the Forward Festival 2024 was a hub of interaction, with attendees engaging in hands-on workshops, discussing future trends, and experimenting with the latest design technology. The active exchange among attendees allowed people from various design fields to connect, leading to interesting and engaging conversations.

The Forward Festival’s creative and collaborative atmosphere enabled participants to connect, exchange ideas, and immerse themselves in Berlin’s vibrant creative scene while also surprising its international audience. With the festival’s diverse offerings—from tufting rugs and printing to browsing through books and exploring data visualization and experience design—it provided something for everyone, solidifying its status as a must-attend event for professionals in the creative industries. We’re excited for many more years of Forward Festival!

Text and images by: Greta Landmann