Young Polish Designers - Vienna Design Week 2021, 24 September – 3 October, Sachsenplatz 4-6, 1200 Vienna

The time when we face pandemics, social and environmental problems, for young designers has also been a time of reflection on the new reality, a period of adopting an active attitude supported by the desire to use the tools available to them in order to change the surrounding world. The exhibition shows which topics and problems seem to be important for young designers and what actions they take to change the status quo. Listening to their voices allows us to look at the world with fresh eyes and to become infected with the will and desire to transform it for the better.

One of the themes taken up by the creators is the relationship between man and his body. The designers combine knowledge of health care, physiotherapy or psychology with their design skills. They show innovativeness and sensitivity to nonmedical aspects of use, such as the psychological comfort of the recipient. The designers also pay attention to the rituals associated with care and promote ecological solutions in this area.

Students look closely at society to capture its moods. While the world is full of polarizing opinions and divisions, they pay attention to interpersonal relations. Through designs, they strive to increase integration and break down barriers – whether they are intergenerational, disability-related, or stem from a lack of relationships due to the distance between family members. The young artists also draw attention to the role and future of man in a consumerist world.

The conscious design also means shaping one's environment. Young designers take an active part in many civic activities. They strive to make space keep up with the changing needs of the inhabitants. On the other hand, with great sensitivity, they try to capture the character of places important to them. They encourage more frequent contact with nature, but also draw attention to the importance of the virtual environment.

It is worth noticing that today's students are highly aware of the coming climate change and are working to delay it. They promote building a relationship with nature which is based on respect and awareness. With their skills, they use science, technology and a creative outlook to do so. This results in projects showing new approaches to energy production and retention, burial or travel.

The items presented in the exhibition are interdisciplinary. They demonstrate how diverse Polish design can be. All these works share a responsible social approach combined with high design skills. The works are innovative and technologically advanced. At the same time, they reveal traces of traditions, both local and related to the specializations of individual universities. Modern improvements are proposed in a way that shows care for the environment and sustainable development. While focusing on the theme of closeness in family relations, designers do not forget about global problems. And it is this ability to look broadly and interpret critically that is an uplifting and motivating image of today's academic youth.