(1.5) Ramp Talk and Opening of FEZ24

The FEZ24–Festival zur Entwicklung der Zukunft, event kicked off at CampusVäre with a compelling Ramp Talk centered on the theme “Transformation.” The discussion, featuring Harald Gründl, Chairman of the Institute of Design Research Vienna (IDRV), set the stage for a thoughtful exploration of the shifts occurring across work, society, science, art, and culture. A key focus was on the responsibility individuals can and must assume in shaping these transformative processes.

The conversation, moderated by Bettina Steindl (Managing Director of CampusVäre and Chairwoman of designaustria), brought together a diverse panel of experts:

Claudius Schulze, Artistic Director of the Climate Biennale Vienna

Harald Gründl, IDRV / EOOS next

Linda Meixner, The Offline Institute

Wolfgang Schwarzmann, Architect and Lecturer at the University of Liechtenstein

The engaging dialogue illuminated how transformation demands innovative approaches and highlighted the potential for collaborative efforts across disciplines to lead to sustainable change.

Following the discussion, the exhibition “Design with a Purpose” was officially opened. Hosted at the designforum Vorarlberg within CampusVäre, the exhibition showcased exemplary projects, including the IDRV’s contribution on Circular Design Rules. These works demonstrated how design can shoulder responsibility and contribute meaningfully to addressing global challenges.

The event successfully underscored the transformative power of design in shaping a sustainable future while fostering valuable dialogue among experts and participants.

The exhibition, part of the Climate Biennale Vienna, was curated and realized by the VIENNA DESIGN WEEK, with support from the Climate and Energy Fund.