»un-trouble« – 30 Years Of Gender And Diversity In Design

We cordially invite you to “un-trouble” – A Celebration of 30 Years of Gender & Diversity in Design at the Cologne International School of Design.
With an exhibition, panel discussions, and workshops, the event will address the question of how design contributes to social negotiation processes surrounding gender, power, and visibility – and how it can critically question and reshape existing structures.

The event opens a dialogue between students, alumni, teachers, and experts from the fields of design, science, and activism. Together, we want to discuss the responsibility design bears in the construction and deconstruction of gender norms and the spaces for collective action that arise from this. The exhibition was developed jointly by a team of students and reflects different perspectives and approaches to gender, identity, and design practice.

Highlights:

– Exhibition on 30 years of gender and diversity in design at KISD
– Two panel talks: pills & power (November 13) & space & belongings (November 18)
– Music and informal exchange afterwards

Introduction: Prof. em. Dr. Uta Brandes and  Prof. Iris Utikal
Moderation: Julie Tanqueray (KISD student) and Lucy Howe (KISD alumna)

The complete programme and schedule will follow shortly. Participation is free of charge and open to all interested parties.

We look forward to welcoming you to KISD in November to reflect, discuss, and open up new perspectives together!

In our two panel talks at KISD, where we’ll explore how design and visual culture shape our understanding of gender, bodies, and belonging — and how designers can challenge existing norms through critical and inclusive practices.

1 – Panel Talk on November, 13 th

»Pills & Power« — Design, Bodies & Norms
November 13, 5:30 PM @ KISD — Panel Talk
From 7:30 PM — open get-together and time to explore the exhibition

How do design and medicine influence our perceptions of gender and self-determination? This conversation brings together perspectives from medicine, activism, and design to rethink responsibility and power in visual and product design.

With
Pia Schüler, doctor and co-host of Heile Welt podcast, Cologne
Sanja Alessia Zündorf Zündorf, integrated designer and founder of Entzück dich selbst and
Prof. Tanja Godlewsky, creative director, activist and professor for gender in design

Moderation: Julie Tanqueray & Lucy Howe
Introduction: Uta Brandes & Prof. Iris Utikal

2 – Panel Talk on November, 18 th

»Space & Belongings« — Gender, Architecture & Urban Inclusion
November 18, 5:30 PM @ KISD — Panel Talk
From 7:30 PM — open get-together, conversations and exhibition

How can architecture, design, and urban planning foster inclusive spaces for gender fluidity and belonging? Experts from research, policy, and participatory design share perspectives on creating cities for everyone.

With
Anouchka Strunden, urbanist and moderator for participatory city design, Berlin
Stefanie Boulila, transdisciplinary social scientist at Lucerne University of Applied Sciences
Julia Pedersen, Equal Opportunity Officer for the City of Cologne and
Jan Filmer,  researcher on queer spaces at the University of Cologne

Moderation: Julie Tanqueray & Lucy Howe
Introduction: Prof. Iris Utikal

Seats are limited — please register here.

If you sign up, we would be delighted if you could make sure to attend – so that others don’t miss their chance.

We are looking forward to you! 🤩