Chicago Design Week Call for Proposals
We are excited to announce a call for event proposals to shape the eighth annual Chicago Design Week—seven days worth of programming and events dedicated to a close examination of the fluid and evolving state of design and the role it plays in society. If your proposal is accepted, the Chicago Design Week committee will promote the event you organize. This is a unique opportunity to engage with the Chicago community to create relationships, explore ideas, challenge the status quo, and evolve the profession.

Proposals due
July 27th

Selections made
Week of September 3rd

The Evolving State of Design
As the world around us evolves at an ever-quickening pace, design is becoming an increasingly fluid pursuit. Regardless of discipline or focus, today’s practitioners are tasked with navigating an increasingly complex, shifting landscape. The definition of design is evolving away from traditional notions of craft towards something much broader—designers craft strategies rather than static artifacts, nimble and evolving systems rather than codified toolkits. Design as an output is viewed by a growing global audience as a critical tool for helping society come to terms with the complexities that surround us.

Design and the role it plays—like the world around us—is in a constant state of motion.

So this year, Chicago Design Week is focused on an examination of the evolving definitions, responsibilities, and societal expectations shaping the designer today.

Our Ask
We encourage all members of the design community to submit proposals for Chicago Design Week programming that explores this year’s Design in Motion theme. Interpretation in regards to topic and format is entirely up to you.

This call is open to all—Chicago-based or beyond. However a local representative is recommended since Chicago Design Week events should take place on Chicago turf, and you will be responsible for executing your idea.

The Chicago Design Week programming committee—a joint partnership between members of AIGA Chicago, Chicago Design Museum, the Society of Typographic Arts and MAS Context—will review all proposals for inclusion in the official Chicago Design Week programming slate.

Get in touch
For questions and inquiries contact Kelly Knaga at kel@chicago.aiga.org