The adoption of robots and AI is likened to a modern form of colonialism by trend forecaster Li Edelkoort, who envisions a resurgence of Arts and Crafts in the near future. Edelkoort, a seasoned trend forecaster, expressed her deep-rooted passion for this field, emphasizing its profound influence on her life.
In a compelling dialogue with Dezeen deputy editor Cajsa Carlson at Downtown Design in Dubai, Edelkoort delved into her contemplation on the revival of Arts and Crafts, inspired by the works of renowned British designer William Morris from the 19th century. She articulated her yearning for whimsical and vibrant design initiatives, highlighting a desire for vivid colors, artistic motifs, and ornamental details.
Edelkoort anticipates a shift towards embracing our inner child in the coming years, noting a growing trend in this direction. Drawing parallels to childhood creativity, she referenced artist Max Lamb’s exhibition featuring cardboard furniture as a manifestation of this trend, underscoring the cyclical nature of creative inspiration.
Moreover, Edelkoort drew inspiration from Morris’ utopian novel, “News from Nowhere,” envisioning a future society where money is distributed in a manner distinct from traditional capitalist systems. She envisions a future characterized by a universal basic income system, fostering individual development amidst the increasing role of artificial intelligence in labor-intensive tasks.
The trend forecaster also highlighted the transformative impact of AI and robotics on societal norms, suggesting a paradigm shift towards a future detached from conventional notions of work and productivity. Edelkoort cautioned against the potential pitfalls of treating AI and robots as subservient entities, drawing parallels to a contemporary form of exploitation akin to colonial practices.
In a thought-provoking assertion, Edelkoort proposed the coexistence of an “Arts and Crafts world” alongside a realm dominated by technological billionaires, heralding what she terms the “age of the amateur.” This juxtaposition underscores the importance of creativity in redefining human purpose and identity in a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by automation.
Furthermore, Edelkoort emphasized the significance of embracing design influences from the Global South, celebrating the region’s diverse and innovative contributions to fashion, photography, and art. Her latest publication, “Proud South,” serves as a testament to the richness and creativity emanating from southern regions, offering a fresh perspective on design narratives.
Edelkoort’s forward-looking vision extends beyond individual trends, aiming to foster holistic well-being and happiness through design and cultural expression. By advocating for intrinsic happiness rooted in indigenous cultures and traditions, she seeks to address prevalent health and societal challenges, particularly among the younger generation.
As a proponent of positive change, Edelkoort remains actively engaged in initiatives like the World Hope Forum, a collaborative platform dedicated to sharing uplifting stories and promoting a sense of optimism amidst global uncertainties. Through this endeavor, she endeavors to inspire meaningful transformations and instill hope for a brighter future.
In her unwavering commitment to fostering positive change and embracing cultural diversity, Li Edelkoort continues to shape the discourse on design, trends, and societal progress, offering a compelling vision for a more harmonious and creative world.
