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(borderless visions on design, architecture and visual arts)

In 1971 Victor Papanek published his seminal text "Design for the Real World". The book thoughtfully examines the necessity of addressing 'real human needs' as opposed to the 'invented needs' created by the market. Papanek clearly exemplified how design can be incorporated into many areas of life and how it can be a tool to fight social injustice. In the era of Trump's wall, Brexit, and waves of backward-looking populism, Papanek’s conception of design as socially inclusive and welcoming of multidisciplinary contributions is as relevant as ever.

In our unstable, soul-searching, confused Europe, constantly questioning the essence of its shared culture within the expanse of its territory and its ethnic diversity, climate change and diminishing biodiversity are still open to multiple contributions, and interdisciplinary exchange is simply a necessity. Indeed, the preservation of diversity goes well beyond the recognition of its beauty. Rather, it is urgent that we ensure the emergence of intelligent design proposals.

As normalization and cultural standardization persist in their attack on the rich diversity of vitality, for the 2019 edition of Made Labs, the city of Syracuse will welcome a group of designers, architects and artists who, each in their own way, celebrate inclusivity as an essential element of design. MADE Labs will be hosted in the main building of the Academy, a XIX century building, as well as other venues in the heart of the island of Ortigia, the historic center of Siracusa, Sicily.