Call for Papers: Revisiting Design History: Global Cross-Cultural Interactions and Narratives

Conference & Events

31 March, 2025

In today's increasingly globalised world, the discipline of design history faces the imperative to reassess and broaden its perspectives. Traditional studies have often centred on Western viewpoints, overlooking the Global South's rich design traditions and innovations. Incorporating these diverse voices enriches and deepens our understanding of global design history.

Cross-cultural interactions play a significant role in the evolution of design. Exchanges between different cultures enhance the richness of design practices, drive the development of design theories, and diversify historical narratives. This online conference aims to explore how these cross-cultural exchanges have shaped design practices, theories, and historical narratives. By revisiting design history, we seek to uncover overlooked narratives and promote a more comprehensive understanding of global design heritage. This endeavour contributes to constructing a more inclusive and representative framework for design history, reflecting diverse practices and perspectives worldwide.

The conference invites contributions addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Trade Routes as Conduits for Design Exchange
- The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Design
- Influence of Religion on Design
- Globalization and the Emergence of Cross-Cultural Design
- Trans-National/cross-cultural Influence and Exchange
- Re-evaluating traditional design historiographies
- Crossed histories, contact zones and new historiographies

We encourage students, early-career researchers, and scholars from diverse backgrounds to present their work. The conference aims to foster critical discussions and collaborations that will contribute to the development of a more inclusive and representative design history discipline.

Format: Paper Presentations

Abstract Submission: 250-300 words outlining the research focus, methodology, and contribution to design history. Please include a short biography (max. 100 words) with your submission. Format free.

All submissions should be made via this form: https://forms.office.com/e/ekA6xK7z20

Key Dates
Submission Deadline: 5pm, 30th April 2025
Notification of Acceptance: 14th May 2025
Conference Date: 14th June 2025

For any queries, please contact:
Pippy Stephenson pippystephenson@gmail.com
Dan Mu s2265555@ed.ac.uk
Dr Jenna Allsopp-Douglas designhistorysociety@gmail.com

We look forward to your contributions and to fostering an engaging discussion on the global perspectives of design history.