While preparing to attend the upcoming London Design Biennale presentation, I can’t help but feel excited about what promises to be one of the most compelling cultural events of 2025.
The fifth edition of this internationally acclaimed showcase will transform Somerset House from June 5th to 29th. From what I’ve learned up to now, it is set to be truly extraordinary.
Surface Reflections – A Theme That Speaks to Our Times .
The theme of this year at Design Biennale is “Surface Reflections”. It is carefully crafted by the Artistic Director Dr Samuel Ross MBE, who is also the visionary behind A-COLD-WALL* and SR_A. What strikes me most is the approach followed by Dr Ross with his understanding of how design shapes identity.
According to Dr Ross, “Revelations in life are prompted by personal histories that inform who we are – our ideas are fuelled by both our internal experiences and external influences.”
Having followed the work of Dr Ross for some time, I’m particularly drawn to his commitment to social change through design. One of the most notable milestones in his past work is the British Artist Grants Programme in 2020. It clearly demonstrates how creative leadership can actively foster inclusivity in the arts. This is a perspective that will undoubtedly influence the direction of Biennale.
Making Design Accessible.
One of the best things about this year’s Biennale is the introduction of £10 youth tickets. These tickets are exclusively available for visitors aged between 16-25, who can attend the event on weekdays.
With firsthand experience, I believe this is a great opportunity available for the young creatives to grab. It provides them with exposure to world-class design and accessibility initiatives. It also reminds me that design is not all about beautiful objects. It focuses more on creating pathways for the future innovators.
Somerset House – Creating the Perfect Stage
There’s something magical about selecting Somerset House as the venue. Over the past 25 years as a cultural destination, it is the home to one of the biggest creative communities that you can find in the UK. This year, the venue is celebrating its milestone, along with Biennale taking over everything from the Iconic Fountain Courtyard to Embankment Galleries. The building itself is a part of conversation on how historic spaces can empower contemporary innovation.
As someone who values the power of design to reflect and shape the world we live in, I’m eager to take part in this event. I’m also excited to see how the participants of this event will interpret “Surface Reflections”.
In our current moment, when questions of identity, representation, and global connection feel more urgent than ever, this Biennale promises to offer both mirror and window. It helps us reflects who we are, while opening new possibilities for who we might become.
Photography: Somerset House – Design Biennale.
