Mexico City is set to showcase a unique fusion of craftsmanship and contemporary design through the Crafting Design Futures residency. Organized by Design Doha as part of the collaborative Qatar, Canada, and Mexico 2026 Year of Culture initiative, this residency is a significant highlight of Design Week Mexico’s Visión y Tradición program. It features collaborations between international designers from the MENASA region and skilled master artisans from Mexico, fostering a rich exchange of creative experiences.
Exploring Global Perspectives in Design
Running from October 8 to November 1, 2026, at the National Museum of Anthropology, Visión y Tradición is a pivotal component of Design Week Mexico 2026 (DWM26). This year’s theme—“Perspectives from the Global South”—encourages dialogue about the importance of diverse creative viewpoints. By merging traditional craftsmanship with modern design techniques, the program allows designers to draw inspiration from Mexico’s rich cultural heritage while simultaneously showcasing their own backgrounds.
Innovative Collaborations and Techniques
The Crafting Design Futures residency highlighted the collaborative spirit between four outstanding designers and talented Mexican artisans. Syrian designer Kenan Alkuwatly partnered with distinguished engraver José Cruz, while Lebanese artist Shirine Sbaiti collaborated with ceramic experts Norberto and Rosi. Iranian designer Yasamin Shaikhi, based in Qatar, worked with Estudio Guerrero, and British-Indian architect Armaan Bansal engaged with Alan Pureco’s family workshop. Together, they explored a range of materials including glass, clay, ceramics, and hand-hammered copper, breathing fresh life into traditional crafting methods.
The residency emphasized the significance of collaborative creation. As the teams engaged in the crafting process, initial ideas often evolved, informed by the artisans’ extensive knowledge and techniques gained over generations. The final pieces not only reflect the designers’ original visions but also embody the contributions and insights of the artisans, showcasing a beautiful blend of cultures and craftsmanship.
Shifting Perspectives on Craft and Value
Fahad Al Obaidly, Director of Design Doha, emphasized that Crafting Design Futures aims to reframe how designers perceive craft. He noted, “Craft is not merely a method for executing a designer’s vision; it embodies a knowledge base in its own right.” Designers are encouraged to enter this experience with an open mind, allowing the expertise of artisans to reshape their concepts and the final product. This collaborative approach highlights the importance of spending time in the creative process, fostering deeper relationships with both materials and artisans.
In an increasingly fast-paced design world dominated by digital tools, this residency teaches a more sustainable and ethical approach to creative work. By emphasizing the importance of collaboration and respect for traditional craftsmanship, the program redefines value and authorship in design.
Contributions to Cultural Preservation
The Crafting Design Futures residency is not just a local initiative; it is part of a broader vision aimed at cultural exchange and preservation. As Qatar makes significant investments in its creative and design sectors, this program sheds light on the importance of traditional knowledge in contemporary artistic practice. The collaboration between designers from the MENASA region and Mexican artisans serves as a celebration of shared heritage and future creative landscapes.
As Mexico City prepares to host this innovative project, the Crafting Design Futures residency serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for cross-cultural collaboration to enrich the global design narrative. By blending the old with the new, it opens doors for future creative expressions rooted in tradition yet poised for modern relevance.