In 2026, Danske Kunsthåndværkere & Designere will mark its 50th anniversary, providing an opportunity to take stock of the sector’s political milestones and shortcomings. Denmark has not had a new design policy since 2007, and the sector is in dire need of political attention.
The panel brings together key voices from the crafts and design sectors to discuss the visions, values and structural frameworks that should shape the sector going forward.
The discussion will focus, among other things, on:
- Conditions and development opportunities for craftspeople and designers
- Sustainability and responsibility in production and design
- Education, talent development and professional expertise
- Career opportunities and international positioning
- The interplay between tradition, innovation and social responsibility
Meet, among others:
Anne-Louise Sommer, Director, Designmuseum Denmark
Mathilde Aggebo, Dean, The Royal Danish Academy
Lise Thomsen, Head of Creative Industries, the Confederation of Danish Industry
Hanne B. Sønnichsen, Chair, Danish Crafts & Design
Lisbeth Nørskov Poulsen, Chief Executive Officer, Dreyers Fond.
Esben Danielsen, Director, Kulturens Analyseinstitut
Moderator: Christina Melander, Chief Design Officer, Danish Design Centre
Please note that the debate will be held in Danish
PROGRAMME 1 May 2026
16:00 Welcome by the organisers
16:05–16:15: 1 May address by the moderator
16:15–17:15 Debate on new Danish design policy
17.15–17.45: Networking and refreshments
17.45: Thank you for joining us today
Venue: Designmuseum Danmark.
Registration deadline: 27 April 2026
Participation is free upon registration.
Get your ticket here
Theme: Policy
Denmark needs a new design policy, but what should it include in order to accommodate independent craft artists and designers? Formkraft explores this question through interviews, articles and debates.