The International Council of Societies of Industries Design (Icsid) announced last week that it has designated Helsinki the World Design Capital (WDC) for the year 2012. The Finnish capital is the third city to receive the designation, which is given out every other year. It has previously been awarded to Turin (Torino), Italy, for 2008, and Seoul, South Korea, for 2010.According to a press release on the Icsid website, the WDC designation is "[a]ppointed to cities based on their accomplishments and commitment to design as an effective tool for social, cultural and economic development."
Finland is well-known for its design, ranging from traditional furniture and decor to modern technology, architecture, and interior design. This proud tradition includes individuals such as Eliel Saarinen and Alvar Aalto and brands such as Marimekko and Nokia.
In the Icsid press release, Helsinki Mayor Jussi Pajunen stated: "The decision to designate Helsinki as WDC 2012 brings great responsibility and we accept this title with an open mind and with great enthusiasm. It is an important accomplishment for the metropolitan region, as well as for Finland and will be celebrated with the consortium of municipalities and partners that supported our bid."
He added, "The WDC designation allows cities to demonstrate that design can be a catalyst for change. Helsinki is ready to be one of those cities and is eager to become a global role model in 2012."
For more on Helsinki design, visit the World Design Capital Helsinki 2012 website
Posts
0 comments:
Post a Comment