NYCxDESIGN is guided by core values of community, creativity, inclusivity, diversity, and sustainable design for the greater good. Beyond our annual Festival, our year-round programming provides a platform for NYC’s diverse design talent, from students and emerging designers to seasoned professionals. Each program fosters connection, education, and inspiration — empowering the next generation to use design as a powerful tool for positive impact, and address the world’s most pressing needs.

NYCxDESIGN Keynote: AI: Sci-fi to Society

Technology x Design
Partnered with IBM
As artificial intelligence moves from the realm of science fiction into daily reality, how is it reshaping the future of design? IBM gave us an inside look at how one of the world’s largest and most established creative organizations is adopting, developing, and integrating AI into the heart of its design practice.
This 90-minute session featured speakers from IBM’s Blue Studio, IBM iX, and collaborators from the creative community, who explored how AI is being used to scale storytelling, generate brand imagery, and power immersive experiences. From designing custom generative imagery for workplaces and global image libraries to experimenting with data-driven installations at events like The Masters, this conversation examined the opportunities and ethical considerations of this new frontier.
A 60-minute reception and networking session with light bites and refreshments followed, offering time to connect and continue the conversation.
Presenters
Sadek_Bazaraa
Sadek Bazaraa
Global Creative Director, IBM Blue Studio
Charles_Flexon
Charlie Flexon
Global Creative and Practice Director of Environments, IBM Blue Studio
Cory_Calhoun
Cory Calhoun
Executive Producer, IBM Blue Studio
Colleen_Yates
Colleen Yates
Associate Creative Director, IBM Blue Studio
Xander_Marritt
Xander Marritt
Executive Creative Director at FIELD.IO
Marcus_Wendt
Marcus Wendt
Founder and Chief Creative Officer of FIELD.IO
Andrew_Demas
Andrew Demas
Partner, IBM iX Strategy & Transformation Service Line
Partners

IBM Headquarter

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