During this weekend, it has been held Blanc! Festival in La Daurada Group, in Vilanova i la Geltru, and has been a true feast of creativity, design and learning. This festival is not only a series of conferences, but an immersive experience that unites people who, like me, live, suffer and enjoy the design. Blanc! manages to combine a solid program with a close and familiar environment, making it a unique and enriching event. The rebellious, different and inspired atmosphere has left me full of ideas and with a desire to apply everything learned.
Day 1: Brand Identity
The first day, Thursday, October 24, focused on the branding and brand identity, essential themes for any design professional. Blanc! invited renowned experts as Design Base, Josep Maria Mir, Opasso, VICE, Bushos, Astrid Altadill, Brandemia and Solve, who guided us through strategies to build solid and authentic brands. The idea of the day was to explore the "nirvana of the brand"that essence that distinguishes a brand and gives it its reason to exist.
Among all the talks, one of my favorites was that of Bushos about "design-dependence." His presentation addressed how design can become a «visual addiction» that connects on an emotional level with the public. In addition, we were encouraged to do the Dependence test in pideayuda.org, a fun and revealing experience to see how "addicted" we are to the design. This first day was a perfect introduction to the universe of identity and branding, showing how every detail and decision contributes to a brand becoming something unforgettable.
He also attended Soluble's presentation and was super interesting. They talked about design from a more strategic perspective, something key to any project. One of the points I most liked was the focus on the naming strategy. It's amazing how a good name can make a difference in the perception of a brand.
In addition, it has been great to meet projects like Onum and Craftelier. A whole example of how design can boost differentiation!
It was also Brandesia's turn, a talk that was also super interesting. I have loved how you have highlighted the example of Nestea and its transformation to Fruzetea, showing how a well thought-out brand change can revitalize a product and connect again with consumers.
Another great example they have mentioned is the rebranding of Tous, a clear case of how the evolution of a brand can strengthen its identity and relevance in the market.
Day 2: Innovation and Strategy - Looking to the Future of Design
On Friday, October 25, the program changed focus to talk about innovation and strategy in design, with talks that led us to question the status quo and to understand the role of strategy in creativity. Among the speakers of this day were Laurène Girbal & Friedrich Althausen, Espadaysantacruz Studio, Monica Rikić, Mendesaltaren, Bit., The Clueless, Mariana Hernandez Delfino, JM Bway, Interactius and Nono Rueda.
One of the presentations that hit me most was that of Mariana Hernandez Delfinowho spoke about the Artificial intelligence and its impact on the design and future of the creative. His talk was a deep reflection on how technology is transforming creativity and what skills we must develop to adapt to an increasingly automated world.
Another memorable talk was that of JM Bway on the value of failure in professional growth. Your honesty and courage to share projects you consider «failures» It reminded all creative people of the importance of learning from every step, even the least successful. This day was a real dose of inspiration to continue to challenge the limits and think big.
Day 3: Creative Chaos - A Day to Explore and Learn
On Saturday, October 26, he focused on the creative chaos and how experimentation can open up new ways in design. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend the talks this last day in person, but one of the advantages of Blanc! is that they offer online entries to see the lectures recorded all year round. So I'll be able to enjoy the interesting presentations that were given!
Among the speakers of the day were prominent figures such as Gail Anderson, Blonde and the Master, Lara Costafreda, The mother-in-law, Sunday, No more Tinte, Rocío Egío, Carlota Juncosa, Nice studio., Off Course Studio, CRISIS Design Studio, Tom Roy, Clara Xarrié Studio and Pixelarte. The programming included topics that explored the unconventional, the provocative and what makes the design make us feel and think.
Reflections on Blanc!
Blanc! Festival It was more than an event; it was a experience. Learning from professionals who have found success in the sector and sharing these days with people who understand the value and impact of design has been unforgettable. The diversity of themes and the welcoming environment of Blanc! made this weekend feel special, rebellious and full of inspiration.
Blanc! is the ideal place for those who seek to go further in design, understand the stories behind the projects and learn from those who lead the sector. If you have the opportunity to attend future editions, I recommend you live this experience that will certainly make you see the design from a renewed perspective.
Did you also attend Blanc! 2024? Leave me your comments on the talks you enjoyed most or the topics that marked you!
UX / IU Designer and Digital Marketing Specialist
Creating intuitive experiences and effective strategies.
