International Conference on Arts & Crafts and Design CIMAD

Conversation Between Tradition and Innovation: Yesterday’s Know-how Facing Tomorrow’s Challenges

CIMAD 2025 offers a rich and multidimensional exploration of Arts & Crafts through the lens of design. This international event will bring together researchers, artisans, and professionals to analyse and exchange ideas about the tensions and synergies between preserving traditions and embracing contemporary innovations.

The discussions will focus on three key themes:

1. Encounters Between Heritage and Modernity: How are traditional skills adapting to today’s technological and societal challenges?
2. Frugality and Ecological Innovation: What sustainable solutions can craft practices offer in response to environmental concerns?
3. Ethical Responsibility in Craftsmanship: How do gender dynamics, community activation, and soft skills shape the future of the sector?

CIMAD will take place:

• in Saint-Étienne, at Les Forges building the first two days (26 – 27 May);
• in Lyon, at SEPR the last day (28 May).

Click here to download our call for papers in order to propose your paper or poster.

Applications are open until February 15th 2025.