Summer eXpression
Summer eXpression 2026 - in collaboration with Svensk form and the Kamprad Family Foundation. From design sketch to finished product in four summer weeks.
Creating new products from textile waste streams
Summer eXpression is a chance to roll up your sleeves, brainstorm, test, create and showcase. Together with local producers, experts and other designers, you will develop a product with circularity at its centre.
This year's theme is TRANSFORMATION.
What happens when we see residual materials as a resource instead of waste? Over four weeks, you will explore how textile waste streams can be transformed into something new through form, function and creative craftsmanship. The focus is on giving materials a new life and letting ideas take shape in the meeting between design, production and experimentation.
With the support of eXpression's coaches and experts, you will go through the entire process: from idea to prototype, from first sketch to a finished concept. All with sustainability, creativity and entrepreneurship as the driving force.
What you get:
- Four weeks of intensive summer training
- 10,000 reimbursement (via billing service)
- Access to workshops, tutorials and creative coaches
- Opening in Umeå
- Contacts, encouragement and perhaps the start of something much bigger
Design Challenge - first step towards Summer eXpression
Do you want to be part of Summer eXpression 2026?
Then this is your chance! Sign up for our Design Challenge on 21 April from 15.00 to 20.00 - an inspiring and creative afternoon where, together with other creators, you will explore textile waste materials and the possibilities of transforming them into something new.
If you cannot be in Umeå, there are the possibility to participate digitally during Design Challenge (for that meeting only). Please indicate this in the form when you apply for the programme.
Based on the material you choose, you will sketch out an idea or prototype - a first step towards what you want to develop further over the summer.
Your sketch will be your ticket to this year's Summer eXpression competition.
Deadline for registration: 17 April
In proud co-operation with:
Information about the programme
When: 8 June - 3 July 2026
Var: eXpression Umeå, Artistic Campus
For whom: If you are studying or working in the field of art, design, architecture, textiles, crafts or any other creative field.
Application: You can register via a form to participate in the eXpression Design Challenge on 21 April from 15:00 to 20:00. An expert panel will select the participants.
We offer digital participation during the Design Challenge.
Funders: Kamprad Family Foundation, European Regional Development Fund.
Partners: Swedish form
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