eXpression Umeå's summer programme, Summer eXpression, has taken a new step in its development this year. For the first time, the young designers have been supported by an advisory board, consisting of five experts from different areas of design and production.

On 17 August, these experts were in Umeå to listen to the designers' final presentations and give their final comments. Today, 18 August, eXpression Umeå invites you to an open Showroom where all the design prototypes will be presented to the public.

The programme's advisory board consists of

• Malin Wåhlström, Purchasing Manager Designtorget AB, with expertise in marketing and purchasing.
• Ola Rune, architect from Claesson Koivisto Rune, specialising in design and layout.
• Linn Backman Hallberg, sustainability specialist with a focus on circular sustainability.
• Jon Eliasson, from Jon Eliason Design Studio, with a background in design and layout.
• Peter Jiseborn, representative from Interior Cluster Sweden, former CEO of Swedese and Abstracta, with insight into production and manufacturing.

The experts on the Advisory Board used three key criteria to assess the design ideas:

1. Sustainability: The focus is on the choice of materials and production methods, with a particular emphasis on circular solutions. Reuse is prioritised over recycling. It also assesses the lifespan and relevance of products and whether the product creates an emotional connection with the buyer.
2. Working height: This assesses the uniqueness of the design and whether it is so distinctive that it can be protected by, for example, design protection.
3. Feasibility: This criterion focuses on the production aspects, including estimated costs, time and the possibility of finding suitable manufacturers. It also assesses the potential market attractiveness of the product.

During the programme, participants and experts collaborated through the Miro digital tool. There the designers have been able to publish their design idea, target group, inspiration and mood board. In June, a digital meeting was held between the Advisory Board and the participants, where each designer presented three design ideas and received valuable feedback.

The design prototypes produced during the seven weeks of the programme have really shown a high level of craftsmanship and timeless design. I wouldn't be surprised if we see some future design classics among these prototypes. Our Advisory Board has been incredibly engaged and has really added a lot to the work," says Fanny Lindénwhich is responsible for the programme.

Summer eXpression offers young designers the chance to take their design from idea to prototype during the summer. After a presentation and assessment by the Advisory Board in August, certain design ideas are selected for further development into finished products. The programme is part of eXpression Umeå's broader offering, which includes business support, training and a community for creative entrepreneurs.

PHOTO: Jonas Eltes