Gijs Bakker of Droog Design will be the keynote speaker at a major conference taking place in Aberdeen in September which will explore the future for craft practice in a world where new technology and globalisation is making dramatic changes to our culture and lives.

The Challenging Craft conference will examine changes in craft practice which challenge traditional craft boundaries and consider the implications of new technology for craft.  Speakers include Jane Harris of Central Saint Martins, Paul Atkinson of the University of Huddersfield, Mah Rana, Kenji Toki and Grace Cochrane of the Powerhouse Museum Sydney.  There will also be a presentation on the innovative Connectivity Project

A daily ‘Parallel Tracks’ session involving three rooms with three papers a room will enable a wide range of ideas and views to be explored and encourage debate and discussion amongst delegates.

The conference offers makers, educators, researchers and theorists a unique forum to discuss and explore craft practice in the 21st century.

The Challenging Craft conference is being hosted by the Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen and will take place at the School of Management, Garthdee Road, Aberdeen from 8 to 10 September 2004.  The conference fee is £250 and £150 for full time students.  For further information and booking details visit www.challengingcraft.org

The conference is being organised by the Making Sense research group at Grays School of Art in collaboration with the Crafts Council, European Academy of Design and the Scottish Arts Council.