Agenda – BlendBCN

Blend aims to navigate the intricate synergy between human intelligence and creativity amidst a world in turmoil. Our event content champions the boundless ingenuity of creatives who continuously forge new pathways, actively collaborate and pave the way for a brighter future.

But it will also serve as a beacon of hope. Attendees are invited to witness first-hand how the power of creativity can fuel transformative change and valuable solutions.

We’ll unleash the power of neurodiversity, helping the creative industry and brands reach new heights in innovation, growth and profitability.

Where:

Hall 4, Fira Montjuïc, Av. Reina Mª Cristina, s/n, 08004 Barcelona

Getting here

2024 AGENDA

09:30 – 10:15 / ARRIVAL AND REGISTRATION

10:15 – 10:20 / WELCOME TO BLEND

INTRODUCTION

Our host will describe the unique Blend journey attendees will experience throughout the day. Expect to go beyond the traditional boundaries of creativity, inspiration, tech and entertainment.

10:30 – 11:10 / STUDIO SESSION #1

LOCAL HEROES

Moderator: Isabelita Virtual
Panelists: Laura Serra – Canada Canada;
Luis Conde – Fuego Camina Conmigo;
Margarita Sader – Paradiso Bar & Restaurant;
Anton Aluja-Olesti – TDB Arquitectura

Barcelona has risen to become an international hub of contemporary creativity. Hear from some of the region’s pre-eminent creative professionals – including artists, sculptors, digital leaders and fashion designers – about what makes them tick.

11:20 – 12:00 / STUDIO SESSION #2

CREATIVE LEADERS & FORWARD THINKERS

Moderator: Isabelita Virtual
Panelists: Dora Osinde – Ogilvy;
Joana Astolfi – Artist & Architect, Studio Astolfi;
Steven Apampa – EMEA Nike Football (Athletes)
Miren Maranon – Production Designer

A lively discussion on groundbreaking approaches and emerging trends reshaping the creative landscape. Discover how creative leaders are prioritising inclusive visual representations that reflect diverse experiences. Explore the innovative methods transforming creativity and the exciting ideas that will define the future of our industry.

12:10 – 12:35 / BLEND SPOTLIGHT #1

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL: THE COLLABORATIVE JOURNEY ON AI & SELF

Speaker: Harry Yeff aka Reeps100, digital artist and vocal performer

In his keynote, Reeps100 will present a captivating five-minute performances. He’ll share the dedication behind his craft and discuss his pioneering collaborations with A.I. as a neurodiverse thinker. Harry will illustrate how his unique perspective has propelled his creativity and led to significant achievements.

12:40 – 12:55 / WORKSHOP PRESENTATION
by FAD / MATERFAD

CHANGING THE WAY WE LOOK AT MATERIALS

Speaker: Robert D. Thompson, Scientific Director at MATERFAD

Our world is made up of materials that we often don’t know or pay attention to. And yet, materials are at the core of everything that surrounds us and the performance, sustainability and aesthetics of any project or product depend on them. Participants will be inspired by a new way to approach materiality. Exploring different material families with samples and contributing to empower them as material makers.

13:00 – 13:15 / SNAPCHAT SHOWCASE

FROM IMAGINATION TO REALITY

Speakers: Resh Sidhu & Ben Feuerstein, Co-Founders of Arcadia

In this inspiration session, Resh Sidhu and Ben Feuerstein will reveal the craft and storytelling prowess behind Snapchat’s transformative AR experiences. This talk will cover their methods, insights and idea development, immersive design, and relentless innovation, all of which contribute to Snap’s creation of world-class AR experiences. During the talk, Resh & Ben will delve into Arcadia’s array of best-in-class AR projects, developed in partnership with leading brands like L’Oreal, Nike, and LEGO.

13:15 – 14:30 / LUNCH & COLLABORATE

Dine and network in our exquisite open-air food space. During the break, we also invite you to join one of our multi-disciplinary collaboration workshops:

SOULFUL SOUND BATH: Get your creative juices flowing with an immersive soulful sound bath guided by Anuli Eze at Soul Sound Journeys, Ravid on Hand Pan and vocals from Eva Sola. The session will be accompanied by live visuals from Desilence.

MATERFAD WORKSHOP with Q&A & art installations “Our world is made up of materials that we often don’t know or pay attention to. And yet, materials are at the core of everything that surrounds us and the performance, sustainability and aesthetics of any project or product depend on them.” Participants will be inspired by a new way to approach materiality. Exploring different material families with samples and contributing to empower them as material makers.

ANIMAZE SHORT FILM PREVIEWS and showing of Agniia Galdanova’s film at the Main Auditorium

MUT is a local design studio formed by a multidisciplinary team. Discover their installation about conversation of forms, an experience full of stimuli, an interaction with materials

MANS O is a multi-disciplinary artist focused on rhythmic experimentation through sound and movement. His live performance starts at 14:00

14:30 – 15:10 / STUDIO SESSION #3

AI & CREATIVITY: ENCOUNTERING TOMORROW’S CHALLENGES. WILL MACHINES EVER OUTSHINE US IN OUR ABILITY TO CREATE?

Moderator: Liam Aldous
Panelists: Xavier Cardona – Boldatron;
Resh Sidhu – SnapChat;
Rahmon Agbaje – Loud Parade;
Chamo San – Murex Studio

A candid discussion on AI’s role in creativity. Exploring how augmented intelligence is transforming art, music, and design, and whether machines can surpass human creativity or merely assist. We’ll also address the geopolitical implications of AI in creative industries and its environmental impact, considering its role in sustainability. The session will conclude with a Q&A to exchange ideas on AI’s influence on creativity and its broader consequences.

15:20 – 15:35 / BLEND SPOTLIGHT #2

CULTURAL FUSION: REMIXING ART, TECHNOLOGY & TRADITION 1

Speakers: Desilence, visual artists

How can technology – and the art that comes from it – remain rooted in history? Is this outcome even that desirable? Multi-disciplinary artists, Desilence, examine the inherent tension in merging tech with tradition. Witness the collision of artist aesthetics and digital disruption.

15:45 – 16:00 / BLEND SPOTLIGHT #3

Speaker: Solimán López, new media conceptual artist and researcher

Techno consciousness and a concept of the new media art for a better future.

15:50 – 16:30 / Dome experience with Makoto

Makoto Inoue will take over the Dome as the final session in our immersive audio-visual space, allowing the visuals respond dynamically to the music.

16:15 – 17:00 / STUDIO SESSION #4

ALL HAIL THE DISRUPTORS! THE UNORTHODOX ROAD TO SUCCESS

Moderator: Liam Aldous
Panelists: Trevor “Trouble” Andrew aka GucciGhost;
Neil Floyd – Set Decorator;
Agniia Galdanova – Film Director / Writer;
Manon Dave – Music producer and app developer

Come as you are! A talk with multidisciplinary creatives who have taken unorthodox routes to success as they share their stories and the work that led them to remarkable milestones despite facing adversity. This is an authentic look at navigating different creative fields while staying true to oneself.

17:15 – 17:45 / BLEND SPOTLIGHT #4

NARRATIVE ALCHEMY: THE WORLD IS ON FIRE!

Speaker: Misan Harriman, photographer, filmmaker & activist

In a world that is ‘always on’, how can creative narratives shape global perspectives, societal norms and social paradigms? Visionary photographer, Misan Harriman, takes us on a journey through his own pioneering approaches and groundbreaking storytelling techniques.

18:00 – 18:30 / DRINKS & LIVE PERFORMANCE

Renowned for embodying Ibiza’s essence, Melon Bomb will close out the Blend festival with their global grooves. Get ready to dive into an electrifying dance session that perfectly sets the mood for the exciting MIRA Digital Art Festival.

19:00 – 05:30 / ART, MUSIC & PERFORMANCE

MIRA FESTIVAL

You’re feeling creatively refreshed and inspired… so let’s have some more fun at MIRA, Barcelona’s digital arts and contemporary music festival.
Ticket only.