Geelong Design Week has attracted and “inspired” more than 6000 participants, according to council.
Geelong Design Week delivered 69 events showcasing local design and creativity from March 18 to 28.
A total of 54 local designers, artists and innovators hosted events across the 10-day program, which included mural painter Rone’s major exhibition at Geelong Gallery.
The new Open Studios Trail attracted 819 people, who followed a path to discover 15 local artists across the Bellarine Peninsula.
Almost a third of the 2021 audience came from outside greater Geelong, which showed the potential for Geelong Design Week to become a flagship destination event, according to councillor Peter Murrihy
“Geelong Design Week is a unique opportunity to showcase and learn more about the breadth of talent and creativity we have in the region,” said Cr Murrihy, council’s economic development chair.
“Congratulations to all the hosts for delivering such high-calibre events and thank you to everyone who participated for supporting the creative industry in greater Geelong.”
About 95 per cent of attendees said they would return in 2022, according to council surveys.
Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher said the strong attendance rate demonstrated the region’s passion for creativity and design.
“As a UNESCO City of Design, celebrating clever design and creativity is part of our culture,” Cr Asher said.
“Our commitment to innovation and creative problem solving will play a major role in preserving sustainability and liveability across our region into the future.”
Geelong Design Week will return in 2022, with applications to participate opening this September at www.geelongdesignweek.com.au.
