Tradition
Craft heritage, cultural knowledge, material traditions and local perspectives in contemporary accessory design.
Tallinn · 5–6 March 2027
International Symposium of Accessory Design
Tradition, research and future practice — a global gathering of educators, researchers, students, designers and industry at the Estonian Academy of Arts.
Open Call →
A dedicated international platform for accessory design.
Accessory design is taught, researched and practised across diverse disciplines and cultural contexts — yet opportunities for focused international exchange remain limited. This symposium creates a space to discuss how the field is evolving through education, research, technology, sustainability and professional practice, and to strengthen accessory design as a distinct, future-oriented discipline.
Themes
Research
Practice-based research, material innovation, experimental methodologies and emerging academic contributions.
Future Practice
Sustainability, digital technologies, entrepreneurship, new production models and changing professional landscapes.
What to Expect
International Keynotes
Leading voices from academia, industry and independent practice.
Presentations & Discussions
Research papers, case studies, educational projects and critical reflections.
Workshops
Hands-on sessions exploring materials, methods, technologies and teaching approaches.
Student Competition
Showcasing innovative projects developed within higher education.
Portfolio Café
Connecting students and emerging designers with professionals, studios and industry partners.
Curriculum Exchange Forum
A collaborative platform for pedagogical approaches, curriculum development and future cooperation.
Programme
Arrival & Networking
EKA tour, exhibition opening, welcome dinner, evening sauna.
Symposium Day I
Keynote, speaker sessions, parallel workshops, Old Town tour, dinner in Telliskivi.
Symposium Day II
Reflection, sessions, workshops, panel, Portfolio Café, sauna, dinner in Noblessner.
Closing & Departure
Morning sea swimming, museum visits.
Full programme coming soon. Core symposium 5–6 March; arrival & social programme 4–7 March.
Who Should Attend
- Educators & academic staff
- Researchers & doctoral candidates
- BA, MA & PhD students
- Designers & makers
- Industry professionals
- Curators & cultural practitioners
- Independent creatives
- Cross-disciplinary innovators across fashion, product design, craft, technology & material research
Key Dates
- June 2026Open Call launch
- September 2026Submission deadline
- October 2026Review process
- December 2026Programme announcement
- 5–6 March 2027Symposium
Open Call
Call for proposals is open
Share your work with an international audience. Deadline September 2026.