All I have to ask is when will this be coming to the United States? From their site, here is a synopsis of Explore Design:

Explore Design is a structured 2-day event where students will be provided with the information required to pursue an education, and ultimately a career in the world of design.Within an urban, contemporary and experiential environment, a consortium of educational institutions, associations and professional groups will be assembled to provide students interested in design with the knowledge required to make an educated decision about college and university design programs.

A complete interactive experience will be provided to students through seminar programs offered by select design professionals, leading educators and champions of design from the business community. Demonstrations and hands-on workshops will provide students with insight into different design careers. To complete the design experience Explore Design will present internationally recognized design professionals and design celebrities who will provide inspirational presentations and talks.

This is just excellent. I have always hated how fine arts are seen as a “special”. Something extra that you do when you are not reading, writing, and solving equations. I have felt that the designer is going to be an increasingly important profession as we continue through this millennium. It incorporates multiple disciplines and requires smart, ingenious, and creative professionals…not just a bunch of people that can draw well. I think this is a step in the right direction because it validates what designers and artists do everyday in the eyes of teachers, parents, and students. I hope it is success…and I hope it comes to Chicago.