In an era marked by unprecedented change and complexity, the Agency of design emerges as a pivotal notion that transcends the boundaries of the physical, social, cultural, and psychological realms. It beckons us to explore and question the very essence of design’s influence and interaction with the world around us.

What constitutes this agency? Is it confined to human endeavors, or does it extend to non-human, social, or political spheres? Intriguingly, the interplay between agency and the spectrum of rights, including inherent, treaty, and Aboriginal rights ascribed to Indigenous peoples, adds a layer of complexity to our understanding of design’s scope and influence.

The agency of design is not merely a theoretical construct but a dynamic force that resonates with the values and principles of our time. How, then, can design articulate these values without losing its unique identity, without becoming subsumed by pure science, engineering, or policy? The symposium seeks to delve into these intricate questions, unraveling the ways in which design can maintain its critical relationships with other disciplines while preserving its relevance and distinctiveness. How do we impart this understanding to the next generation of designers? How do we translate theory into practice, ensuring that design retains its agency.











The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Ojibwe-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Red River Métis. We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of Reconciliation and collaboration.