Design Minded: A Panel Discussion Exploring Design For All

co-presented with Design Austin

Design Minded is an event series created by Design Austin in partnership with The Contemporary Austin. Showcasing the talented work of architects, designers, and artists in Austin and beyond, we invite you to join us for inspiring film screenings and thought-provoking talks and meet other design-minded creatives.

As the second event in the Design Minded series, we’re excited to bring together a panel of designers, architects and urban planners to explore the concept of Design For All and how inclusivity, accessibility, and belonging are carried in their practices.

Stay tuned for the lineup of speakers.

Tickets include access to view the exhibitions on view, complimentary drinks, and admission to the panel discussion. Feel free to arrive early to view our current exhibitions.

The museum and rooftop are wheelchair accessible and there will be a designated mobility assisted seating area in the front row. American Sign Language interpretation will be a part of this talk. If you need additional accommodation requests, please email [email protected].

This program is co-presented by Design Austin

 

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ABOUT DESIGN AUSTIN

Design Austin illuminates the impact of design for all.

Here, we explore, imagine, and shape the future.

Design Austin programming builds awareness of how design shapes the world, connects diverse design communities, and sparks conversation about design in all its forms. We provide:

  • Experiences, exhibitions, and educational programs that put design in the context of arts, culture, science, and technology;
  • Accessible, welcoming, and inspiring spaces for visitors of all ages and abilities; and
  • Playful and serious explorations of the impact of design at every scale and field.

     

    About the Panelists

     
    Moderator: Gerardo Gandy

    Gerardo’s work shapes the built environment and fosters meaningful connections. With a background in architecture, interior design, and experience strategy, Gerardo creates seamless user experiences, dynamic spaces, and meaningful brand engagements. Gerardo is a member of the steering committee for Gensler’s Community Impact Program, and the founding Chairman of the ACE Mentor Program of Austin. He also serves on the Business Advisory Council for the Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders and has played key roles within AIA Austin, including as Outreach Commissioner and Chair of the Exhibitions and Experiences Committee. Gerardo’s accolades include AIA Austin’s Associate Member of the Year, the Austin Under 40 Award in Architecture, Construction, and Engineering, and BD+C’s National 40 Under 40 in Architecture.

     
    Kate Canales

    Kate Canales is a Professor of Practice and a founding leader of the School of Design and Creative Technologies (SDCT) at The University of Texas at Austin, where she served for six years as the inaugural Department of Design Chair. Kate’s work explores the ways in which creativity and design can transform the way we work in any sector. She teaches design ethnography, generative prototyping, and leads project studios, drawing from her early work as a product designer and creative director - first at IDEO and later at frog. Kate is also co-founder of TWOxTWO studio and The Summer Studio, which help organizations grow their creative capacity through design and innovation. Recent clients include Southwest Airlines, RŌKA and KUT.

     
    Raasin McIntosh

    Raasin McIntosh is a visionary leader, creative force, and Track and Field Olympian dedicated to transforming communities through the arts. As the Founder of Raasin in the Sun and Vice President of Urban Activation at the Downtown Austin Alliance, she specializes in cultural and creative placemaking, public art initiatives, as well as cross-disciplinary collaborations. She holds a BA in Communications from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MA in International Communications from Texas Southern University. She completed a two-year program with Mural Arts institute Philadelphia. Driven by a humanitarian mission, Raasin strengthens the city's cultural identity while fostering economic opportunities for artists and creatives.

     
    Natale Stephens

    Natale Stephens is a Certified Healthcare Architect, Principal, and Regional Healthcare Director at Page. She specializes in medical planning, including critical and ambulatory care, pediatric, and mental health facilities. Natale engages in research, mentorship, as well as authoring articles and white papers on the impact of the environment on behavior, health, and well-being. She has a passion for universal design and engages in a balanced approach between industry best practices and innovative design that pushes the need for evolution in building technology, care delivery, and facility operations.

     
    Aaron Taylor

    Aaron’s 25 years of experience includes a range of new construction and renovation work on laboratories, museums, higher education, mixed-use developments, low-income multifamily housing, and shelters for the homeless and those experiencing domestic violence. His recent work has focused on projects for the Texas School for the Deaf - where issues of inclusivity and accessibility are at the foundation of creating spaces that embody a renewed sense of belonging for the deaf community. He is an active participant in the building process from feasibility studies through design and construction administration. Aaron co-chairs McKinney York’s design committee and is adept at walking the tightrope of practicality and good design.