Design Matters with Debbie Millman

Olafur Eliasson, a renowned artist, explores the intersection of art and nature through his captivating installations and sculptures. In a thought-provoking discussion, he shares insights on his seminal works, like the 'weather project,' and their connection to climate awareness. Eliasson reflects on the relationship between art and perception, revealing how individual experiences shape our understanding of art. He also discusses the role of vulnerability in fostering emotional connections within public spaces, challenging listeners to rethink their interactions with art.

Carson Ellis, an acclaimed author and illustrator of bestselling picture books like "Home" and "Du Iz Tak?", discusses her fascinating life on a farm in Oregon. She reflects on her whimsical journey through art and identity, sharing memories of her unconventional upbringing and the creative struggles she faced. The importance of childhood literature, emotional depth in storytelling, and the process of visual storytelling are explored, as well as the lasting impact of illustrations in children's books. Dive into her inspiring artistic journey!

David Kwong, a magician and puzzle creator known for his work on films like Now You See Me, shares his journey blending magic and puzzles. He recounts childhood moments that sparked his passion and discusses the cultural implications of magic through academic insights. Kwong reveals his unique artistry, including a captivating trick with a dollar bill, and emphasizes the importance of storytelling in creative processes. He also touches on the rise of word games like Wordle, showcasing their appeal and social dynamics.

Frances Frei, a Harvard Business School professor and strategist for major companies, and Anne Morriss, a leadership consultant and author, discuss their new book, 'Move Fast and Fix Things.' They explore overcoming fears that hinder organizational change and share insights on innovation using Warby Parker as a case study. Their conversation dives into personal anecdotes reflecting on childhood, resilience, and the importance of diverse leadership. They also emphasize actionable strategies for fostering collaboration and driving transformation in workplaces.

Since 1998, David Remnick has been the editor of The New Yorker and has written hundreds of pieces for the magazine, including reporting from Russia, the Middle East, and Europe and Profiles of Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, Katharine Graham, Mike Tyson, Bruce Springsteen and more. He also hosts the magazine’s national radio program and podcast, “The New Yorker Radio Hour.” He joins live at the On Air Fest to talk about his legendary life and career.Want to help shape TED’s shows going forward? Fill out our survey! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Es Devlin, an acclaimed artist and stage designer, dives into her two-decade journey transforming performance art across theatres and stadiums. She reflects on childhood memories that shaped her creative philosophy and discusses the balance between technology’s grip on us and the authenticity of live experiences. Devlin highlights modern performance with immersive designs, sharing insights into her artistic evolution and the necessity of trusting instincts in creativity. With a blend of ambition and innovation, her narrative is both personal and inspiring.

Lucy Sante, a celebrated writer and cultural critic known for her insightful views on the demimonde, shares her journey of self-discovery in her latest memoir, “I Heard Her Call My Name.” She discusses the transformative nature of gender identity and the importance of embracing one's true self. Sante reflects on the influence of language as a tool for personal exploration, her literary evolution, and the challenges of navigating critique in the literary world. Through candid anecdotes, she illustrates the delicate interplay of identity, freedom, and authenticity.

Carol Leifer, a veteran stand-up comedian and award-winning writer, shares her journey through four decades in comedy. She reflects on the hurdles of being a female comedian in a male-dominated industry, including twenty-two auditions for The Tonight Show. Leifer offers insights on writing for iconic shows like Saturday Night Live and Seinfeld, emphasizing resilience and adaptability. Also discussed is her new book, which guides crafting humorous speeches, showcasing the powerful role of comedy in storytelling and connection.

Jon Batiste, a Grammy, Emmy, and Oscar-winning musician, shares his journey from a shy child to a confident performer. He discusses the profound impact of his New Orleans roots and family on his musical identity. The conversation touches on the intersection of music and spirituality, emphasizing authenticity and social impact. Batiste reflects on his collaborations and the legacy of gaming in fostering creativity, ultimately celebrating the power of music to connect people and inspire change.

Michael Goldberg, Founder and CEO of Something Special Studios, is a creative powerhouse behind brand-building and cultural experiences. He shares insights about the fascinating revival of Luna Luna, the world’s first art amusement park created by legendary artists like Salvador Dali. Michael recounts his journey from nightlife to entrepreneurship, highlighting key lessons in relationship-building. He also discusses the complex process of reviving a unique art experience while emphasizing the importance of authenticity in creative collaborations.