During the confinement period, Saint-Étienne (France), a UNESCO Creative City of Design, has mobilised its cultural institutions, notably within the design sector, to offer its inhabitants access to various creative contents and activities.
The Cité du design, a platform for higher education, research, and promotion of design and arts, has launched a call for posters to graphic designers as part of the project ‘COVID-19 solidarity and support between UNESCO Creative Cities of Design’. The submitted posters will be displayed during the Shenzhen Design Week, scheduled for July 2020.
The Cité du design has also adapted its ‘Innovation Residency’ programme to allow projects with a strong innovation potential to develop a dynamic and participatory way to support enterprises in the post-COVID-19 recovery phase.
The Designers+ Association is also working to support local design professionals by disseminating official information, particularly concerning assistance provided to enterprises and freelancers. The Association in addition organizes webinars to foster exchange and discussions amongst its members.
Under the leadership of the city, other arts sectors have been mobilized to compensate for the closure of the various cultural venues. On top of offering free digital books, the Media Library of Saint-Étienne has for instance collaborated with the music playlist of the Consultative Committee on Arts and Culture, a body created by the municipality, to allow residents discover the city’s musical talents and increase their visibility.
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