9th International Design Conference & 16th Review of Student Design 14.5.–15.5. 2026
AGRAFA 2026 – Cycles
This time, we would like to invite you to explore the multidimensional meaning of cycles in the world of design. We focus on a systemic approach to design, where every action generates complex reactions in interconnected areas. Our attention is centered on sustainable development and the circular economy, as well as natural cycles as a source of inspiration for contemporary design. The event reflects on the iterative nature of the design process and the role of time in design, exploring the tension between linear and cyclical perceptions of reality. We pay particular attention to the balance between technology and nature, and the role of the designer as a conscious agent of social change.
The event will consist of:
- an international conference
- an international review of student design
- a conference for young designers – students and doctoral students
- consultations, exhibitions, and workshops
Speakers
The organisers of the AGRAFA’26 CONFERENCE would like to thank everyone who responded to our invitation and submitted proposals for presentations on the topic of CYCLES. Applications came from various parts of Poland, Europe and the world – Austria, Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States and Mexico. We were impressed by your professionalism and your unique and inspiring approach to visual communication and design.
The conference’s scientific committee, consisting of:
Dr hab. Justyna Kucharczyk, Prof. ASP
Dr hab. Jacek Mrowczyk, Prof. ASP
Dr hab. Agnieszka Nawrocka, Prof. ASP
Dr hab. Zofia Oslislo-Piekarska, Prof. ASP
Dr hab. Anna Pohl, Prof. ASP
Dr hab. Justyna Szklarczyk-Lauer, Prof. ASP
selected two speakers based on the close relationship between the proposed topic and our main themes, as well as taking into account the need to present a variety of topics, media and methods. They are: Enrico Bravi and Guillermo Flores Pacheco.
Discounted accommodation with our partner Hotele Diament:
Hotel Plaza Diament Katowice****
Park Hotel Diament Katowice****
Hotel Diament Arsenal Palace****
Location: the conference will be held at the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice, in the Open Hall in the building at 50 Raciborska Street.
More information for conference participants coming soon!
Review
We invite all students to share their work! Show us what you are working on, experimenting with, and what moves you. Individual works on any topic can be submitted for review, with the exception of graduation projects (thesis and degree projects). We will soon make the application form available – keep an eye on the website!
In addition to individual student submissions, last year’s edition of the event introduced a new element to the competition format: studio/class presentations. The aim of this expansion was to create a platform for the exchange of experiences and enrichment of knowledge about different approaches to designer education, as well as to promote and popularize the activities of individual studios/class. The results encourage us to continue. We will accept applications in the form of short videos. The film/animation should present the studio’s/class’ program and how it addresses the issues related to the competition theme “Cycles.”
Deadline for entries: February 16 th 2026!
Selection jury
Young Agrafa
Young Agrafa 2026 is an event accompanying the Agrafa 2026 conference – a platform dedicated to young designers, offering them the opportunity to present their ideas and reflections to a wider audience. We are currently inviting applications from students of design-related universities, as well as graduates who defended their BA, MA, or PhD no earlier than 2024.
The event will take place on 14 May 2026 (12:00–15:00) at the Academy of Fine Arts in Katowice. Each selected speaker will deliver a 10-minute presentation in English, supported by a visual presentation.
Applications are open until February 28, and the list of selected speakers will be announced on March 23. Participation is free of charge; however, we do not provide honoraria. We recommend that speakers seek possible travel reimbursement from their home institutions.
You can find the application form and more details here:
New information coming soon, but in the meantime, here’s a reminder from the previous edition.
Team
Curators
Program Council
Graphics and promotion
Organizing
Organiser
Partners
Media patronage
