Design associations in Latin countries: Tradition, identity, and new perspectives in the ICT era

Abstract

The aim of this work is to analyse the topic of professional associationism in the fi eld of design. This is a phenomenon which has contributed in defining several aspects, not just in regulatory terms, of the “trade” of designer, encouraging its rapid dissemination in the contemporary society and making it one of today’s most appealing professions at international level. Its priority is to see whether there is a Latin tradition which has historically marked the evolution of associationism. We will also try to understand whether the contamination between the sphere of design and the world of art and craft can be considered among those constants that can be used to interpret the issue. Lastly, but equally important, we will analyse the possibility of creating a system of shared connection based upon current information and communication technology, in order to build up a relationship between many subjects. We think that the use of an “institutional” tool (such as university research) to read and understand the phenomenon, can help to shed light on the different aspects of the discipline.

Key words: design associations, profession, tradition, identity, knowledge network, ICT.