Theme 2023: Dissonance

Each year a new theme is presented to inspire, promote creativity and new ideas for an exciting program. The theme for Southern Sweden Design Days 2023 is dissonance.

Dissonance is a state of imbalance – a feeling that something is not right. A condition that affects us at both micro and macro level. Dissonance can be unsettling, but often gives rise to innovative development in its constant pursuit of harmony.

Dissonance in music is a combination of tones that create uneven pitches that do not follow a musical pattern. Chords and intervals that strive to dissolve into a consonance, a tension-free unison. Film and literature use dramaturgical models to keep the audience in suspense from start to finish. Conflicts that require resolution is the foundation for a driven storyline.

Dissonance can also occur on a personal level, as a sense of discomfort experienced by an individual when confronted by new information that conflicts with existing beliefs or values. At the same time, dissonance gives life uniqueness that allows for individuality, complexity, and variety. We appreciate people for their shortcomings and mistakes as much as for their strengths.

Dissonance can also be present on a societal level. We are currently navigating turbulent and uncertain times – an unstable and ever-changing existence calling for transition and adaptation. Overwhelming and uncomfortable facts and events are triggering disagreement and polarization. Nevertheless, dissonance is fundamental for a democratic society and a driving force for discussion, debate, and development. 

Dissonance is abrasive and creates mixed emotions. At the same time, dissonance can spark creativity and the desire to drive change. The value of a handmade object stems from its imperfections, tactility, and artistic expression. A DNA mutation results from errors in biological processes – a basis for evolution that has created an array of diversity of life on Planet Earth.