With global emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, the (imagined) barriers between Design, Technology and Craft have blended even more. Gunjan Gupta (Designer, Founder & Creative Director, Studio Wrap & IKKIS), Maria Cristina Didero (Independent Design Curator & Author), Meneesha Kellay (Senior Curator, Contemporary, Victoria & Albert Museum, London & Independent Writer), in conversation with moderator Megha Kapoor (Independent Editor & Creative Director), address how the advocacy for public culture and its access to design and craft can be aided with technology — and how we can ensure that the binary of urban design and local craftspersonship remains collaborative.
Generously supported by JSW, the IAF 2025 Talks Series, Growing Focus, curated by independent researcher and curator Shaleen Wadhwana, examines the increasing prominence of South Asia within contemporary art, design and culture. The series highlights the efforts of People of the Global Majority — comprising more than 80 per cent of the world’s population, with roots in Indigenous, African, Asian and Latin American cultures — who are asserting their presence across arts and cultural ecosystems. Amid the ongoing decentering of dominant ‘Global North’ narratives, it frames this moment not merely as a response to decolonisation but as landmark, historic self-determination. We explore this impact for audiences today and every day.
Gunjan Gupta: Gunjan Gupta holds a Master’s in Furniture Design from Central Saint Martins, London. She founded Studio Wrap, an interior and furniture design studio, and IKKIS, a brand reimagining classical forms for modern homes. Her work explores cultural paradoxes, Indian craftsmanship, and societal norms through playful, collectible design objects and curatorial projects
Maria Cristina Didero: Maria Cristina Didero is a Milan-based independent design curator and author. She worked with Vitra Design Museum for 14 years and has curated exhibitions worldwide, including at Design Miami as Curatorial Director. Her notable projects span institutions from the V&A London to the Benaki Museum Athens, earning recognition including Design Miami/Basel’s Best Curatorial Award.
Meneesha Kellay: Meneesha Kellay, Senior Curator, Contemporary at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), works across art, architecture, design, and performance. She commissions displays, installations, and performances, including the Friday Late programme, while developing a major exhibition for V&A East (2027). Co-curator of the award-winning British Pavilion at Venice Architecture Biennale 2023, Kellay previously worked at RIBA and the Architectural Association School of Architecture.
Megha Kapoor: Megha Kapoor is an acclaimed editor, creative director, writer, and stylist known for her timeless aesthetic and commitment to diverse voices. As former editor of Vogue India, she drove the publication’s global expansion while championing Indian creativity and establishing a new visual language. Born in India, raised in New Zealand, and based in Australia, she brings a global perspective while honoring her cultural heritage.
