There are a handful of design fairs that regional designers attend religiously. This is where they hob nob, catch up with industry colleagues, and get their fill of inspiration in the field of lighting design. In terms of personal growth as a designer and education in lighting, these international fairs, particularly Light + Building by Messe Frankfurt, is where the learning is taking place for our region’s talent. 

Most designers feel that students would stand to gain a lot more with hands-on practical experience. These designers are more than happy to be part of the design curriculum in local schools to help further this field of education.

Regarding local fairs, such as Light Middle East, the senior and experienced designers find these as more of a platform to educate outwards to aspiring designers.

With regards to design schools, most designers agree that the art and design programs do not have sufficient, in-depth lighting courses. And there is a big practical and workshop quotient missing from the majority of the degree programs within the region. Most designers feel that students would stand to gain a lot more with hands-on practical experience. These designers are more than happy to be part of the design curriculum in local schools to help further this field of education.