Post by Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)

“Authenticity is not only about making something beautiful.” -Sertac Ersayin Industrial designers have spent decades refining the aesthetics, usability, and desirability of products. But increasingly, another question is emerging: What else makes something feel authentic? Is it the material story? The evidence of craft? The decision to repair instead of replace? The willingness to choose a more responsible path, even when it’s harder? These questions sit at the heart of The Authenticity Project, the theme for the 2026 International Design Conference. Not because there’s a single answer. Because the most interesting conversations in design often begin when we challenge our assumptions about what we value. We’re looking forward to continuing that conversation with designers, educators, students, and industry leaders in Pasadena this August. #IDC2026 #TheAuthenticityProject #IndustrialDesign #IDSA #DesignLeadership #ProductDesign #DesignStrategy #SustainableDesign #DesignCulture