NEWS

Milan and Chicago, 1^st September, 2021 - Dorchester Industries, the design and manufacturing arm of Theaster Gates Studio, and Prada Group, announced the launch of Dorchester Industries Experimental Design Lab, a three-year program that will serve as a platform for artists of color. The project aims at amplify the work of designers in the areas of fashion, furniture, industrial and graphic design, and the arts thanks to awards that will guarantee financial support as well as creative opportunities to foster relationships with leading global companies interested in collaborating with heterogeneous talents.
 
“I’m thrilled to collaborate with Prada Group to generate a new hub of design energy on the South Side by engaging a network of skilled designers, artists and intellectuals around our first cohort of awardees and their projects,” said Theaster Gates, founder of Dorchester Industries and Rebuild Foundation and Co-Chair of the Prada Diversity & Inclusion Advisory Council. “For too long, our creative communities have possessed the talent but lacked exposure and opportunity. Now more than ever, today’s leading creatives must elevate the work of emerging designers of color and connect them to great companies interested in diverse talent.”
 
The first cohort of awardees will be selected and announced in October 2021.