In the last three decades, the design field has undergone significant transformations, marked by diversification, complexity, and integration with various sectors, including technology. Initially focused on form and function, design has since expanded to drive social, ecological, cultural, and digital innovations. Two major revolutions—digital and service—have reshaped the discipline. Today, faced with environmental challenges and advancing AI, designers are at a critical juncture, necessitating the reevaluation of practices and theories. This includes adopting multidisciplinary, innovative, and ethically responsible approaches.

The 2025 Spring Cumulus Conference in Nantes will explore new design ethics through six tracks: Care, City, Food, Digital, Media, and Design & Entrepreneurship. This event will gather 500 participants from more than 70 countries worldwide to celebrate the 35th anniversary of Cumulus.

Since 1999, L’École de design Nantes Atlantique has been an active contributor to Cumulus Association, the largest network in art, design, and media education. Welcoming Cumulus members in 2025 to our brand-new premises is a unique opportunity to give back what we have learned from peer discussions, inspiring events, and friendly encounters on five continents.

As design education reaches a turning point, maintaining fruitful conversations between educators, practitioners, and researchers in the fields of art, design, and media is more important than ever.