Openlab speech

Addictlab.com presents Open Lab 2.0 at the Design Quarter, Johannesburg, South Africa.

(text printed on a poster at the event)

'Having an opening speech printed is maybe a bit weird and a contradiction in terms. However, think about it: it is an interesting technique to get a message across.
A ‘normal’ speech is quite ‘one way’.  I talk,  you listen. That is,  if you came on time for the event.  And that is, if you’d be interested in what I have to say and not be drawn towards places offering liquids with an impressive alcohol level.
Having it printed, allows for a number of things. If you’re not interested, then don’t bother reading. If you do are interested, the message will get even better across, since you’ve dedicated valuable mind space to go through my words and grasp whatever multilayered messages a Belgian guy could have for a South African crowd.'

'I’ve made it my business to attract creative talent from all over the world, setting up addictlab.com as a global creative laboratory, out of complete and utter respect of human creativity. Without any border, blurring creative disciplines, and creating platforms where people can get in contact and create even better things. Because I believe creativity is a proof of human intellect. And innovation can change the world. (You see, now you can reread that.)'

'Today, Addictlab.com has visitors from over 150 countries and 3000 registered creatives. We have published over 25 books showing an average of 200 creative people per issue. We’re continuously experimenting how we can create a bridge between that talent and the industry that needs innovation. I’m proud of our offerings: any business that needs creative resources an out of the box thinking can use one of our innovation packages.'

South African & international talent in the Open Lab.

'I have been feeling a privileged spectator of South African’s creative scene, in art, design, fashion, for the last year. Ok, my passive ‘watching’ shifted towards a bit more involvement when my family was victim of a home robbery, complete with tied wrists and having - amongst others - my computer stolen while I was working on a book, subtitled ‘Ideas to create a better world’. Your robbers have an interesting sense of humor.' 

'More involvement when being victim of internet fraud that made our SA bank balance running empty at a speed that would outrun Brian Habana (you see, I try to understand your culture).
Add to that a first South African client who tapped into Addictlab and disappeared without paying his bill, and regular power cuts that make my business and global concept completely unworkable.  Yes, I could easily be one of those who would label South-Africa as dangerous and to be neglected.'

'But, even in South Africa, it’s never that black and white. Addictlab.com is a bottom-up concept, starting with genuine talent that needs and/or deserves accelerating. And South Africa has lots of talent , this small Open Lab with local and international talent is proof of that.  Selecting those creative minds and exhibiting them in a place like the Design Quarter, is but one small tool to work towards that goal.'

'I’m happy to realize I’m not alone with this vision and this is the perfect moment to thank all people involved. The Labmembers, to create their work and trust us. The Design Quarter, to believe in showing products in the beginning of their lifecycle and trying to inspire an impressive crowd.  Mtkidu for their awesome sound & videoscapes,  Elle Decoration, Tracy from Setbuild, Luc Zeghers, Sean from RPD, all for their mental and creative support. Special thanks, of course,  to Labambassador Marike Hechter, for believing in the Addictlab system as a way … to create a better world. Some of the concepts shown here are a proof of that.'

'Now. You’ve read my speech. Don’t start applauding in front of this poster, because that might look a bit awkward. Run around, admire. Interact. And contribute. '


Jan@addictlab.com




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