Eric Demay

I’m leaving Wednesday for what is one of Canada’s oldest and smallest communities and [almost] the most eastern spot on the map: Fogo Island. I’ll be there for the next 3 weeks. Humid, snowy, windy: a total opposite of Dubai.

— Why?

Well, a private foundation, aided by the federal and provincial government, is turning the island’s economy around. Fishing has long long since declined and a renewal of economic activities is needed to keep the outport communities alive. They’re counting mostly on geotourism to nurture the island for years to come. Is has enough history (settlements since the 15th century) local culture (fishing) and geographical specifics (island, ocean) to build a story around it.

— Um, Eric, again: why are you going there?
— Relax, I’m getting to it:

So, during February, the Fogo Island Arts Corporation has invited a dozen young designers/ artists/architects from Canada, the UK and some nordic countries (Iceland, Scandinavia) to discuss the island’s heritage and outport culture and, ahem: « develop ideas for contemporary furniture and interiors inspired by traditional Outport living conditions and reality. » I’m not quite sure about the specifics, but from what I understand, this all ties in with architectural projects the foundation is building (a 5 star inn for example) and objects/furniture/textiles the local artisans, craftsmen, woodworkers, boat builders are going to be producing.

Anyways, it’s a fantastic opportunity. I’ll be meeting a handful of people, they even invited a few well-known speakers (other professional designers and thinkers) from around the globe. It should be good.

I’ll do my best to keep you guys posted, hopefully (photo)blogging a bit at the same time.