The Powerhouse has appointed writer and editor Stephen Todd as the creative director of Sydney Design Week 2020. Todd will draw on his specialised expertise in design to create a dynamic seven-day program directly responding to the design industry.

Taking place from 16 to 22 September 2020, Sydney Design Week will refine the previously titled Sydney Design Festival into a dedicated program focusing on the local Australian Design industry while also reflecting on internationally applicable design themes within the context of Australia’s place in the Asia Pacific.

Todd is a writer, editor and creative director with 25 years of international experience across design, architecture, fashion and art. He launched French fashion and culture titles, Numéro and Jalouse magazine, and has written for publications including The New York Times, The Guardian, Le Monde, Blueprint, Wallpaper, American Vogue. In 2005 he launched the branding and communications agency concept+image in Paris where he orchestrated bespoke programs including exhibitions, catalogues, events and advertising for major clients including Moet and Swarovski. For Swarovski, he curated the 9 X 10 Swarovski At Work design show at the Milan Furniture Fair and the 22 Ways To Say Black fashion exhibition at Phillips Auction House in New York. He is currently the design editor at The Australian Financial Review.

“It is an honour to be named Creative Director of Sydney Design Week 2020 and I’m looking forward to working with the team at the Powerhouse to deliver an engaging seven-day program of exhibitions, workshops, discussions and events,” says Todd.

“Stephen Todd has a unique and extensive insight into contemporary design and media. We look forward to his leadership in creating a brilliant event in 2020,” adds Powerhouse Museum, chief executive Lisa Havilah.

Details for the program will be announced later in the year.