Photo Courtesy: Utopia. Team
Utopia. Presents the (AI)ndustrial Revolution Panel Talk at the 2025 40×40 International Exhibition
Date & Time: September 5, 2025 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: The Blanc Gallery, 15 E 40th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10016
Theme: (AI)ndustrial Revolution – Exploring AI, Creativity, and Cross-Disciplinary Innovation
New York, NY — September 5, 2025 — Utopia. in collaboration with the A’ Design Award, hosted the (AI)ndustrial Revolution Panel Talk during the 40×40 International Exhibition in New York City, highlighting how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping creative industries, design culture, and entrepreneurial practice.
Curated by Lihsing Wang and hosted by Brando Vassallo and Qi Shen, Senior Product Manager at TikTok Shop E-commerce, the panel convened thought leaders from architecture, luxury, e-commerce, productivity, and finance to share insights on the intersection of technology, creativity, and industry. The event aimed to explore how AI democratizes access to design, empowers underrepresented voices, and fosters new business and cultural ecosystems.
Panel Highlights:
- Expertise Sharing: Each panelist introduced their work and discussed how AI and digital tools are transforming their disciplines—from architecture and sustainability to brand strategy, productivity, and e-commerce.
- Interactive Discussion: Moderated by Qi Shen, the session facilitated a cross-disciplinary conversation on challenges, opportunities, and the human and social impact of AI-driven innovation.
- Audience Q&A: Attendees engaged directly with panelists to discuss ethical, creative, and technical questions, emphasizing collaboration across industries.
- Networking: The panel concluded with networking drinks, providing space for attendees to connect with panelists, designers, and innovators.
Photo Courtesy: Utopia. Team
Panelists and Featured Experts:
- Brando Vassallo | Founder of Smile Stringz (Fashion & Creative Leadership)
- Martin Schott | International Head of Creative, Phillips (Creative Direction & Branding)
- Viljon Caka | Founder, Pensofino (Finance & Art Patronage)
- Qi Shen | Senior Product Manager, TikTok Shop E-commerce (Technology & E-Commerce)
- Oliver Schütte | Founder, A-01 (Architecture & Sustainability)
- Josiah Forgath | Founder of Methods (Global Notion Ambassador) (Productivity & Digital Strategy)
- Claudia Pecchio | Project Director, A-01 (Sustainable Product Innovation)
Curatorial Statement:
(AI)ndustrial Revolution investigates how AI, 3D modeling, generative software, and digital platforms are changing not only the practice of design but also who participates in it. The panel emphasized new economies created by small studios, independent brands, and underrepresented voices, highlighting how technology enables cultural and entrepreneurial innovation across fashion, product design, digital art, and social impact projects.
Key Themes Explored:
- Personal Experience & Entry Points: Panelists shared individual journeys illustrating how AI shapes their work and creativity.
- Challenges & Opportunities: Discussions on barriers, breakthroughs, and emerging strategies across disciplines.
- Human & Social Impact: Analysis of how technology affects communities, accessibility, and sustainability.
- Collaboration & Future: Reflections on cross-disciplinary innovation and the skills needed for the next generation of creators.
The panel was a resounding success, sparking meaningful dialogue on the intersection of AI, creativity, and design. It offered a perfect closing to the 40×40 International Exhibition, leaving attendees inspired, connected, and energized about the future of innovation across disciplines.
About Utopia.
Utopia Collaboration Inc. is a global art and design platform based in New York City, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue through exhibitions, panels, and immersive experiences. The organization connects innovators worldwide and inspires audiences to explore new paradigms in creativity, technology, and cultural impact.
About A’ Design Award:
The A’ Design Award & Competition is one of the most prestigious design accolades globally, dedicated to celebrating excellence across various design disciplines.
About The Blanc:
The Blanc Gallery is a creative hub committed to supporting diverse artistic practices and emerging talent. Through exhibitions, performances, and interdisciplinary programs, we empower artists to grow, experiment, and engage with New York’s dynamic cultural scene
Media Details.
Company Name: Utopia Collaboration Inc.
Contact Name: Utopia.
Country: USA
Website: https://www.utopiaevent.org
