Alberini Family Speaker Series Lecture

This talk explores the intersection of cultural heritage, cutting-edge technology and sustainable design through the lens of Dylan Mulder’s award-winning work. Drawing from his Ngāti Maniapoto roots and global experiences, Mulder shares how he integrates Indigenous wisdom with modern innovations like generative AI and reactive diffusion.

An award-winning industrial designer, Mulder’s work encompasses product design, feature films and wearable technology. He draws on his Dutch and Māori heritage and connects people from all walks of life, regardless of cultural background, Indigenous roots, or socioeconomic status. He has worked with Weta Workshop, Cirque Du Soleil, Netflix, Air New Zealand and Soul Machines Ltd., and has created iconic costume pieces for clients such as Nicki Minaj, Katy Perry and former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern.

The speaker series, supported through an endowment by the Carlos and Andrea Alberini Family Foundation, brings renowned innovators and thinkers in design to campus and in virtual formats to inspire students and encourage community engagement and learning.

Organized by the UC Davis Department of Design. Co-sponsored by the Manetti Shrem Museum.

The Department of Design is part of the UC Davis College of Letters and Science.