Nominees Announced April 2nd
Honoring the Best
of the Internet
September 22, 2020

Ask a Webby Judge: Paola Antonelli, Senior Curator, Architecture & Design Director, R&D, The Museum of Modern Art

5 questions with Paola Antonelli, MOMA's Senior Curator of Architecture & Design and Director of Research & Development. She's also a new member of the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences (IADAS) for The Webby Awards.

1. Why are you excited to serve as a Webby Awards judge?

I’m grateful for this opportunity not only because the Webby Awards are the highest honor in the Internet universe, but also because I’m ready to get to know many projects that I might otherwise not encounter. 

2. What particular expertise do you bring to the Academy?

My familiarity with interface and interaction design will come in handy when selecting the winners. I have previously explored the subject of interactive design and communication between people and objects in my 2011 Talk To Me exhibition, which has made me a qualified candidate for Webby’s judging panel.

3. What trend or emerging technology are you most excited about in your field of work?

I’m interested in design activism, in how designers use their skills to help and empower citizens, and to address challenges such as the ongoing pandemic, the environmental crisis, and social inequality.

4. Why do you think being a part of The Webby Awards community matters?

It is an opportunity to build long-lasting connections, become familiar with the work of young designers in the field, have a positive impact , and be able to spread the message of design’s transformative power among like-minded people. 

5. Since so much has changed this year, what is one trend you’d like to see stick around in your industry?

I would like to keep seeing thoughtful, intense, and effective responses not just during the pandemic, but many years from now. I’d like to keep a sense of urgency.

6. What projects or endeavors are you currently working on, and how will it benefit online communities?

Together with Alice Rawsthorn, I have launched a series of IG Live conversations called @Design.Emergency to study the role of design in the COVID-19 pandemic as well as its crucial agency in all crisis situations.

 

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*Bonus Question* What’s your favorite app that other people haven’t heard of?

Have you seen Earth Speakr?

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