Dept Festival 2019 Reveals First Line-Up and More Extensive Programme

Approaching the fourth edition of its festival, Dept has announced the first speakers that will take the stage. The digital agency returns to the festival site of Thuishaven Amsterdam, where – in addition to the annual talks – interactive sessions will also play a major role. The festival takes place on September 6th and its programme, unlike previous years, lasts all day.

The first line-up consists of a varied range of speakers: Space Suit designer and Aeronautics professor Dava Newman explains what it takes to get the first person on Mars; Giulio Soro, head of technology at Alexa Skills, elaborates on the future of voice assistants; and Finn Lützow-Holm Myrstad shares insights about the personal information technology companies collect with your consent – after standing before the G20, the European Parliament and SXSW. Also taking the stage is award-winning virtual artist Joshua Davis, who has previously exhibited work in Tate Modern and the Center Pompidou, and Blake Cahill, who, as a senior VP of Philips, examines the future of (healthcare) brands.

This year’s festival will last from 10am until 10pm - a large timespan with plenty of time to focus both on inspiring talks and many interactive sessions. There will be short talks from Dept employees and guest speakers in addition to workshops, live performances and experimental activities. 

Dimi Albers, CEO of Dept, says: “For three years in a row we have succeeded in setting up a festival where our customers, relations and Depsters feel at home, are inspired and share knowledge. Our goal is to bring the Dept Festival to the next level this year with a full day program in which in-depth content, interactive sessions and creative experiences are central. We can't wait until it's September 6!”