There is a big, big problem in this world and it’s not a lack of money, or a lack of technology. It’s a lack of imagination.
– Daan Roosegaarde

Dutch designer Daan Roosegaarde has argued that finding a harmony between economic progress and humanity is crucial for society and that we must embrace creativity to do so.

Speaking to CLAD for an interview, Roosegaarde said: "I want to demonstrate that creativity is our true human capital, because we need to find a new harmony between economic progress and humanity.

"The way we’re doing things now is not sustainable. Instead of embracing the future, we’re too busy being scared of it. We’re scared of robots, we’re scared of China. The question I ask myself is, ‘How do we change that?’”

Roosegarde is known for creating innovative and thought-provoking works like an electricity-generating dance floor, a smog-consuming bicycle and a huge outdoor air purifier, but he recognises that engaging people in a problem that may look insurmountable is a more ambitious challenge.

His current 'Presence' exhibition, which he discussed with CLAD and is currently on display at the Groninger Museum, shows in part how this might be possible by using curiosity to create a collective experience.

Fundamentally, Roosegaarde believes this sort of approach can be used to solve the most major of challenges.

"There is a big, big problem in this world and it’s not a lack of money, or a lack of technology. It’s a lack of imagination."

FEATURE: Profile – Daan Roosegaarde