The fifth annual edition of the Psychedelics Design Online Conference returns on 6-7 November 2026 under the central theme “Creative Biome”. Founded and curated by designer Alexandra Plesner, the platform examines the growing intersection between psychedelic science, creative practice, and human-centred design.
Rather than viewing design and psychedelics as separate disciplines, “Creative Biome” frames them as an interconnected ecosystem linking human experience, technology, and natural intelligence. The conference is co-produced with Floris Wolswijk (founder of Blossom), co-curated with Zoe Wilder (founder of Liquid Culture / Zoe Wilder PR), and hosted by Dennis Walker (founder of Mycopreneur).
Ahead of his forthcoming book, How Psychedelics Work (publishing January 2027), Dr. Carhart-Harris will deliver a keynote session exploring how psychedelic substances alter brain network hierarchy, loosen cognitive constraints, and foster neuroplasticity. His presentation will be followed by a fireside conversation with David Coveney, Publisher and Executive Editor of Design Week, bridging neuroscientific insights with empathetic, real-world design applications.
Key Speakers & Session Highlights
The two-day virtual programme features a global line-up of designers, neuroscientists, activists, and practitioners:
Rick Doblin, PhD & Zoe Wilder:
A dialogue titled “The Long Arc of Transformation,” exploring the long-term cultural movement of psychedelic research and what bringing visionary futures into reality requires of creators.
Clare Farrell & Marissa Feinberg:
Extinction Rebellion co-founder Clare Farrell joins PSYCA (Psychedelics for Climate Action) founder Marissa Feinberg to discuss how expanded consciousness can translate into systemic environmental action and climate activism.
Josh Rubin:
The founder and Creative Director of COOL HUNTING examines how edge concepts move from cultural fringes into tangible objects, spaces, and brands.
Dr. Manesh Girn:
Postdoctoral neuroscientist at UCSF delivering new research on how psychedelics affect creative problem-solving and unconstrained cognition.
Jess Jorgensen:
Founder of Sporesight presenting “If Fungi Was Your Futurist,” applying mycelial growth patterns and biological intelligence to strategic design thinking.
Dr. Jahan Khamsehzadeh:
Author and scholar tracing the arc of psychedelic history from ancient ritual to modern design and counterculture.
Jaime Derringer & Mareesa Stertz:
Design Milk founder Jaime Derringer in conversation with Mareesa Stertz on translating inner psychological journeys into physical spatial design.
Joshua White:
Founder of Fireside Project discussing voice-to-voice simulation models for peer support and therapeutic care.
Awards date
Evaluated by a 32-member international jury, 24 finalists will be announced on 13 October 2026. Category winners will be announced live during the event on Saturday, 7 November 2026, hosted by Dennis Walker.
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