Fiona Dieffenbacher from Parsons School of Design- The New School Elevates Global Design Education at ATLAS ISDI

A Transformative Week of Collaboration

Design education in India is rapidly evolving, driven by collaborations with prestigious international institutions. One such partnership is between ATLAS ISDI School of Design and Parsons School of Design- The New School. Recently, this collaboration reached new heights with the visit of Fiona Dieffenbacher, Associate Professor of Fashion at Parsons and Associate Dean of the School of Fashion. Her week-long engagement with students and faculty at ATLAS ISDI proved to be an enriching experience, fostering a deeper understanding of design principles and practices.

Series of interactive sessions, workshops and discussions

Fiona’s visit was marked by a series of interactive sessions, workshops and discussions aimed at enhancing the learning experience for both students and faculty. On the first day, she delved into reviewing new courses alongside senior faculty members, setting the tone for an intensive week ahead. Subsequent days were packed with activities ranging from workshops with students to insightful talks with faculty members.

Hands-on learning experience

Throughout her visit, Fiona emphasised the importance of bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, a philosophy deeply embedded in Parsons’ pedagogy. Workshops such as ‘From Concept to Design’ and ‘How to Take an Idea for a Walk’ provided students with the creative tools to ideate and develop unique approaches to the design process.

Local artisans and design hubs

Moreover, Fiona’s engagement extended beyond the classroom as she accompanied faculty members on visits to Colaba and Bandra, exploring local artisans and design hubs. These excursions not only enriched the cultural experience but also provided valuable insights into the intersection of tradition and modernity in design.

Interactions with ATLAS ISDI Students

A highlight of Fiona’s visit was her interactions with students at various stages of their academic journey. From freshmen exploring career paths in fashion to seniors showcasing exemplary work, her guidance and feedback were invaluable in shaping their understanding of the industry. Additionally, her discussions on ‘Research Practice in Fashion Design’ offered a glimpse into the rigorous methodology employed by leading designers.

Fiona’s visit left an indelible mark on ATLAS SkillTech University’s ethos of global collaboration in design education. The exchange of ideas and experiences between Parsons and ATLAS ISDI not only enriches the curriculum but also cultivates a mindset of innovation and excellence among students.

ATLAS ISDI’s collaboration with Parsons School of Design- The New School underscores its commitment to providing world-class education with a global outlook. By fostering partnerships with top universities and institutions worldwide, ATLAS ISDI is at the forefront of shaping the future of design education in India, empowering students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.