We’re proud to be sponsoring Plymouth Design Forum for a second year in 2025. PDF is an inspirational event series that both celebrates the design talent in Plymouth and brings the opportunity to hear talks from nationally recognised design legends in our city. Founded by two of Plymouth’s very own local legends, James Edgar and Darren Foley, we caught up to find out their inspiration for starting the event, highlights from the last 7 years and what’s coming up in the future. 

How would you describe Plymouth Design Forum events, for someone who has never been to one before and who are they for?

Plymouth Design Forum events are informal, inspiring gatherings that bring together creative professionals, students and design enthusiasts. They’re for anyone passionate about design and its potential to spark change - whether you're a seasoned practitioner, studying the discipline, or just curious about creativity. Expect a mix of thought-provoking and inspiring talks, as well as relaxed, vibrant, ‘no lanyard’ networking in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

What was the inspiration for starting PDF?

The idea for PDF began with a simple goal: to connect Plymouth’s creative minds and build a stronger, more collaborative design community. We saw an opportunity to elevate the city’s creative profile by fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and celebrating the incredible talent that’s right here in Plymouth.

What would be your top highlight from the last 7 years?

James: One of my personal highlights was hosting the sell-out Neville Brody event in November 2024. As someone who has admired Neville’s work since my early days as a designer, it was surreal to welcome him to Plymouth and share his insights with our community. The energy in the room that night was electric and epitomised everything PDF strives to achieve - bringing world-class inspiration to Plymouth and celebrating the power of Design.

Darren: For me, the biggest achievement has been realising a key goal from our original manifesto: retaining the best talent Plymouth has to offer. In 2024, we launched the PDF Student of the Year award, recognising outstanding graduates from Arts University Plymouth and the University of Plymouth. This initiative celebrates emerging talent and underscores our commitment to nurturing and keeping brilliant creatives in the city. Seeing the next generation of designers gain recognition and opportunities is truly rewarding.

You've achieved so many amazing things with PDF, what would be something you'd love to do with it in the future?

We’d love to expand PDF’s reach even further by creating an annual design festival that attracts regional and national attention. It would showcase Plymouth’s design talent, offer exciting opportunities for creatives, and inspire businesses to harness the power of design in new ways.

How do you hope PDF can continue to develop and grow Plymouth’s creative community?

By continuing to hold impactful events and fostering partnerships with organisations like Eat Work Art, we aim to connect even more people across the creative spectrum. We hope to inspire collaboration, elevate the quality of design services in the city, and position Plymouth as a leading creative destination in the South West and beyond.

The next PDF will be on Thursday 30th January with award with designer and founder, Jack Renwick. Tickets are selling fast, available on the Plymouth Design Forum website.