Visitor Talk: Billy Almon

Abstract:

In this discussion, Billy will expose A&D students to the concept of biomimicry and facilitate their exploration of what restorative futures look like in a world where humanled design has resulted in inequitable spaces and systems. Now more than ever, the world needs solutions that are not only sustainable, but are empathetic to the needs and circumstances of the people. Billy will share the process for creating “restorative futures” and detail an ideation process for design that is dynamic and empathetic. After the discussion, A&D students will see how biology-inspired solutions (also known as “biomimicry”) can be used as a

tool for creating spaces and systems that are inherently efficient and equitable for all human beings.

Bio:

Billy is an Astrobiofuturist who explores biology-inspired solutions to improve the human condition for those of us on earth and those who will travel to the stars. He now focuses on speaking to multiple generations of inventors, designers, scientists, and engineers on designing the future they wish to see. Previously, Billy was a creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering, leading efforts to develop immersive experiences and environments around the world. He holds a Master’s degree in Biomimicry from Arizona State University and Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from Howard University. Billy sits on the Board of Directors for

the Biomimicry Institute, the world’s leading authority on nature’s solutions to design challenges. He also teaches biomimetic design at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design.