Majal - Design Incubator Program
Design as a discipline. Craft as a method. Making as knowledge.
- Program duration: 8 weeks
- Days and dates: Saturdays, 11 April - 13 June 2026
- Time: 10 AM to 2 PM
- Price: 190 BD (Instalment options are available), payable after participants confirmation.
- Program Exhibition: 15 September - 29 October 2026
- Language: English
- Venue: House 2
To submit your application, please fill the form here.
About Majal:
Majal is a platform dedicated to supporting material-based research, contemporary design practices, and collaborative craft methodologies. It fosters exchange between designers, makers, and craftspeople, creating an environment that values experimentation, dialogue, and critical engagement with making.
About the Programme:
Cycle Theme: Design as a discipline. Craft as a method. Making as knowledge.
MAJAL ’26 is an intensive, process-driven design programme inviting designers and makers to explore contemporary design thinking through the lens of local craft practices. Rooted in material intelligence, critical inquiry, and hands-on experimentation, the programme approaches design as a living practice—one that evolves through research, dialogue, and making.
This eight-week experience offers participants the time, space, and mentorship to develop new work through material exploration, iterative experimentation, and close collaboration with craftspeople. MAJAL ‘26 is interested in design not only as a final outcome, but as a rigorous and reflective process. Craft is approached as a site for innovation, cultural investigation, and future-facing practice.
The programme is structured around material-led research, contemporary design methodologies, and collaborative making. Participants will work within shared studios and material labs, engage in masterclasses led by craftspeople and practitioners, and develop a focused body of work from concept through to production.
Throughout the programme, participants will:
- Experiment with materials, processes, and techniques
- Translate research into design concepts and prototypes
- Collaborate closely with craftspeople and fellow makers
- Develop an object, small collection, or focused series
- Prepare work for public presentation and potential market pathways
Regular group discussions, critiques, and informal exchanges will form an integral part of the programme. Participants are expected to be open to dialogue, constructive feedback, and collaborative engagement. A strong commitment to experimentation, reflection, and consistent studio practice is essential.
The programme concludes with a public exhibition and open studio days, creating space for visibility, dialogue, and collective reflection on the work developed.
MAJAL ‘26 presents an intensive and demanding structure, requiring dedication and active participation throughout the eight weeks. By applying, participants acknowledge the commitment required and undertake the responsibility to fully engage with the programme.
Participants will have access to shared studio spaces, tools, and material labs for research, experimentation, development, and production. Basic studio resources will be provided.
Application Process:
- Incubator Program announced on 21 February 2026.
- Interested designers must fill the application form and submit it by 25 March 2026.
- Shortlisted applicants may be called for a meeting or inquiries between 31 March - 2 April 2026
- Successful applicants will be informed on 2 April 2026.
- Acceptance confirmation must be received from the applicant by 4 April 2026.
- Incubator Program begins on 11 April 2026.
Interested applicants are required to submit the completed application materials before the stated deadline. Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further discussion or clarification. Successful participants will be notified following review by the programme team. Public announcement of participants will follow.
Who Should Apply:
MAJAL ‘26 is open to:
- Designers, artists, and makers working with or interested in contemporary design and craft-based practices
- Practitioners exploring material-led and process-driven approaches
- Emerging to mid-career creatives seeking to deepen their engagement with making
- Applicants from diverse disciplines including product, textile, furniture, object, and experimental design
- Applicants do not need to be master craftspeople. Curiosity, commitment to making, openness to collaboration, and willingness to experiment are essential.
Applicants must be 18 years or older.
What the Programme Offers:
- Access to shared studios, tools, and material labs
- Structured mentorship and regular critiques
- Masterclasses with craftspeople and industry practitioners
- Dedicated time and space to develop new work
- Documentation and public presentation opportunities
- A collaborative, peer-led learning environment
- Access to online resources and industry expertise
Designers and makers seeking to deepen their engagement with materials, expand their critical design thinking, and explore craft as a site of innovation are encouraged to apply.