Every day, I am reminded of the boundless power of creativity and the resilience of humankind, especially as I reflect upon 2024 and look ahead to the new year. Despite the challenges the world continues to face, through the strength of ideas, we can find hope, progress and unity. Creative thinking is a formidable tool. It gives us freedom to reimagine the future, and a world where equality prevails.

Inside this issue, we are fortunate to meet with creatives who are demonstrating innovation. Daniela Droz’s latest exhibition with Fotostiftung Schweiz reminds us of the transformative power of storytelling. She uses vibrant artistry to weave narratives that celebrate identity and culture. Meanwhile, we speak with Thomas Heatherwick about his latest monograph, which surveys his 30-year career. Groundbreaking designs prove that even the most complex thoughts can become a reality when imagination takes the lead. Lastly, the renowned photographer Cody Cobb talks about how his evocative landscapes blur the boundaries between realism and abstraction. His work often focuses on the raw beauty of nature, capturing fleeting moments where light, texture and form converge to create surreal, meditative moments.

In photography we present the work of six artists who demonstrate that ideas are the conduit of transformation. Anne Nobels’ introspective, dreamlike imagery explores themes of memory and emotion. Popel Coumou masterfully blurs the line between photography and collage, building works that are rich with texture and depth. Guillaume Lavrut invites us into a poetic visual narrative. Nick Prideaux records fleeting moments, evoking a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. Luc Holper fills the frame with dynamic colours and forms, transforming everyday scenes into something imaginary. Tekla Evelina Severin redefines architectural photography with the use of abstraction, colour and geometry. Finally, the Last Words go to Dawoud Bey for Street Portraits, which is on at Denver Art Museum until 11 May 2025.

Cherie Federico