Talk or Panel Experiential Design Panel: Designing Moments That Move People
Talk or Panel Experiential Design Panel: Designing Moments That Move People
Live moderated panel + audience Q&A
Moderated by Catherine Eng
Hosted by DFA Multimedia Day, San Diego Design Week 2026
What it is
This panel explores the world of experiential design and the creative thinking behind spaces, installations, activations, immersive environments, and other experiences that invite audiences to participate rather than simply observe.
Bringing together creatives working across design, storytelling, technology, and physical space, the conversation will look at how an idea becomes an experience, how designers build for emotion and connection, and how the boundaries between digital and physical environments continue to evolve.
This panel explores the practical side of experiential work, from collaboration and technology to designing with intention and creating moments that leave a lasting impression.
The Speakers
- Catherine Eng — Moderator
Co-Founder and CTO of OurWorlds, Inc. and an AIGA board member, Catherine works at the intersection of technology, storytelling, culture, and immersive experience design. - Jonathon Glus
President and CEO of the Prebys Foundation and a longtime leader in arts and culture, Jonathon brings deep experience supporting artists, institutions, and creative communities. - Ben Guerrette
Founder and Lead Creative at Ten Six Pines, Ben creates immersive and interactive experiences that blend technology, sound, visuals, and experiential storytelling. - José Manuel Cruz
Head of Product Design and Branding at Cardiff.co and an AIGA board member, José brings a multidisciplinary perspective spanning product, brand, and experience design.
Who it’s for
This panel is curated for designers, artists, creative technologists, marketers, storytellers, producers, and anyone interested in how experiences can shape the way people connect with ideas, brands, places, and one another.
Event details
🗓️ Sunday, September 20, 2026
🕕 5:00-6:00 PM
📍 Wells Fargo Plaza, 401 B Street
Downtown San Diego
(B Street & Fifth Ave)
REGISTER FOR FREE
About the Host
Catherine Eng
Catherine Eng is a designer and technology strategist specializing in XR, AI, data visualization, scientific communication, and interactive media. She is Co-Founder and CTO of OurWorlds and Programs & Events Director for AIGA San Diego–Tijuana. Her award-winning work explores how emerging technologies can transform storytelling, education, and the way we experience information.
OurWorlds: Revolutionizing Learning Through Immersive Technology
