Top 100 Art & Design Trends in July

Futuristic architecture, modular furniture, and activist-driven artwork were a few of the stand-out elements shaping the July 2022 art and design trends, which otherwise consisted of an eclectic mix of innovations, products, and concepts derived from a diverse range of industries.

Thankfully, there was no shortage this month of far-out design concepts, many of which appear to be turning the works of science fiction into new tangible realities. For example, Bernhard Büttner of HTW Berlin showcased his concept for an aquafarming robot called 'Cerberus Algae,' which is able to glide above water autonomously extracting out algae and other unwanted materials. Meanwhile, designer Heqi Wang debuted his concept for the 'Railway Motorcycle,' a shapeshifting motorcycle for railway workers that can be tethered down to train tracks for quick transportation.

Bringing things back down to earth, there were a number of art exhibits this month centered around the relationship between humans and our planet. A definite standout came from Toronto-based artist Clare Allin, who showcased her series 'Scum City' at Signatures Beaches Arts and Crafts Show in Kew Gardens. Allin's work addressed the intersection of nature and city life, highlighting the ecological tensions associated with Toronto's urban wildlife.