Why paper still matters in the age of digital and AI

In this episode, Lee-Sean Huang and Giulia Donatello host Andy Curson and Rob Slowe from Arctic Paper as they dive into sustainable papermaking, the role of print in a digital age, and collaborations with emerging designers. Discover how Arctic Paper balances environmental responsibility with innovation, and how print continues to evolve as a meaningful medium for creativity and storytelling.Arctic Paper’s portfolio: mills in Sweden and Poland, offering coated, uncoated, book, and high-end papersThe relationship between Arctic Paper and the Munken Design Brand, and insights into their global activitiesCollaborations with European design schools for over 20 years, fostering youth creativityThe evolution of agenda design: flexibility, interactivity, and the shift from static to fluid layoutsThe value of physical books and print in an era dominated by screens, emphasizing quality and sensory experienceArctic Paper’s sustainability initiatives: FSC, Cradle to Cradle, CO2 reduction, water conservation, and environmental stewardshipChallenges in translating digital files to print, ICC profiles, and ensuring color fidelityDigital tools like Munken Sans font and Munken Creator for hybrid design approachesThe future of print: high-end books as niche luxury items, akin to vinyl recordsThe impact of AI on design and print, emphasizing the importance of tactile, slow media for deep engagementResources & Links:Arctic Paper Official Website: https://www.arcticpaper.comMunken Paper: https://www.arcticpaper.com/brands/munken/Munken Sans Typeface: https://colab.munken.com/munken-sansMunken Creator Web Tool: https://colab.munken.com/munkencreatorFSC Certification: https://fsc.orgTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Eyes on Design theme and guests from Arctic Paper02:29 - Arctic Paper’s global presence and product offerings04:09 - Clarification of Arctic Paper and Munkin Brand relationship05:34 - The backgrounds and careers of Andy and Rob in the paper industry11:34 - Long-standing collaboration with European art and design schools14:32 - Big shifts in youth design practices: flexibility and interactivity16:33 - How COVID influenced innovative student projects and engagement with paper19:04 - Challenges of translating digital files to print on uncoated paper21:03 - The role of paper quality in creating memorable experiences24:47 - Arctic Paper’s commitments to sustainability and environmental impact27:31 - Innovations in reducing water and energy consumption in papermaking30:14 - The physical environment as part of sustainability and community well-being31:24 - How Arctic Paper bridges expectations between digital and print media34:41 - Digital tools and experiments like Munken Sans font and Munken Creator platform39:24 - The future of luxury books and print as a niche market akin to vinyl records41:59 - The timeless value of physical books and passing on treasured works42:35 - AI's role in design, print, and storytelling: preserving tactile skills amid digital growth45:09 - Looking ahead: embracing both digital and physical mediums, fostering new creatives