The Invisible Craft with Emily Webster Bagdatli, ESI Design
The Invisible Craft, What Does It Mean to Design an Experience?
When we talk about Experience Design, we're not just referring to the visible, tangible elements of a product or service. We're delving into something far deeper – a craft so nuanced that, when done exceptionally well, it often goes unnoticed. This is "the invisible craft" of XD...and it's also why it is so difficult to define.
This talk will not give you one perfect, rigid definition of what an experience is. Instead, it will discuss ways to think about XD, considering ways to communicate the value of our industry.
Experience the Times of Bill Cunningham: Showcase of local street photographers alongside Bill Cunningham’s most famous images
Delta Airlines’ Terminal C at LaGuardia: Largest digital artwork in the airport that pulls live flight data
About our Speaker
Emily Webster Bagdatli is the Executive Creative Director at ESI Design, a pioneering experience design studio known for crafting immersive, story-driven environments. With deep expertise in creating intuitive and engaging experiences, she leverages architecture, social capital, and multimedia technology to expand brand perception, drive audience engagement, and activate underutilized spaces.
Emily has led the creative direction for some of the world’s most iconic public destinations, including the White House Tour, the Statue of Liberty Museum, and the arts and graphics program at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal C. Her design philosophy is shaped by a dual background in architecture and dance, giving her a unique ability to choreograph how people move through and interact with space—transforming static environments into vibrant, multisensory experiences.
She holds a degree in Architecture from the University of Colorado and a Master’s from NYU’s Interactive Telecommunications Program. Earlier in her career, she worked with acclaimed creative forces such as WET Design, photographer David LaChapelle, the Independent Film Channel, and artist Jim Campbell, exploring the intersection of art, technology, and the built environment.
A frequent speaker on design innovation, Emily has shared her insights on brand transformation, dynamic storytelling, and immersive media environments at major forums including SXSW and the Fast Company Innovation Festival.
About Futurespaces
Futurespaces delves into contemporary experience design, with a specific focus on how innovations in design and technology can meaningfully enhance human connection.
Founded and led by Josh Goldblum (Bluecadet) Futurespaces offers live webinars and in-person tours that provide valuable insights into the creative process of creating contemporary experiences.