2.5.14 | New York, NY | Jerry Helling, President of Bernhardt Design and newly elected President of Be Original Americas, will speak about the importance of original design in our daily lives and why economically, ethically and environmentally, it needs to be protected and invested in for the future of design. Sponsored by IIDA, Helling will explore a world without original design – a world without excitement, originality and inspiration.

Long a supporter of design talent, Helling is responsible for the cultivation and support of young designers through his sponsorship and development of the annual ICFF Studio, a platform for select emerging designers to exhibit their talent and vision to potential manufacturers.

WHO:    Jerry Helling, President, Bernhardt Design

WHAT:   Why Original Design is Important?

WHEN:   February 25, 2014; 6:00 – 7:00 PM

WHERE: The Contemporary Austin Jones Center
              700 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX

About The Contemporary Austin Jones Center
The Contemporary Austin reflects the spectrum of contemporary art through exhibitions, commissions, education, and the collection.

About Be Original™
Be Original Americas, founded in 2012, is committed to educating, informing and influencing designers, businesses, and the greater public on the value of purchasing authentic designs. The goal is to elevate the discussion so that all who appreciate good design also understand the economic, social, and ethical reasons to support the creators and manufacturers of original, authorized design, thereby ensuring its future.

For more information, visit www.beoriginalamericas.com and www.bernhardtdesign.com