In keeping with a tradition of fostering critical debate and encouraging participation, ExperimentaDesign Amsterdam 2008 presents a series of Open Talks during the Opening Week afternoons. In an informal setup, international experts and leading practitioners join the audience to discuss issues arising from the Biennale's core exhibitions. The Talk Host introduces the theme for the afternoon, followed by a series of short interventions by the guests. The Host then leads the debate between the guests, while invited ‘agents provocateurs’ and audience members are free to intervene. Each session of the Open Talk mirrors the theme of the exhibition opening that day, thus acting like a catalyst for further exploration by a growing audience.