#United States #Santa Monica #Unlikely Collaborators #Spark Salon #Nick Foster

Unlikely Collaborators Hosts Nick Foster for a Thought-Provoking Spark Salon

On February 11, 2026, at 7:00 PM PT, Unlikely Collaborators will host an engaging session called the Spark Salon featuring esteemed futures designer Nick Foster. The evening promises to be a fascinating exploration of how the stories and assumptions we hold shape our vision of the future. Rather than simply forecasting what’s to come, Foster invites attendees to reflect on the collective narratives that influence how we perceive the possibilities that lie ahead.

Understanding Our Perception of the Future

In an era marked by rapid change and uncertainty, rethinking our relationship with the future is more crucial than ever. Foster argues that the lens through which we interpret potential outcomes is often clouded by unexamined beliefs and cultural narratives. This realization aligns perfectly with the Perception Box™ framework developed by Unlikely Collaborators, which examines how our internal narratives shape our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Foster’s insights derive from his newly released book, Could Should Might Don't: How We Think About the Future, where he challenges the audience to recognize how ingrained cultural stories and mental shortcuts govern our imaginations. With a blend of humor and clarity, he aims to reformulate the concept of future not as a predictable target but as an evolving landscape molded by human values and choices.

Event Details

The event will take place at the Unlikely Collaborators headquarters in Santa Monica, California, but will also be available to stream online, allowing a wider audience to participate. Attendees joining in person will receive a complimentary copy of Foster's book. Here’s what the evening looks like:

• - 6:00 PM – Doors open and reception begins
• - 7:00 PM – Program starts promptly
• - 8:00 PM – Book signing and additional reception

The event is free, but registration is required, indicating the high demand for such thought-provoking discourse.

Meet Nick Foster

Based in Oakland, California, Foster has established himself as a leader in the field of future design, collaborating with top-tier technology companies including Google, Nokia, Sony, and Dyson. As the former Head of Design at Google X, he spearheaded projects on groundbreaking technologies such as brain-computer interfaces and intelligent robotics. Known for his approachable style, Foster coined the term “future mundane” in 2013, pushing boundaries and encouraging audiences to perceive the future in innovative ways. His extensive experience has led to him being recognized as one of the foremost voices in speculative design, earning accolades like the title of Royal Designer for Industry.

With his presentations, Foster vehemently rejects the convention of prediction and forecast, instead aiming to provoke thought that can help audiences re-engage with their imaginations and aspirations. He evokes a vision of a future that is an extension of the present, crafted by human hands and inhabited by relatable individuals.

About Spark Salons

Spark Salons are designed to bring together remarkable individuals from various fields to foster dialogue that challenges perspectives and deepens community connections. Past speakers have included experts in psychology, art, and neuroscience, all contributing unique insights that encourage rich discussions.

As part of the mission behind Unlikely Collaborators, these gatherings focus on helping people challenge entrenched perceptions and consider new possibilities for understanding themselves and the world. The organization's foundation is built on fostering awareness of our Perception Box™, which leads to transformative change.

In conclusion, the Spark Salon on February 11 offers a unique opportunity for individuals eager to engage with new ideas about the future. Register now to be part of this insightful conversation led by an expert in designing futures, Nick Foster.