Marquise Stillwell is the founder and principal of Openbox, a New York-based design and innovation consultancy, and the founder of Deem Journal, a publication focused on exploring design as a social practice.
Stillwell’s career as a designer and community builder is defined by a deep curiosity about how people interact with their environments and the systems that shape their experiences. This has been the driving force behind his two-decade-long career, during which he has focused on creating inclusive spaces that foster community engagement and enhance the human experience.
As the founder of Openbox, Marquise Stillwell has led numerous museum exhibition projects that prioritise the voices of local communities. His work ensures that exhibitions are visually compelling and deeply resonate with the communities they serve, making museums more accessible and inclusive.
One of his most significant contributions to the field is his ability to integrate community outreach into the core of museum projects. By actively engaging with residents, stakeholders, and cultural groups, Marquise Stillwell ensures that his exhibitions reflect the unique needs, histories, and aspirations of the communities they represent. This approach enriches the exhibitions’ content and fosters a sense of ownership and pride among community members.
His commitment to community-centred design is further exemplified through his co-founding Deem Journal. Through this platform, he continues to explore how museums and cultural institutions can serve as powerful tools for social change by embracing inclusivity and fostering connections between people and their environments.
“Marquise’s contributions to museum exhibition projects, particularly his focus on community outreach and engagement, have made a lasting impact on the field,” said one nominator. “His work exemplifies how museums can serve as platforms for social change by embracing inclusivity and fostering meaningful connections between people and their environments.
“Marquise’s influence continues to shape the future of museum design, making him a true leader and innovator.”