In March 2004, the Swedish government commissioned a number of public agencies and foundations with the specific task of improving public knowledge of design and increasing its importance. The efforts are being coordinated by The Swedish Society of Crafts and Design (Svensk Form).The large-scale goal is to positively affect the diversity and development of culture and the arts, as well as economic growth, environmental protection and democracy in Sweden and around the world.In New York, the Consulate General of Sweden and the Swedish Trade Council will coordinate showcases of cutting-edge Swedish design in conjunction with the International Contemporary Furniture Fair on May 14-17, 2005. On the agenda is an exhibition entitled Designed in Sweden to be on display at the Felissimo Design House, as well as Sweden by Design, a Swedish pavilion at the Jacob K. Javits Center. > Read more at the website for the 2005 Year of Design