New conference spotlights San Antonio's creative community
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San Antonio is set to hold its first conference focused on how creative industries are shaping the future of the local economy.
Why it matters: San Antonio has long been known as a city by and for creatives — people whose work helps define the city's personality. But their economic contributions aren't always recognized.
By the numbers: The local creative sector generated $5.18 billion in economic output in 2023, with more than 20,800 jobs, per a study commissioned by the city.
- Of that, design and advertising contributed $1.32 billion to the local economy.
State of play: The Creative Futures Conference, running April 10-11 across several downtown locations, will offer keynote speakers, panel discussions, workshops and more.
- Attendees will include designers, founders, artists, developers and strategists from across the country, per a press release.
- Programming will focus on four areas: creative industries, innovation and technology, community and cultural impact, and entrepreneurship and economic growth.
What they're saying: "San Antonio's creative economy is thriving, but there has never been a dedicated space at this scale for our creative community to connect, share ideas and accelerate new opportunities," conference founder Ja'el Thompson said in a statement.
- "This conference is about unlocking that potential and positioning San Antonio as a leading creative city."
Zoom in: Session topics will range from artificial intelligence and creative work to storytelling and media to startup growth.
- Expect to hear from speakers Steven Darby, founder of San Antonio creative studio Heavy Heavy; Michael Fugoso of Adobe; and filmmaker Hallease Narvaez.
- There will be a live recording of the "Big City Small Town" podcast hosted by local journalist Bob Rivard.
- One session is a live design competition from the San Antonio Association of Graphic Designers.
- There will also be a hands-on art making session in multiple mediums, including collage, screen printing and clay.
If you go: A single-day ticket costs $35. A pass for both days costs $94, which includes swag, priority workshop seating and early check-in access.
- Find the full schedule online.