Bend Design Conference kicks off at OSU Cascades, celebrating 10 years
Cami Porter
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Bend Design Conference kicked off today at Oregon State University – Cascades, marking its 10th anniversary and a new chapter for this popular creative gathering. Running through tomorrow, the event brings together artists, designers, and makers from diverse backgrounds to explore creativity, inspiration, and new approaches to work and community.
For a decade, Bend Design has provided a unique platform for participants to reexamine branding, advertising, and business strategies, while sparking fresh ideas and connections. The conference has broadened its focus over the years to include food, community, and sustainability, reflecting Central Oregon’s innovative spirit.
Today, attendees met at OSU-Cascades to listen to speakers from a range of design disciplines discuss how they find motivation and make a living through their craft.
“So far? Just a lot of inspiration. It’s been really cool to hear people talk about subjects I don’t know a ton about, but they always seem to inform whatever I’m thinking about or working on at the time, so—it’s been great,” shared local artist Jake Kenobi.
OSU-Cascades is known for fostering creativity and bold ideas and was selected as the new venue due to its commitment to interdisciplinary thinking and sustainability. “One of our goals at OSU-Cascades is to really be a place of gathering and of learning for people of all ages and in all areas of life. And so the Bend Design conference, being here on campus, we’re excited for community members to come learn about campus, to come learn together,” said Shannon Lipscomb, associate dean at OSU-Cascades.
Artists from the conference are also opening special exhibits at Scalehouse Gallery in downtown Bend, offering further opportunities for attendees to engage with new works and the local creative community. The conference continues through November 8th, with more workshops and the unveiling of two new gallery exhibitions — AnnexPublic (Art)Works and Disparate, Desperate & Determined.
For tickets, schedules, and a complete list of speakers, visit the Bend Design website.