Local artists, makers and creators, authors, writers and media personalities will gather to celebrate and showcase independent media and the impact on culture, media and the arts. IndyCon is an artists, makers and creators fair planned for April 19th from 10am to 4pm at SOU Rogue River Room. Local artists, authors, creators and media influencers will be there to exhibit their work and network with experts and peers.
Everyone is invited to this free event which includes artists booths, vendors and activities to explore. Music and story telling, as well as panel discussions and deep dives into topics like artificial intelligence and the future of community media.
The impact of Artificial Intelligence on arts, journalism and culture will be explored in deep dive panel discussions. Panelists include:
Anna Ford, the Education Manager and Youth Media Producer at Southern Oregon PBS, where she is committed to creating educational opportunities that empower the community.
Micah BlackLight, digital artist, writer, speaker, and coach known for his work in visual arts, music, and empowerment projects.
Teighe Thorson, a campaign content strategist and AI ethics advocate. She helps mission-driven institutions tell powerful stories that drive action – and trains teams to use “AI as a partner, Not a replacement.” in their creative and marketing workflows, so they can amplify their impact without losing the plot – or their principles.
The panel will discuss the real life impacts of AI and what digital artists and media creators should expect from this new tool.
Additional panels thought the day include discussion on the future of community journalism and the impact of executive orders on independent reporting and coverage of critical issues like climate change. Participants will learn from local media experts about current and upcoming trends and what strategies and tools exist to make us better informed media consumers.
This is a family-friendly event. There will be activities for children, teens and youth alike. Kids can create and build in Lego World and explore the space with and find Easter eggs at hosted Media Scavenger Hunts. Musical guests will perform throughout the day. There will be lots of swag to collect and prizes to win.
Local independent community news and media will be explored with KSKQ Community Radio, celebrating 20 years in the community, reporters with Ashland.News and the Ashland Chronicle. Media personalities include the hosts of the Pop Culture Radio Show and Jim Falkenstein, local author and host of the 5-minute City Council meeting. Sponsors include Studio 10 Ashland, Southern Oregon Jobs with Justice and the Rogue Valley Metaphysical Center.
For more information call Jason Houk at 541-841-8341 or email Jason@kskq.org.