GCA Workshop + Retreat 2024

There is a certainty in the printed word, and at Ladyfingers Letterpress, we express that same certainty in the belief that new futures where people are safe, seen, and celebrated are possible. Join us to learn more about how your values and vision can guide the work you make, fuel growth and engage your audience. Colorado Springs-basedLadyfingers Letterpress will share their approach to message-making and longevity in an ever-evolving industry. For the past 14 years, they have joined the art of hand-lettering and letterpress as the basis of their creations, often blurring the lines between art and activism. As a trans and queer-owned business, they create work from their lived experiences and strive to create a world in which others can do the same.

Get the inside scoop with Aaron Draplin, Founder of Field Notes, and learn what goes on behind the scenes at the Draplin Design Co.! He’ll give an in-depth walk through recent projects big, small and downright ugly, including an overview of the Field Notes story. Sometimes, bigger isn't better, and he’ll provide bonafide proof of a ferociously independent existence in the cutthroat world of contemporary graphic design. His methods, momentum and mania in a fun, loose setting. Questions answered. Riddles solved. Enigmas discussed.

Meet industry suppliers in quick 5 minute meetings.

Aaron Draplin returns for a retreat session that gets everyone involved! To start, everyone will get a Field Notes memo book and a pencil. Aaron will start off by explaining how he does what he does, his process and show a couple examples of logo projects. Attendees will get to play a bit, surprise themselves and then Aaron will bring a couple sketches to life in real time. Finally, Aaron will go behind the scenes and answer any questions you might have about what he does, sharing anecdotes from projects from his practice.

Mary Beth Sibert, Director, Creative & Artist Relations at American Greetings moderates this panel of savvy entrepreneur-minded panelists. Wonder what buyers and retailers are looking for when they are shopping for new product? How do each of the panelists look at trends while staying true to their brand/retail store or clients & customers? What are they looking for when purchasing cards/social expression product? This panel will answer all these questions and more!

With significant shifts in the consumer landscape, companies can’t just rely on what they thinkthey know about consumer behavior. Companies that embrace an up-to-date understanding of today and tomorrow’s consumers will be best positioned to succeed. It’s time to look at and understand “what’s now” while preparing for “what’s next.”