The IDEA Phase conference, presented by AIGA Baltimore’s DEIA department, is a one-day event dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in graphic design.
Taking place on October 19, 2024 from 10am–5pm at MICA’s Lazarus Building, the conference will feature a series of speaker sessions and panel discussions showcasing prominent experts in the DEIA field and highlighting the perspectives of artists with disabilities. Attendees will gain valuable insights into integrating DEIA principles into design practices from the outset.
The conference will also offer a hands-on workshop that build on the themes discussed throughout the day, focusing on best practices and design principles that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. We will have a vendor area showcasing the work of local artists. Food and refreshments will be available throughout the event, and tickets are now available.
Tickets
Parking is extremely limited. Attendees are encouraged to take public transportation (bus lines: 51, 59, 94, 95, 103, Green, Silver, and Gold, or the North Ave light rail stop, all of which are close to the venue) or carpool to the event. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Maryland Avenue lot, located at the corner of Maryland and West Lafayette Avenues. Avoid parking in spaces designated for J and M Auto Specialists.
Schedule
10:00–11:00am — Check In, Breakfast, Vendor Marketplace Opens
11:00–11:30am — Introductions
11:30am–12:15pm — Speaking Session with Andrew Copeland
12:15–1:00pm — Speaking Session with Natalia Arias
2:00–2:30pm — Panel Discussion with Stefan Bauschmid and Tyrone Weedon
2:30–3:15pm — Speaking Session with Laura LeBrun Hatcher
3:15–4:00pm — Break, Mingling, Vendor Marketplace
4:00–5:00pm — Workshop with Lauren Ortega
Speakers
Andrew Copeland
Nuanced: How does proximity impact the way we design
In this talk, I will share my observations on how Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Globalization (DEIG) intersect with design and proximity, highlighting how the nuances of distance—whether physical, social, or cultural—create indifference in relationships and impact the inclusivity and empathy in design outcomes.
Natalia Celine Arias
Navigating a Multidisciplinary Journey and Imagining New Design Pathways
In this talk, I share my personal journey as a BIPOC creative navigating diverse career paths and projects. I’ll explore how embracing different roles and life experiences shaped my approach to branding and design. We’ll also dive into the unique challenges I’ve faced and discuss strategies for imagining more inclusive, innovative design practices.
Stefan Bauschmid
Tyrone Weedon
To Put Art and Abilities to Work
The mission of Make Studio is to empower artists with disabilities to grow as professionals with visibility and voice in their communities. We create opportunities for everyone to connect through art. We envision a world of acceptance and inclusion where art opens doors for everyone.
Our presentation will elaborate on said mission and how it is implemented, accompanied by practical examples such as commission work for news media and assorted collaborative efforts.
Laura LeBrun Hatcher
The Gestalt of Change: What my son has taught me about the integration of lived experience & design.
My son, Simon, is an artist and self-advocate with developmental disabilities who transformed the way I perceive the world and my role in it – as a mother, teacher, designer, and human being. In this talk I will share a little of my work, Simon’s art, and some of what I’ve learned about the value of lived experience, the role of perseveration, and what’s possible when we fully recognize and integrate all of the diverse, complex, messy, and marvelous parts of who we are.
Lauren Ortega
Freelance to Freedom
Lauren is the creator of Lodesigns Studio she is a designer with a bachelor’s degree from the School of Visual Arts in NYC. Lauren’s goal is to provide accessible design services for creative business owners and design culture-driven brands that want to make an impact. In this presentation we will be discussing freelancing and how to become a remote freelancer.
Get Involved
If you are interested in speaking, sponsoring, volunteering, vending, or hosting a workshop at our event, please fill out the IDEA Phase Interest Form or email Chanda Vuong at chanda@baltimore.aiga.org.
About AIGA Baltimore
AIGA advances design as a professional craft, strategic advantage and vital cultural force. As the largest community of design advocates, we bring together practitioners, enthusiasts, and patrons to amplify the voice of design and create the vision for a collective future. We define global standards and ethical practices, guide design education, enhance professional development, and make powerful tools and resources accessible to all. Learn more at baltimore.aiga.org
Connect with Us
Follow @aigabaltimore and use #ideaPhase to get updates on the competition and stay connected.
