Ferris State University is gearing up to participate in Confluence, a two-day event set to take place on September 20-21 in downtown Grand Rapids. This free festival will showcase a blend of art, music, science, and technology, providing a platform for students and the community to explore innovative and creative fields.
The university’s involvement in Confluence will highlight various programs that lead to careers in art, music, science, and technology. Faculty and staff from Ferris State are planning to showcase AI-generated 3D art and design, tech-forward fashion created by students from the Pamella Roland DeVos School of Fashion at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris University, as well as AI-generated art by renowned artists like Tylonn Sawyer and local designer Phil Renato.
Bobby Fleischman, Ferris‘ Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, expressed excitement about the event, stating, „West Michigan is a growing hub of innovation, technology, and the arts. Confluence is an excellent opportunity to introduce people to careers in rapidly evolving fields and highlight the impactful work of our Ferris State faculty.“
Confluence, founded in 2021, aims to provide a fun and engaging gateway into the innovation that is shaping our ever-evolving world. The festival will feature esports tournaments, a Robotics Expo showcasing the region’s top middle and high school teams, a Maker Expo highlighting the DIY community, a Future Innovators Zone with STEAM-based activities for kids, and much more.
The event serves as the capstone experience for Tech Week GR, with a new activity called Friday@Confluence kicking off the weekend on September 20. This interactive tour through the region’s tech-forward arts and culture scene will feature AI-powered art, fashion presentations, live concerts, DJ sets, food trucks, and more, all taking place in and around Rosa Parks Circle.
Friday@Confluence is free and open to the public, running from 6 to 10 p.m. Presenting Sponsor for the event is Grand Rapids Community College, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in driving education and innovation forward.
Attendees can look forward to engaging activities such as an instrument petting zoo presented by School of Rock, where they can jam on guitars, drums, and other instruments. An outdoor bar will offer signature cocktails from Tito’s Handmade Vodka and beer selections from Samuel Adams.
For those interested in learning more about the festival, complete details can be found on the official Confluence website at www.confluencefest.com. Presenting sponsors for the event include Dematic, Ferris State, GRCC, Grand Valley State University, and Steelcase, with additional support from various event partners and media sponsors.
Confluence promises to be an exciting and educational event that brings together the worlds of art, music, science, and technology in a vibrant and interactive setting. It’s an opportunity for students, families, and the community to explore the possibilities of innovation and creativity in a dynamic and engaging environment.
