shift Design Symposium

The design world is in motion. Ever-evolving, mesmerizing, perplexing. Join AIGA Houston to examine the “shift,” a one-day design symposium in Houston, where we explore the evolution of the design industry and the constantly shifting role of designers as design disciplines expand, overlap, and converge. We invite students, professionals, and leaders who view design as a strategic advantage and a powerful storyteller to engage in sharp conversations and share insightful perspectives.

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When & Where

Saturday, February 28, 2026
10 am – 6 pm

MATCH – Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston
3400 Main St, Houston, TX 77002

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Theme

This year’s theme, A Day in the Life, focuses on the lived realities of creative work—the pressure, the pivots, the practice—and how these shifts are shaking up the industry and careers. Through micro presentations of big ideas, and deep-shift panels, you’ll hear from the ones doing the doing, across disciplines and industries. It’s an honest look at how creative careers are shifting, and what collaboration looks like in motion.

Our objective is to showcase the trending career paths for various design disciplines, the professional experiences of practitioners, and the industries that support them.

We have an amazing lineup of speakers. Check back soon for speaker bios and panel topics.

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Experience & Format

Matchbox 2

• Mini shifts—micro presentations of big ideas by local Houston designers
• Deep shifts—panel discussions with Texas Design leaders

Gallery

• Workshops
• Student Design Exhibition
• Networking
• Partner booths

After-party

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Tickets

AIGA Member: $100
Non Member: $120
Educator: $85
AIGA Student Member: $35
Student Non member: $45

Ticket includes all speaker sessions in Matchbox 2 + Gallery + lunch / snacks / drinks.

Workshop by Letterset: $40

Workshop is sold separately. 2 sessions of the same workshop is offered for your convenience. Ticket includes the gallery visit. Only 30 spots available.

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