SPARKcon is a showcase of creativity, talent and ideas of “The Creative Hub of the South,” the Triangle NC.

A 100% volunteer effort organized with an “Open Source” approach, SPARKcon is a “creative potluck” of SPARKs or creative themes such as art, music, film, fashion, etc. Each SPARK is put together by individuals who are deeply embedded in that specific local scene. Using a combination of networking and open calls for participants, organizers create diverse and representative events to show off local talent and connect disparate creative scenes. SPARKcon grows every time a new person gets involved with a SPARK category, creating their own event, or joining in to help an existing one. It’s an open-source, “for the people, by the people” approach with an intentionally dynamic focus.

SPARKcon began in 2006, when a group of creative and community-minded people realized that there is an abundance of creative people in the Triangle, but we are unconnected and even invisible to many.  Starting with no financial or managerial backing, this continuously growing group designed a weekend of showcases to celebrate local creative pursuits, and a series of workshops and speakers to nurture the growth and sustainability of our creative future.

September 2009 will be our fourth annual SPARKcon. We’re still just a loose association open to any passionate individual or group who wants to get involved. We’re still grass roots—our money comes from our pockets and the pockets of others excited to support local creativity. The ideas and showcases come from inspired people who have the ingenuity to say “What if…?” and the motivation to then help make it happen.

Each year, we have over 50 organizers, hundreds of local talents are showcased, hundreds of volunteers helping behind the scenes and thousands of attendees. All of these people equal SPARKcon.