ClemsonGC students attend Color Conference 2016

January 18, 2017

Written by Rashaud Wingate (ClemsonGC, class of 2017)

As Graphics Communication students, we are given extraordinary opportunities to attend and participate in conferences, trade shows, and expos that provide us with additional information and understanding about the past, current, and future trends of the printing and design industry. In addition, Graphic Communication students that attend those conferences, trade shows, and expos increase their chances of securing internships/co-ops and job opportunities with a variety of career employers within the Graphics industry.

In December, five ClemsonGC students had the opportunity to attend the 2016 Color Conference in Phoenix, AZ with Dr. Liam O’Hara and Dr. Erica Walker, both of whom presented research at the conference. The conference took place during the week of final exams, which created a conflict for many students, however the five of us, Alyssa Marion (Senior), Rashaud Wingate (Senior), Chelsea Maier (Fall 2016 graduate), Rivers Hiller (Sophomore), and Abby Mayes (Senior) were very eager to attend and opted to go.

The 2016 Color Conference featured a variety of topics and ideas from the past, present, and future trends of the printing and design industry. The topics ranged from expanded gamut, branding, color consistency across different printing processes and methods, and much more. Because the Color Conference offered a large selection of topics related to color, each student had the opportunity to attend seminars or visit tradeshow booths from vendors of their choice. In the beginning, each student did not know what to expect from the color conference. However, the conference offers tracks for beginners, intermediate, and advanced content so each student could attend sessions that fit their prior knowledge and interest in color. As a result, each student left the conference with a better understanding and knowledge of color theory within the printing and design industry no matter where their initial understanding of the topics started. The following students had distinct memories and experiences from the conference:

Alyssa– “Coming into the Color Conference, I really did not know what to expect. All that I knew, was going on a conference meant being exposed to the real world and an opportunity to network with “The Greats.” In addition to networking, one of the best parts of the conference was hearing one of Clemson’s own faculty speak. I attended Dr. O’Hara’s breakout session on the sequence of extended gamut printing.”

Rivers– “I was pleasantly surprised with the experience. I learned a lot and left with a sense of validation that the career I thought I wanted to pursue really was what I wanted and loved. I was surprised to find how much the topics of the conference related to my interest in design. I left the conference having learned a lot, as well as with a newly kindled excitement for the career I hope to pursue.”

Rashaud- “Upon arrival to the Color Conference, I had no idea what it would be like. Having attended the Color Conference, I have gained a better understanding of the application of color within the printing and design industry. I enjoyed myself at the 2016 Color Conference and highly recommend that other Graphic Communication students with a passion for color attend in the future.”

In conclusion, the conference was very valuable for the students that attended because of the networking opportunities. In addition, it allowed us to have a glimpse into the printing and design industry which will better prepare us for whatever role we assume after graduation. Lastly, the conference can help inspire students to explore and value the role of Research and Development in education and in industry.