Digifest, a digital media conference taking place in Toronto from Oct. 26-30, 2011 hosted by George Brown College offers digital media novices and graphic designers alike a chance to explore innovation in the areas of digital culture, robotics, video games, television, film and art. Taking place at various locations in downtown Toronto, Digifest features exhibits, presentations, networking receptions, keynote addresses and opening and closing gala parties. While many of the exhibits are free, the keynote presentations such as Meet the Media Guru segments are ticketed with student discounts. Highlights include presentations by:
- Dr. Sara Grimes of the University of Toronto’s Faculty of Information discussing the regulatory implications of DIY game design;
- Ron Burnett, President & Vice-Chancellor, Emily Carr University of Art & Design, examining the role of schools in global and digital cultures;
- Dr. Asi Burak, Co-President, Games for Change, on the social impact of video games on learning;
- Eugene Fiume, Professor and Co-Director, Dynamic Graphics Project, analyzing what makes good computer-aided visual communication.
Digifest also offers fun activities to explore digital culture including a Halloween Spooktacular event at St. Lawrence North Market on Sat., Oct. 29 from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. The party, hosted by DJ Jeff Hayward, is $20 and includes one free drink. On Sun., Oct. 30, Sunday Funday, a free all-day event at Yonge-Dundas Square, includes band performances including Toronto band Tiny Danza, digital activities and karaoke. The closing party wraps up the festival on Sun., Oct. 30 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts, 1 Front St. E. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, mingling and watch premiered digital art by new media artists on the Sony Ziri’s Wall.
