ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Circles Conference prioritizes connection over spectacle in Grapevine, Texas

festival-fair · 2026-07-27

Founded by Ismael Burciaga, Circles Conference intentionally creates space for genuine human connection, prioritizing conversations between talks over packed schedules. The event features 40-minute talks, extended breaks, and long lunches to foster networking. Speakers are accessible to attendees during breaks, meals, and after-parties. Taking place September 30–October 2 in Grapevine, Texas, the conference has grown in size and reach while maintaining its community-driven focus. Burciaga emphasizes that the conference is designed to remind designers they are better together, offering a balance between world-class speakers and intimate interactions. The event includes dedicated after-parties for design and film to deepen connections.

Key facts

  • Circles Conference was founded by Ismael Burciaga.
  • The conference takes place September 30–October 2 in Grapevine, Texas.
  • Talks are 40 minutes long with extended breaks and long lunches.
  • Speakers are accessible to attendees throughout the event.
  • The conference prioritizes connection over packed schedules.
  • Attendance has more than doubled since early years.
  • Dedicated after-parties for design and film have been added.
  • The event draws creatives from nonprofits, Fortune 500 companies, startups, and freelance backgrounds.

Entities

Artists

  • Ismael Burciaga

Institutions

  • Circles Conference
  • Adobe MAX
  • PRINT Magazine

Locations

  • Grapevine
  • Texas
  • United States

Sources