AIGA Jacksonville Brings Creative Heat to Always Summer Poster Show 2024
By Jeremiah Akin | December 2024
The industrial-chic space of Phoenix Arts District‘s newest venue, The Emerald Station, transformed into an electric gallery space on December 5th as AIGA Jacksonville presented its Always Summer Poster Show. The event showcased 52 original poster designs from Jacksonville and St. Augustine’s creative community, each piece interpreting the artists’ chosen songs through visual storytelling.
“It was incredible to see everyone gathered together,” said Jesse Sison, AIGA Jacksonville President. “I was proud to see the whole team come together to make our first poster show with a new board such a success.”
A Gallery Experience Reimagined
The Emerald Station, which opened its doors in November, provided the perfect backdrop for this celebration of design. White walls adorned with vibrant posters contrasted beautifully against concrete floors and exposed rafters, while carefully placed modern furniture and gallery-style seating created intimate spaces for conversation and contemplation. DJ Julian Bravard kept the good vibes going throughout the evening, spinning the eclectic mix of songs that inspired the showcased works.
Guests viewing posters at the Always Summer Poster Show
DJ Julian Bravard and AIGA Jacksonville President, Jesse Sison
Celebrating Excellence
The evening’s highlight was the announcement of the Best in Show award, which went to Alexis Valladares for “The World Ender” poster. Valladares’s winning design captivated attendees with its innovative approach and striking visual elements, earning top honors through audience votes.
Alexis Valladares won Best in Show for his poster of Lord Huron’s “The World Ender”
Where Music Meets Design
“What made this year’s show special was that it marked the beginning of a new chapter for AIGA Jacksonville,” said Jeremiah Akin, Programming Director. “The spacious venue allowed everyone to spread out, stand back, and really appreciate the posters. We had strong student participation, giving emerging designers a chance to showcase their work and add a professional exhibition to their resumes.”
Artists from a variety of design backgrounds submitted their posters for our staple event
The submissions demonstrated the incredible diversity of local design talent, with student works displayed alongside pieces from established professionals, creating a true celebration of design at all levels.
Arists and guests enjoying the atmoshphere at The Emerald Station
Building Stronger Connections
The event reflects AIGA Jacksonville’s expanding vision for community engagement. The chapter is actively working to strengthen creative connections throughout Northeast Florida, with new initiatives including both Cocktails and Creatives networking events and Coffee and Creatives gatherings for students and non-drinkers. These events will rotate between Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and surrounding cities, fostering a more inclusive and connected creative community.
While guests enjoyed delicious offerings from Naked Kitchen, the space buzzed with conversation as designers, artists, and art enthusiasts connected over their shared passion for creativity. The event served as a showcase of talent and a vibrant reminder of the strong bonds within our creative community.
Education Board Members Claudia Scaff and Vanessa Cruz helping out at our registration table
Looking Forward
As AIGA Jacksonville continues to foster connections between Jacksonville and St. Augustine’s creative communities, events like the Always Summer Poster Show demonstrate the vital role of design in bringing people together and inspiring new possibilities.
