Confluence, a multifaceted festival that explores what’s possible when art, music, science and technology converge, returns for its third year on September 22-23 at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids.

Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University is excited to renew its collaboration with Confluence, promising a dynamic display of creativity and innovation.

“Confluence is a celebration of art, design, and technology with a community of fellow makers and innovators,” says Jon Moroney, KCAD Professor and Product Design Program Chair. “We are excited to demonstrate some of the technologies that enable KCAD students to experiment with their ideas as they pursue their passion for art and design.”

The Maker Expo on Saturday, Sept. 23, presented by Ferris State University, is a diverse showcase of enthusiasts, crafters, hobbyists, engineers, artists, and organizations who create amazing things in celebration of the DIY spirit. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., makers will come together to share their work and experimentation across the spectrum of science, engineering and art.

KCAD’s Maker Expo booth will highlight its product design tools, technologies, and processes, including 3D modeling and rendering, fiber laser cutting, and more.

The booth will offer interactive demonstrations using the fiber laser where visitors can receive a custom engraved coin. KCAD staff and faculty members will be on-site to share how students employ the tools and technologies to take ideas from sketches and digital models to physical objects.

The Innovation Showcase spotlights gaming and the regional organizations that are driving it forward.

This year’s esports competition, co-produced by Ferris State, will host four collegiate teams and four high school teams to compete in Super Smash Bros. tournaments. The winning team in each division will receive prizes and a custom trophy designed and produced by KCAD, utilizing some of the same technologies on display at the college’s Maker Expo booth.

Between matches, festival attendees will be invited to play onstage and experience the full thrill of competition. The tournament and gaming experience runs Saturday, Sept 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All events are free and open to the public. For more information about Confluence Fest, visit confluencefest.com.