Are people creating uplifting media in today’s world? Is there anyone helping to bring those creations to light? If those people exist, where can we find them?
They exist, and there is somewhere to find them.
This fall, October 19–21, over 450 writers, musicians, artists, editors, filmmakers, and publishers will gather at Utah Valley University for the ninth annual conference of Latter-day Saints in Publishing, Media, and the Arts (LDSPMA). You can be there too.
Since the first conference in 2015, LDSPMA has brought together professional and aspiring creators in many forms of media and a wide range of genres. And it’s not all “churchy stuff.” The conference supports creators of any content, religious or secular, ranging from sci-fi novels to watercolors.
Previous keynote speakers have included Alex Boye, Sheri Dew, and Janice Kapp Perry. Last year, Mauli Bonner shared his adventures in filming My Name is Green Flake, a film telling the story of long-forgotten Black pioneers. This year’s keynote speakers include
- John Bytheway, inspirational author and speaker
- Bonnie L. Oscarson, former Young Women General President
- Steven Sharp Nelson, cellist for The Piano Guys
- A Deseret Book panel consisting of the company’s president and multicultural team
A great conference is more than just sitting and listening to speakers. There are many opportunities for attendees to connect and actively participate. From 13 deep-dive workshops on Thursday to Saturday’s guided tours of the Church’s motion picture studio, there are ample opportunities to meet and connect with the folks who make writing, art, and media happen.
LDSPMA’s leaders believe in developing the talents and abilities of all creators, and they continue to expand available opportunities to that end. At this year’s conference, themed “Connecting Faith, Creativity, and Skill,” attendees will be able to pitch books to publishers in-person and virtually; receive feedback from peers and industry professionals on their social media presence, art, music, or manuscript queries; and connect with “in the trenches'' creators such as New York Times bestselling author Brandon Mull.
Because the conference coincides with fall break for many Utah school districts, this year’s conference offers a special 75%-off price for 12–18-year-olds. There is also a 50%-off discount for college students.
For more information, go to LDSPMA.org, where you can register with the code LDS-LIVING for a $30 discount.
Editor’s note: The claims, facts, and information in this sponsored article have not been verified by LDS Living, and LDS Living does not endorse any claim or product herein.