Have questions? Please contact us at conference@saqa.art.
REGISTRATION FEES:
Early Bird Registration (available through Nov 25): $490 - a $50 savings!
Regular registration (after Nov 25): $540
A limited number of conference scholarships will be available. Deadline to apply December 15.
CONFERENCE ADD-ON OPTIONS
Use the link below to add on the Wednesday Dinner cruise ($80) and/or banquet guest ($100). Note that you will still need to register for the full conference.
What is your cancellation / refund policy?
- Any registration fee refund must be requested in writing via email to conference@saqa.art and received by March 1, 2025. A $50 cancellation fee will be deducted from your refund.
- After March 1, 2025, no refunds will be made. We encourage you to send a qualified substitute if you cannot attend.
- SAQA will not be responsible for any losses incurred by registrants, including, but not limited to, airline cancellation charges or hotel deposits. Travelers’ insurance is suggested.
- SAQA reserves the right to cancel the event and return all fees in the event of insufficient registration.
- SAQA’s liability is limited to the registration fee.
What is included in my conference registration?
The conference fee includes access to all the presentations from Thursday ice-breaker through Sunday noon. Meals are provided at the Ice Breaker reception, Friday lunch, and Spotlight Auction / Banquet. All other meals are NOT included.
What is the Wednesday Dinner Cruise?
We will be offering an optional dinner cruise on Wednesday April 2nd. This sunset sailing will offer a fine dining experience, entertainment and dancing with some of the best waterfront views. The cost is $80 per person (a limited number of guest spots are allowed).
Can I bring a guest?
Only registered guests can attend the presentations and meals. Guests can accompany registered attendees to the Saturday banquet for a $100 fee. Limited spots are available - you can pay via this link. Guests can also attend the Wednesday Dinner Cruise for $80.
Are there discounted hotel rooms available?
SAQA has reserved a block of hotel rooms at the Hilton at a special rate for conference attendees. Click here for more information. These do sell out quick - don't delay in making your reservation!
What were the effects of the hurricanes to the hotel/local area?
The hotel only had minor damage which will be resolved by April. Here is some information about the rest of the area.
How can I connect with other attendees before the conference?
We will NOT be using the Whova platform for this conference. Instead, we have created a conference-only Facebook group. Attendees will also be added to an attendee contact list which will be shared with others. You can opt in or out of this list on your registration form.
Where can I find details about the schedule?
The conference schedule is available here. We will have a more complete schedule (including a printable version) closer to the event. We will also have some printed copies of the schedule at the conference.
Will there be any virtual events to watch if I cannot come to the conference?
No, the 2025 conference will NOT include any virtual component - presentations will not be recorded or streamed. We will offer a virtual conference in 2026 where everyone can participate.
How will the Spotlight Auction work?
The Spotlight Auction will be an online event so everyone can participate - you do NOT have to attend the conference to submit a piece OR bid. Conference attendees will be able to view all the pieces in person (and take their winning bids home). All bidding will be done on mobile devices via Handbid (tablets will be available for those without phones).
Will there be any breakout sessions or concurrent events?
Based upon attendee feedback from previous conferences, we will not be offering concurrent breakout sessions at this conference. Everyone will be able to attend all the presentations in the main ballroom. You do not need to make a selection at registration.
How do you accommodate special food requirements?
All hotel meals are served buffet style and will include gluten-free and vegan options. If you have a serious food allergy, please let us know on the registration form. However, we cannot guarantee that all requests can be accommodated. If you have specific concerns, please email us at conference@saqa.art.
Do you offer single day rates?
If space is available, single day rates may be made available in March. There are limited spots for the conference - early registration is recommended.
Are there any workshops?
SAQA has not traditionally included hands-on workshops with our conference. We offer presentations focused on professional and creative development, and tours of local art venues. Since there are so many other places to take workshops, we feel that focusing on different kinds of opportunities make our conferences a valuable experience in a different way.
Do I have to be a SAQA member to attend?
Yes, you do have to be a SAQA member to attend the conference. Not a member yet? Join today!
