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The Armadillo World Headquarters wasn't just a stage; it was the epicenter of a cultural revolution in Austin, visually defined by its legendary "Art Squad." Their iconic posters and surreal artwork captured a unique moment in time. But what if that squad existed today?
This interactive session revisits the AWHQ's profound impact on Austin's creative identity and poses a question for the next generation of artists and technologists: What does the Art Squad of the 21st century look like?
Together, we will explore how a modern collective would translate the 'Dillo's rebellious, eclectic spirit into new forms. Join this collaborative discussion as we bridge Austin's celebrated past with the limitless possibilities of its creative future, brainstorming the forms and content that would define a new era of entertainment technology.
Speaker: Stephen Marshall, Ph.D., Armadillo World Headquarters Brand Squad
Stephen Marshall, Ph.D., is a member of the Brand Squad and CEO for the legendary Armadillo World Headquarters (AWHQ), helping to carry on the legacy and ethos of the culture that makes Austin Texas unique while using the brand to build a sustainable arts community. As a media professor at East Tennessee State University, he brings his real-world experience into the classroom. Dr. Marshall has extensive experience in digital marketing and brand storytelling, having developed and taught the Digital Experience Strategies course for Adobe's Experience Cloud, training professionals from top companies like Delta Airlines, Harley Davidson, and Marriott. He also serves on the Digital Marketing Institute’s Global Industry Advisory Council alongside leaders from Google, Meta, and Coca-Cola, shaping the future of digital marketing education. His work bridges the gap between iconic cultural brands and cutting-edge digital strategy, making him a unique voice in the entertainment technology landscape.