Boise Creative Professionals Community

Date: Wednesday, August 19 5:30-7:00 PM
Venue: Boise Main Co-Working Space (2210 W. Main St., Boise ID)
Speaker: Kelly Knopp (Creative Director, 116 & West)

What does it actually take to build a long, sustainable career in creative work today?

In this candid and unfiltered session, Kelly Knopp shares hard-earned lessons from decades in the trenches of advertising, design, and marketing. This is not a highlight reel. It’s the real story. The wins, the frustrations, the brutal truths, and the mindset shifts that separate those who last from those who burn out.
Drawing from a wide-ranging career across agencies, brands, and industries, Kelly breaks down what creatives often get wrong. From confusing assumptions with insight, to chasing “cool” instead of effectiveness, to struggling with communication, criticism, and relevance in an AI-driven world.

You will walk away with a clearer understanding of what actually matters:

• Why unspoken expectations kill projects and relationships
• The difference between ideas and ideas that actually land
• How emotion drives behavior and why that matters more than tools
• What it takes to stay relevant as the industry evolves
• The reality of rejection, pressure, and long-term growth in this field

This is a talk for anyone serious about doing meaningful creative work. Whether you’re just starting out or years into your career, expect a perspective check and a few uncomfortable truths that will make you better.

Join us for the BCPC Meet-Up at 10 Barrel: Free Apps & First 2 Pitchers on Us! on Wednesday, September 16, 5:30–7:00 PM.
Meet in the Banquet Room in the back (by the kitchen)

We're picking up the tab for the appetizers and the first two pitchers—so you can focus on what matters most: meeting fellow creatives, swapping project war stories, and brainstorming your next great idea.

We’ll kick off with a quick round of intros (tell us your name, your superpower, and what design tool you can’t live without), share any hot-off-the-press news, then let the conversation flow freeform. Whether you’re a seasoned pro, a student just starting out, or a freelancer looking for collaborators, come thirsty, come hungry, and bring a buddy...or two!

RSVP now to lock in your spot, and be part of the community driving Boise’s vibrant graphic design & creative scene!

Date: Wednesday, October 21 • 5:30–7:00 PM
Venue: Boise Main Co-Working Space (2210 W. Main St., Boise ID)
Speaker: Alex Rhodes (Rhodes Creative, Nowhere & Friends Studio)

It’s no secret that the creative field is one of the most competitive industries, yet many professionals struggle to position themselves and end up getting lost in the mix. Without an individual voice, unique strengths can go unnoticed, becoming a deafening roar of sameness alongside competitors. Learn what influencers and podcast bros aren’t telling you about forging a successful creative path and leave an impression as sticky as a Waffle House bathroom.