The Bend Mercantile
April 23, 2026 | 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Event Details
This event is free and open to the public, no ticket required!
The Bend Mercantile is where everyday goods, community, and storytelling meet. Located in a building rich with Tulsa film history, The Bend draws its name from the iconic plaque honoring The Outsiders and Rumblefish, stories rooted deeply in the city’s creative legacy.
This Shop Talk stop invites attendees to explore how The Bend curates goods with intention, balancing practical bodega staples with unexpected finds for everyday living. You will hear how their commitment to community connection, ethical sourcing, reasonable pricing, and curiosity shapes both their shelves and their customer experience.
Shop Talk events are relaxed, welcoming, and designed for conversation. Join us to tour the space, learn from a local business built on story and craft, and connect with other creatives along the way.
Speaker Works
Always Open to the Community
All club events are open to the public!
Events are always free for ADCT members, and tickets are available to purchase online or in-person at every event.
Bringing The Community Together
ADCT Events
For decades, the Art Directors Club of Tulsa has hosted events that not only bring the creative community together but also provide a powerful platform for creators to share their ideas and experiences. These gatherings have served as a space for education, inspiration, and meaningful dialogue—showcasing both local & national talent and fostering connections that strengthen our creative landscape. Through keynote speakers, Shop Talks, and community-driven initiatives, we continue to support growth, learning, and collaboration across generations.
Speaker
Each season brings notable guest speakers from the creative industry including designers, illustrators, photographers, art directors and more. They come from around the country to inspire our advertising and art community.
Shop Talk
A free event that gives our membership base and the Tulsa community an opportunity to join us for a behind the scenes look at inspirational places and people in our city. Previous Shop Talks have included tours, Q&A’s, and open houses. We use this time to get to know each other, share ideas, and keep things casual.
Graphex
An annual art and design competition featuring the best work of Tulsa creatives! Guest judges from across the country critique both professional and student work. Student portfolio winners are awarded cash prizes and winning work will be on display and celebrated during an elegant award ceremony.
Kern & Burn
An annual fast-paced design competition where designers, copywriters, misfits and creatives of all types band together to crank out their best work under the tightest deadlines. Teams must fight their way through 3 fiery rounds of audience banter and fierce judgment, using only the design assets provided to them.