Springfield’s creative economy is not just growing; it is finding its own voice. While typically an area known for its natural beauty and strong sense of community, a broader cultural landscape is emerging.
In recent years, Springfield has become a booming hub for artists, writers, gamers, and digital storytellers who are building something meaningful in the Ozarks. At the center of this creative boom is Tremendicon, a regional event that has evolved into more than a traditional comic convention.
Under the leadership of David Stanfield, Jeffrey Marcus, Amy Kern, Deanna Powell, Rhonda Evans, Dakota Hetz, and Elatia Webb, who also oversee Tremendicon as a nonprofit, the event is built around a clear mission: to advance and support the artistic community in the greater Springfield area.
Each year, the convention hosts celebrity guests, fan-favorite panels, vendors, cosplay, and collectibles. And woven through it all is an intentionality designed to connect creators and aspiring artists with professional mentors who provide feedback and opportunities that might not be found elsewhere.
This year’s guest list reflects the excitement and growth that has come to define the event. Acclaimed comic writer Cullen Bunn, known for his work with Marvel, DC, and a wide range of independent titles, brings national recognition to the event. For longtime readers, his storytelling has shaped major characters and story arcs across the comic industry. His presence, as well as the presence of many others, signals the draw of the event for respected professionals who are willing to invest in the next generation.
He says, “Tremendicon offers a unique opportunity for aspiring creators. It definitely provides networking opportunities, giving attendees a chance to meet and interact with those who have been working professionally in the industry.” He goes on to praise the educational programming, guidance, and overall inspiration of the event.
This kind of access is rare in smaller artistic markets. For young artists in the Ozarks, opportunities to connect directly with professionals can mean the difference between hobby and career.
“If I had attended a convention like Tremendicon earlier in my career, I think I might have broken in as a professional writer much sooner than I actually did,” he says.
For artist Lance Sawyer, that statement is equally true. Lance’s journey began in the third grade when he realized he had a talent for drawing and made the decision to take that gift seriously. The early spark in his elementary years led to professional work with Topps Card Company and Upper Deck, contributing to licensed properties including Star Wars projects and Marvel card sets. He has also been involved in independent comic productions, building a career of which most young artists can only dream.
After stepping away from the industry for a time, Lance revitalized his career and, today, most of his current work intersects directly with Tremendicon and the event team.
“Amy and David are amazing people,” he says. “Our whole staff is great. The board is awesome. There’s so much creativity and talent and love for what we’re doing. There’s a real positivity and family feeling.”
Lance’s connection to Tremendicon began almost by accident. After moving to Missouri, he met David at a local comic bookstore and, through casual conversation, ended up having a table at last year’s convention.
He says that the Tremendicon community mirrors Springfield’s culture. That is an observation that matters. Communities that nurture artists tend to see broader economic and cultural growth, meaning what happens inside the convention hall is already rippling outward into the very identity of the city.
With its growing art scene, food culture, and sense of family, there is a swell of pride developing in the community that's becoming increasingly appealing to creative minds.
Mentorship and collaboration are at the core of Amy Kern’s broader philosophy for Tremendicon in the Springfield area. Her desire, she says, is to build pathways where artists begin to see Springfield as a viable home base for serious creative work.
One of Lance’s favorite Tremendicon moments illustrates why mentorship is central to the event. During a panel, a 16-year-old artist named Jade asked how to create art without fear of backlash. Lance answered the question honestly, explaining that artists should not be afraid to explore ideas or create things that make people think. Later, she came to his table and asked him to review her portfolio. Two hours after their conversation, she returned to say she had secured a table for next year’s convention.
When established professionals sit across the table from local artists, the distance between Springfield and the national creative industry shrinks. What remains is a shared space, a conversation, and the first step towards something bigger in the Ozarks.
Tremendicon continues to grow in size and influence, but its true impact is measured in the transformed confidence of local artists. If the energy surrounding the event is any indication, the community is not merely consuming artistic industries, it is beginning to take part in them. And for people in the Ozarks, this represents a declaration that Springfield is a place actively contributing to the creative scene on a national level, not just sitting on the sidelines.
To learn more, visit https://tremendicon.com/
"...the event is built around a clear mission: to advance and support the artistic community in the greater Springfield area."