On July 20, 2026, a complimentary retrospective lecture will be held at York Amphitheatre on the Concordia University campus in Montreal to honor illustrator Donald Caron. The event coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Fantasia Festival, which began in 1997, and aims to recognize Caron’s long‑standing contribution to the festival’s visual identity through his poster designs.
Caron has created the official posters for Fantasia Festival for more than two decades, shaping the visual language that accompanies the annual celebration of genre cinema. His work, first commissioned at the festival’s inception, has become synonymous with the event’s brand, appearing on promotional materials and in the public eye each year.
The free lecture, organized by both Fantasia Festival and Concordia University, will offer attendees an overview of Caron’s artistic process, the evolution of his designs, and the role of poster art in festival marketing. The program is open to the public, inviting students, film enthusiasts, and members of the creative community to explore the intersection of illustration and event branding.
Fantasia Festival, now in its third decade, continues to be a major cultural fixture in Montreal, showcasing a wide range of international films. By highlighting Caron’s contributions, the festival underscores the importance of visual storytelling in its outreach efforts. The collaboration with Concordia University provides a venue that connects academic resources with the city’s vibrant arts scene.
The lecture will take place at York Amphitheatre, a campus space known for hosting cultural events. No admission fee is required, and participants are encouraged to arrive early as seating is limited. The event marks a rare opportunity to hear directly from the artist whose work has defined the festival’s public face for thirty years.