All PechaKucka talks have the exact same structure: 20 images, each displayed for 20 seconds, adding up to a total time of 6 minutes and 40 seconds. 

Why? Well, according to its inventors, "Because architects talk too much!"

First devised in Tokyo in 2003 as a way for young designers to showcase their work, PechaKucha (which roughly means "chit chat" in Japanese) has since spread to over 750 cities worldwide. Not only are its time limits a welcome relief to Ted Talk–hardened audience members, the restrictive format has a way of pushing speakers to their imaginitive best—or, at the very least, focusing their ideas into concise, digestible messages.

Thursday, August 14, PechaKucha returns to Holocene, courtesy of the Design Museum Portland, which has curated an enticing lineup of chefs, musicians, artists, and businesspeople. The evening's theme: How does summer, Portland's favorite but most ephemeral season, influence their work? 

Doors at 5:30pm. The event is free but space is limited, so register here. 

Speakers:

• Josh McFadden, Ava Genes
• Emma Siolka, BPN
• Jeffrey Morgenthaler, Clyde Common
• Joe McMurrian, Performer and Songwriter
• Benji Wagner, Poler
• Tyler Malek, Salt & Straw
• Jodi Jordan, Umpqua Bank
• Bob Karetsky, Water Sports Instructor
• Chelsea Heffner, WildCraft Studio School
• Keely Montgomery, WTF?! Organizer