Ideas Summit: Intersections in the Arts

Day 3: June 29, 2024 10:00AM–5:00PM

Join us on June 29 to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of CT Humanities with a day-long summit dedicated to exploring the humanities. Delve into discussions on freedom of speech, expression, and cultural preservation. Gain fresh perspectives on timeless masterpieces and reflect on the past, present, and future of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Come together to engage and celebrate the enduring significance of the arts in our society.

Perspectives on Cultural Preservation

Ideas Summit: Intersections in the Arts

Sandy Grande, Professor of Native American and Indigenous Studies, and an additional panelist yet to be announced, share their different views on preserving cultures. They will discuss why it's important to protect our cultural identities as the world changes and why it's essential to save different cultural traditions for the people who come after us.

Midnight Oil Collective: Breaking Barriers: Transforming the Starving Artist Myth into Sustainable Creativity

Ideas Summit: Intersections in the Arts

Artists are passionate catalysts for change, envisioning a world transformed for the better through the power of art. Yet, they often face a persistent struggle: the dream of art inspiring change versus the systemic barriers of scarcity of funding, resources, and support. This tension stifles their creative potential and their role in driving societal progress.

Freedom of Expression

Ideas Summit: Intersections in the Arts

Get ready to be inspired by an important talk about the culture wars happening in the United States focusing on how more and more books are being banned and restricted. Find out about the problems librarians and teachers have to deal with as they try to handle these tricky issues. Delve into the importance of intellectual freedom and the role of education in fostering diverse perspectives. Learn about how to make sure everyone can get information and keep schools' fair.

TRANSforming Shakespeare

Ideas Summit: Intersections in the Arts

Discover the transformative power of creative casting in "TRANSforming Shakespeare." In a rapidly evolving world, delve into how gender concepts shape our interpretations of Shakespearean tales. Join Jennifer Lanier from the Original Practice Shakespeare Festival, alongside esteemed guests to soon be announced, as they explore the dynamic intersection of gender representation and theatrical storytelling. Don't miss this discussion on how diverse casting enhances our understanding and appreciation of Shakespeare's timeless works.

Turning to the Humanities in Challenging Times with Shelly Lowe and Jason Mancini

Ideas Summit: Intersections in the Arts

Shelly C. Lowe (Navajo), Chair of the National Endowment for the Humanities, and Jason Mancini, Executive Director of Connecticut Humanities, will discuss the  critical role the humanities play in tackling society’s toughest contemporary challenges. Chair Lowe will highlight new National Endowment for the Humanities initiatives that respond to some of the most pressing issues of our time:  strengthening our democracy, advancing equity for all, and addressing our changing climate.