2026 Symposium Series:
Altered States

As part of our commitment to strengthening contemporary art discourse in the region, Great Meadows Foundation initiated a state-wide symposium series to provide forums for discourse while also bringing critical voices into the studios of Kentucky artists.

Beginning in 2026, symposia will be held each year in Louisville, Northern Kentucky, Central Kentucky and Western Kentucky based on a central theme. Each regional committee will interpret this theme and invite speakers, including two from outside the state, to address it at its symposium.

The speakers from outside the state will be invited to stay in the region for an additional two days to conduct studio visits and engage with the local arts community via lectures, classroom visits, master classes, and related activities. This will augment the Critic-in-Residence program and the positive response artists have expressed to having new voices critiquing their work.

The theme for the 2026 Symposium Series is “Altered States.” Sign up for our newsletter and check back here for more details and event dates.

Past events:

March 28, 2026 | The Carnegie | Covington, KY

Find the full schedule of speakers here, and watch the day’s presentations on our YouTube channel.

Upcoming events:

September 18, 2026 | Gray Design Building, University of Kentucky | Lexington, KY

October 17, 2026 | KMAC Contemporary Art Museum | Louisville, KY

November 18, 2026 | Western Kentucky University | Bowling Green, KY