In October, RI Humanities joins with the RI State Council on the Arts (RISCA), Governor Daniel J. McKee, the White House, and the United States Congress to celebrate Arts and Humanities Month in Rhode Island and nationwide. Read Governor McKee’s proclamation here!
This collective recognition of the importance of the arts and humanities is an excellent opportunity to uplift the tremendous impact of Rhode Island’s rich cultural sector. Keep an eye on communications from RI Humanities and RISCA for events and resources throughout the month! Highlights include:
October 7: 50Fest!
On Saturday, October 7 from 12:00-5:00 pm at WaterFire Arts Center, Rhode Island Humanities takes 50 years of humanities out of the box in a rare and exciting display of culture, history, and visions of civic life. Dive into RI’s complex politics and unique history at a MINI FILM FESTIVAL featuring documentaries supported by RI Humanities grants. Explore an EXHIBITION OF VIVID POSTERS for public events that shaped and inspired communities. Share memories and create connections during LEAVINGS: A Communal Activity led by artists and public humanities practitioners Becci Davis and Holly Ewald. Reflect on your hopes for Rhode Island’s future in the PORTRAIT STUDIO with photographer Jonathan Pitts-Wiley.
The festival is FREE and open to the public, with complimentary coffee, boba tea, and water.
For accessibility information and to register, click here!
October 11: Arts and Health Conversation: A Community Primer on Arts and Health, Online
Click here for details and to register.
October 12: Celebrating the Life and Work of Jeannine Chartier at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum. Co-hosted by Arts Equity, the RISD Museum, and RISCA. Click here to register.
October 14: “The Wisdom of the African American Spirituals Tradition: From Slave Fields to Concert Halls” a workshop with Dr. Arthur C. Jones at the Providence Public Library, 10:00 am – 12:00pm. Click here for details and to register. Free and open to all, and are supported in part by grants from the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island, the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts, and the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities.
October 15: “Life Every Voice and Sing” concert at 5:00 pm by the Rhode Island College (RIC) Choral Program at All Saints’ Memorial Church, 674 Westminster Street, Providence. Free and open to all, and are supported in part by grants from the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island, the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts, and the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities. Click here for more details.
October 21: Rhode Island’s 45th Annual Heritage Festival
Join in a lively celebration of our state’s rich cultural heritage, organized by Rhode Island Historical Preservation and Heritage Commission! This unique festival bridges Rhode Islanders’ cultures and expressions of creative talent. Rhode Island heritage groups will present cultural exhibits, visual art, music, dance, and craft demonstrations from all over the world. There will be food trucks offering an array of traditional foods and drinks. The children’s area will have free face painting, arts, and crafts. Admission to this family-friendly event is FREE. Click here for more details.
October 25: R.I. Arts Data Dashboard for Community Based Organizations, Online
Click here for details and to register.
November 9: Atrium Gallery, Solo Exhibition with works by Angel Beth Smith, opening reception. One Capitol Hill. In person, 4:00 – 7:00 pm. Free and open to the public.
Check the RI Humanities calendar and RISCA calendar for updates and more information on Arts & Humanities Month events.