The Art & Ideas Festival is presented every two years by a consortium of Pasadena-area arts, science and cultural institutions.  Collaborating partners choose a theme which lends itself to multiple perspectives that are both innovative and timely, and creatively interpret the theme according to their institutional focus. Drawing on the strengths of Pasadena area arts and culture, educational, and research institutions, Art & Ideas provides a range of cultural and educational activities for mainstream public audiences — original programming that inspires public dialogue and works to contribute to arts appreciation and intellectual growth in creative and meaningful ways. The goal for Art & Ideas is to be artistically and intellectually resonant to a diverse audience and a changing world.

For the 2009 theme, the collaborating partners have chosen ORIGINS, and they will explore and interpret this theme through specially curated exhibitions and programs from October 23rd through November 8, 2009. The origins of political dissent, storytelling, crafts and architecture—in addition to deeper questions about the rise of man, faith and the universe—are just a few of the many ways in which this unique theme will be interpreted through dance, visual art, music, architecture, theater, film, photography and literature.

Festival Team @ Pasadena Arts Council

Terry LeMoncheck
Executive Director

Katy Hilton
Development & Program Associate

Counterintuity, LLC