Life on Planet Earth and in this country has become kind of complicated, have you noticed? There is a lot to discuss, and yet most of us exchange ideas in driblets on social media or in text messaging and images. That’s why the annual free event, Night of Ideas, hosted by the Villa Albertine, which brings together thinkers, artists, and cultural organizations to explore what unites, holds such appeal. The event, themed “Common Ground,” will occupy the entire Wende Museum, from garden to rooftop, from galleries to theater and classrooms. Food trucks and drinks will provide carbo-loading and liquid stimulation.
A lineup of artists, scholars, and innovators will gather for inspiring talks, performances, art, and collective imagination, addressing such topics as:
- Impact of wildfires and urban planning in Los Angeles
- Global significance of the Paris and LA Olympics
- Historical ties between the U.S. and France through Haiti
- Literature as a borderless space,
- Intersection of AI, privacy, and surveillance.
These are the peeps the Villa Albertine has gathered for thought and conversation. The schedule is so cool! Have a look: https://nightofideas.org/los-angeles/schedule/#schedule-14039
The evening will also highlight sustainability initiatives like the Biophilia Treehouse Project and reflect on the intersection of human history and ecological change. Seems weighty doesn’t it. But for those of us who are not in a university or think tank environment, it’s a rare opportunity to tune in and turn off the world, ponder, and listen to others.
Too much gabbing? Then, you can stargaze led by the experts of the Los Angeles Astronomical Society, offering a view of the night sky and a chance to contemplate our place in the universe. Finally, gather around the fire pit for a storytelling session—a warm space for sharing and listening to stories that inspire collective understanding.
Night of Ideas: Common Ground, hosted by Villa Albertine Los Angeles | Wende Museum, Culver City | April 5, rsvp here