The Parsons Scholars Program is proud to announce the third annual Art, Community, and Self-Sustainability Conference. This event invites creative communities to connect through conversations and creative exploration focused on sustaining ourselves as artists, designers, educators, and community members.

This year’s theme, Sustaining Creative Lives, reflects our shared interest in exploring how creative practice, community care, and reflection support long-term artistic growth and well-being. This year’s breakout sessions will explore topics such as rest as sustainable practice, letting go of stress, and understanding the power of artists in breaking down systemic barriers.

Our 2026 keynote speaker, artist, designer, and educator Professor Cynthia Lawson Jaramillo, will lead a session on Sustainable Slowness, inviting participants to consider how slowing down within creative practice, collaboration, and daily life can support more thoughtful and sustainable ways of making and being in community.

The conference creates space to explore mental, physical, and creative well-being with special attention to the experiences and needs of artists and designers.

We are excited to gather with our community and beyond for a day of reflection, making, and connection. Please join us for community building, creative exploration, and collective care.

Breakfast and lunch will be provided.