Night of Ideas returns to Chicago on Saturday, March 7, 2026, with an introduction by Charlotte Montel, Consul General of France, featuring keynote speaker Gabrielle Lyon, Executive Director of Illinois Humanities; a performance by former Villa Albertine resident and harpist Isabelle Olivier; and a series of conversations with Debra Kerr, President and CEO of Intuit Art Museum; French-American artist and patron of the arts Tiphanie Babinet; authors and strategists Shawn-Laree and Daniel X; and Document Gallery partner Sibylle Friche—alongside hands-on activities, gallery activations, and dedicated youth programming.
The Statue of Liberty, formally Liberty Enlightening the World—the monumental work by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi—is not only a symbol of the United States but, on a global scale, represents freedom and emancipation from oppression for people around the world.
Lady Liberty, as she is also known, was a gift from the French people as a token of Franco-American friendship to celebrate the centennial of the United States’ independence. This year, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, this symbolic work serves as the common thread of Night of Ideas, organized by Villa Albertine in partnership with Intuit Art Museum.
In commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, Night of Ideas will emphasize the theme of freedom. The choice to celebrate within a museum dedicated to outsider art is deliberate: participants will engage in reflection on freedom and contemporary experimentation through art and artists.
This edition of Night of Ideas will begin in daylight—allowing, for the first time, young audiences and families to enjoy a rich and eclectic program—and conclude at night. From artistic workshops to performances and talks to the closing concert, the concept of freedom, set against the canvas of self-taught art, will engage our senses, spark conversations, and rejuvenate our thinking.
Within the intimate and distinctive setting of Intuit Art Museum, we will come together to invigorate our shared love of freedom through personal and collective experience.
This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required for talks and Slow Look sessions, which open on 02/19.
The event is co-curated and funded by Villa Albertine and Intuit Art Museum.