Night of Ideas McAllen, held on Saturday, March 2, 2024, will begin at 3:00pm at the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), and continue from 5:00pm to 9:00pm at the McAllen Public Library. The event will tackle the theme of “Borderlands,” aiming to reveal the complexities and strengths of border communities. What stories lie beneath the surface of the border? How do individuals navigate the intersections of culture, language, and heritage? In what ways can arts and sports encourage community bonding? The borderlands are home to many narratives that will be explored through the night.
With a lineup featuring experts and artists from border towns, the Latin-American diaspora, and France, our event will host a variety of talks, art exhibits, and performances (poetry readings, dance, music, virtual reality, drawing), bringing together diverse voices, perspectives, and disciplines.
The McAllen community will be able to engage in discussions about dual identities, the loss and reappropriation of the Mexican culture, and the cultural impact of iconic figures like Selena or basketball star Jesus “Chuy” Guerra. The audience will also have the opportunity to take a scientific journey through geology and space as well as explore issues around urban development, and literature at the border.
This event is free and open to the public. Click on “Schedule” in the top right hand corner for full program, or download the program here.
Co-presented by Villa Albertine in Houston, Instituto Francés de América Latina, the McAllen Public Library, the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS), the Office for Science and Technology of the Embassy of France in the United States (Houston), the Consulate General of France in Houston and the Consulate General of France in Monterrey.
In partnership with the City of McAllen and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV).