Future of US
Looking forward, Future of US is designed to engage with the possibilities that the future holds for American culture, embodying the aspiration to elevate our collective vision. This programming segment anticipates the evolution of artistic expression and cultural conversations in America, including how we invite and uplift the next generation of artist and cultural leaders.
Programs to include
America the Fearless
In the summer of 2026, the Center will embrace America the Fearless, a festival that not only promises a grand celebration of arts and culture but also a profound inquiry into the essence of American identity.
At its core, America the Fearless embraces that our cultural narrative is no longer a monolith but a mosaic that forms a whole greater than the sum of its parts. By highlighting the unique contributions of various communities and artistic expressions, the festival underscores the idea that American culture is a living, breathing entity, constantly evolving and being reshaped by its people. As attendees navigate the myriad events, installations, and food traditions, they embark on a journey through the vibrant landscapes of American culture, discovering its richness, confronting its contradictions, and imagining its future. This festival is not just an event; it’s a bold assertion that America’s strength lies in its fearless exploration of identity, belonging, and community.
Kennedy Center Arts Hackathon
Designed to harness the early career potential of artists and technologists as culture changemakers, the Arts Hackathon is a two-day event preceded by preparatory online workshops. The gathering will foster interdisciplinary collaboration, drive innovation, and empower future leaders at the intersection of art, technology, and impact. Participants will engage in team formation, ideation, and development of projects that reflect current and emerging trends in art and tech, with the support of mentors from artists, entrepreneurs, and technologists. The Arts Hackathon concludes with final presentations, judging, awards, and a closing gala, offering incubation opportunities and an annual showcase to winners, thereby establishing a blueprint for similar activities that can be replicated by other organization across the nation.
Collaboratively conceived with MIT Hacking Arts co-founders Catherine Halaby and Kathleen Stetson.
Kennedy Center Arts Hackathon
Designed to harness the early career potential of artists and technologists as culture changemakers, the Arts Hackathon is a two-day event preceded by preparatory online workshops. The gathering will foster interdisciplinary collaboration, drive innovation, and empower future leaders at the intersection of art, technology, and impact. Participants will engage in team formation, ideation, and development of projects that reflect current and emerging trends in art and tech, with the support of mentors from artists, entrepreneurs, and technologists. The Arts Hackathon concludes with final presentations, judging, awards, and a closing gala, offering incubation opportunities and an annual showcase to winners, thereby establishing a blueprint for similar activities that can be replicated by other organization across the nation.
Collaboratively conceived with MIT Hacking Arts co-founders Catherine Halaby and Kathleen Stetson.
More programs to be announced in 2025.
