What is Night of Ideas? Keep reading for details on this nationwide initiative that's free for all to attend.
On April 1, the Wex is partnering for the first time with organizing institution Villa Albertine—the French Institute for Culture and Education, a division of the French Embassy in the US—as well as the Consulate General of France in Chicago on what's described as a "nocturnal arts and culture marathon" dedicated to addressing major global issues through dialogue, music, performance, and more.
Launched in 2016, Night of Ideas centers a different universal theme each year. Previous iterations have focused on societal issues such as the future of global democracy, sustainability in a world of overproduction and overconsumption, and designing and coexisting in cities. For 2025, in a moment of ever-growing divisions in society, the initiative seeks to establish "common ground." Columbus is one of two dozen cities hosting Night of Ideas events to foster conversation and community.
At the Wex, the partnership on this event has expanded to include representatives from Ohio State’s Global Arts + Humanities, the French Center of Excellence, and the Department of French and Italian in the evening's lineup. We're also happy to benefit from the support of Flux Flow Dance Center for the performance element, and of La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro for bringing a literal taste of France to the evening.
Night of Ideas will offer insight from artists, students, educators and researchers. Each will share personal experiences and reflections on issues that can too often create or increase divides, from language barriers to the attention economy. And built into the program is space for audience members to join in the exchange.
Check out the event page for more info on the participants. And don't forget to register in advance if you plan to attend. We hope you'll bring your ideas to the conversation.