When classes begin and leaves start to crunch underfoot, it’s a sign that outdoor activities will soon take a backseat to indoor ones. And, that the college autumn lecture circuit isn’t far behind. As campus resources go, this is a good one. Many – if not all – art schools across the country use the autumn months to focus students, and engage the broader community with arts and lectures programming. The added benefit for parents is the lectures offer a glimpse into life after college, and the opportunity to hear from those who live as working artists.

Learning from those who’ve gone before you is never a bad idea. I’d suggest checking out what’s in your neck of the woods – at art schools, liberal arts colleges, and research institutions alike. You’ll get a different perspective from each.  And, it could very well prove inspirational.

Here are just some of the myriad programs I’ve come across. Some break them out by department, others group everyone together. Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free and open to the public, although some recommend reservations. Check online.

California College of the Arts, San Francisco

Corcoran Gallery of Art and College of Art + Design, Washington D.C.

Moore College of Art & Design, Philadelphia

Pratt Institute, Brooklyn

Purchase College, SUNY, Purchase 

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, Department of Art, College of Design

University of Texas at Austin

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