Explore the cultural and environmental challenges facing Australia’s remote region known as Paruku. Learn about the multidisciplinary perspectives brought to bear on the region’s fragile environment by artists, scientists, and its indigenous Aboriginal inhabitants.

Just what was Nevada like as Territory became State? Join historian Ron James for an examination of 1860s Nevada, as he takes us on a historical tour of what it means for us to call ourselves ‘Battle Born.’

Celebrate the opening of The 36th Star with Nevada State Archivist Jeff Kintop, who discusses the significance of historic objects highlighted in the exhibition.

Jeff Kintop

Canadian architect Brian Mackay Lyons has used his award-winning design practice to make a cultural contribution to Nova Scotia where his Acadian and Mi’kmaq ancestors have lived for centuries. The firm has built an international reputation for Design Excellence confirmed by over 100 national and international awards.

An historian of Latin America, join Linda Curcio-Nagy to explore themes of labor in Mexican-American history through film, literature and art.

Reno architect Don Clark is designing the “Man Pavilion” surrounding the iconic figure at the center of the 2014 festival. Learn about its inspiration and design before going to see it installed on the playa.

Cultural anthropologist and international educational consultant Jill Derby discusses the importance of understanding Islamic life and culture in relation to Doris Duke’s Shangri La

Join photographer Stephen Galloway and Director of Contemporary Art Initiatives JoAnne Northrup for a dialogue about Stephen’s work, and ideas about making pictures of the natural world, in Place/No Place.

With a background in the urban design of Islamic cities, Heba Mostafa presents a brief history and meanings of Islamic architecture and urban design in relation to Doris Duke’s Shangri La.