
We provide provocative conversations between artists, scientists, and the public. Open access to ideas at the cutting-edge of innovation and discovery. Sparking collaborations, synergy and the development of future projects with the creative, academic, and business communities.
Our public programs are free to attend in greater Boston and beyond. All are welcome.
FALL 2025 EVENTS
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September 3, 2025
Catalyst Conversations and the Boston Public Art Triennial present:
FEATURED SPEAKERS:
Artist-Scholar Adela Goldbard
Michael LaScaleia, PhD, Evolutionary Biologist
Charles Davis, Professor of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology and Curator of Vascular Plants, Harvard University Herbaria
5:30 Doors / Check-in begins
6:00 Explore the Triennial artwork Invadieron por mar, respondemos con fuego. Un presagio on City Hall Plaza.
Please look for Triennial Public Art Ambassadors in citron green shirts to guide you to the City Hall entrance on the Congress Street level (not from the plaza). Attendees will have to pass through City Hall security.
6:30 -7:45 pm Presentations and Q & A
Boston City Hall Mezzanine Gallery
1 City Hall Square, Room 802 (Third Floor) Boston, MA 02201
7:45-9:00 pm Reception with Speakers with Refreshments
(Cash bar) Democracy Brewery Beer Garden, City Hall Plaza
November 2025
Catalyst Conversations presents:
Radical Softness
Artist Janet Echelman
Additional speakers TBA
6:00 pm Check-in
6:30 -7:30 pm Presentations and Q & A
7:30-9:00 pm Reception
Location TBD
Founded in 2012, Catalyst Conversations creates programs that pair artists and scientists for intimate conversations. These conversations have explored topics at the forefront of science and art-making today such as theoretical mathematics, watershed conservation, public art, STEAM education, neuroscience and more. In a region full of innovation and knowledge, Catalyst Conversations offers a unique opportunity for participants of all ages and educational backgrounds to access new knowledge. Ideas are not only presented to the public, they are held open for extended conversation allowing a unique entry to intellectual inquiry.
In 2025, its inaugural year, The Boston Public Art Triennial is a city-wide celebration of public art exploring themes of indigeneity, climate, health, and shared humanity. Spanning neighborhoods across the city—including East Boston, Charlestown, Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan, Downtown, Back Bay, Fenway, and Cambridge—Triennial 2025 offers free, open-to-all programming throughout its six-month run.
The Triennial opens public spaces for dialogue through the lens of public art. With hundreds of events—from interdisciplinary conversations to multi-generational programs—there are opportunities for audiences of all ages to experience and engage with these transformative public art commissions, all free of charge.
Help us bring our programs at the intersection of the arts and sciences to audiences in Greater Boston and beyond! We rely on the generosity of our community to produce our exciting and illuminating events. Thank you for your support.