Lectures

Join us online and in person for lectures from artists, experts, and other compelling voices on wide-ranging topics.

Upcoming Courses

Rachel Ruysch: Art, Science, and Society

October 15–November 5, 2025

The Ruth and Carl J. Shapiro Celebrity Lectures

Join us for a series of exciting lectures that brings the greatest names in their fields through our doors. Chosen for their creative brilliance and fresh perspectives, these speakers share their vision, their working process, and their insights.

This year we’re lucky enough to welcome actor, writer, producer, and musician Daveed Diggs; food expert, Emmy-nominated television host, and bestselling author Padma Lakshmi; acclaimed actress, comedian, and writer Jenny Slate; celebrated photographer Sally Mann; and Pulitzer Prize–winning author Percival Everett.

In-person and livestream tickets available.

Buy Your Tickets Today

Upcoming Lectures

The Ruth and Carl J. Shapiro Celebrity Lectures

Padma Lakshmi: Padma’s All American

Friday, November 14, 2025
7:00 pm–8:00 pm
In Person
Lecture

Winslow Homer as Printmaker

Wednesday, November 19, 2025
1:00 pm–2:30 pm
In Person
The Ruth and Carl J. Shapiro Celebrity Lectures

Jenny Slate: Lifeform

Friday, November 21, 2025
7:00 pm–8:00 pm
In Person
Lecture

Homer’s Boston, Framed by Pointed Firs

Wednesday, December 3, 2025
1:00 pm–2:30 pm
In Person
Lecture

Winslow Homer at the Shore

Wednesday, December 10, 2025
1:00 pm–2:30 pm
In Person
Esther Steinberg Memorial Lecture

Billie Tsien: A Rock in the Water

Thursday, January 29, 2026
7:00 pm–8:00 pm
In Person
The Ruth and Carl J. Shapiro Celebrity Lectures

Sally Mann: Art Work

Friday, February 13, 2026
7:00 pm–8:00 pm
In Person
The Ruth and Carl J. Shapiro Celebrity Lectures

Percival Everett: The Art of Contemporary Fiction

Thursday, May 14, 2026
7:00 pm–8:00 pm
In Person