We understand who we are and we imagine who we want to become by telling stories through the interrelated mediums of art, prose, music and spirituality.  The shapes that these narratives take are influenced by the places where they, and we, are rooted.  Influence is a subtle and often implicit force.  It is the stuff beyond mere representation, or the explicit reference to particular geographies (this mountain or that stream).  Influence is ephemeral and as the poet Rilke wrote, it falls on me like moonlight on a window seat.

In September Adirondack-inspired visual artists, scholars and writers will push past mere representation in order to open up a discussion around how the Adirondack cultural, spiritual and/or physical landscape has influenced creative endeavors through time, their own and others.  The Adirondacks: A Place to Dream is a three-day series of lectures, panels, films and programs focused on the cultural heritage of the Adirondacks.  This project will bring historians, philosophers and artists together in a cross-disciplinary project designed to foster an ongoing dialogue about how a sense of place inspires creativity.

Throughout this program participants and presenters, neighbors and wayfarers will have an opportunity to become involved in the question of influence.  Specifically we will consider how the Adirondacks, beautiful and sublime in turn, has inspired artists and writers through time.

Details and additional information will be forthcoming; all are welcome and encouraged to join the conversation.

Contributing authors and program co-chairs Robert E. Bullock, President NYS Archives Partnership Trust and Gary D. Smith, Northwoods Inn, Lake Placid