Conversation Lab
An in-person text-based gathering of artists
Conversation Lab was born in 2023 out of a need for in-person connection, communion, and discourse in reaction to the isolation of the pandemic and the disembodiment of the internet. In exploring programming ideas, we interviewed local artists about what was needed in the Hudson Valley – the word on everyone’s lips was “conversation.” We are interested in the various artistic, personal, pedagogical, legal, and civic performances of conversation and how the vibrational space between is a seed for belief, movement, delineation, compromise, and invention. From these initial interviews and conversations, we co-developed a program for artists and academics who utilize textual research in their practice. Each year, Glasshouse chooses a theme to unify its programming and guide the cohort of interdisciplinary artists in Conversation Lab. This year explores the idea of A Permit/To Permit, a legal document, and the expansive ideas around what is permitted and who has permission. In the spirit of generosity and expanding the conversation, we will be archiving the titles of the texts read and key aspects of each conversation for an online database accessible to the public.
Who: Hudson Valley artists and academics who utilize textual research in their creative pursuits
What: A six-month immersive monthly conversation fellowship for four interdisciplinary artists/academics with a culminating event at 257 Springtown Rd. After an introductory session to set ground rules and a learning contract, each member is responsible for one 2-hour session, choosing a theme-oriented text, tending a close reading, and holding space for that week’s in-depth conversation. The program culminates in an experimental exhibition/performance/reading/screening at the abandoned house next door.
When: May through October 2025. Fourth Saturdays from 4-6 pm.
Where: Glasshouse, 251 Springtown Rd.
How: Please send an artist statement (no longer than 300 words), statement of interest (no longer than 200 words), resume, and 10 jpg images (1200 dpi longest side) or links of up to 3 video clips (no longer than 3 minutes) if applicable to contact(at)glasshouseproject.org
Apply to Conversation Lab by February 15