FALL 2024
I have reflected a lot in recent months about the impact of the arts on my journey, professionally and personally; and how much it has nurtured my ardor, curiosity, adaptability, and joy. Whether generating art myself, attending shows, promoting creators of all kinds, or curating programs for BabsonARTS, creativity is inherent to my identity and arts a constant in my life. Each experience has been different with no certainty of success or fulfillment. But even when it isn’t successful, there has still been value and meaning. I have learned there isn’t only one solution or way forward, that even when you try to replicate an event, you still can’t be sure of the result, and sometimes going back to something previously unsuccessful is a viable option. Arts, entertainment and creativity provide boundless ways to communicate, express, and experiment. BabsonARTS focuses on these possibilities, leaving the meaning to the beholder. Our aim is to offer programming that is relevant and appropriate to this community during this moment in time. This semester we have recurring series as well as unique one-time events and I hope that whatever role the arts have played for you thus far that this season offers something that feeds your journey.
—Leslie Chiu, Director
Photos: (left) Leslie Chiu and Taylor Lunt ’24; (right) Leslie Chiu.
Photos by Nile Hawver and Nic Czarnecki.
Heart to Heart? A Curious Human-Machine Dialogue
ARTIST TALK AND RECEPTION
Tuesday, September 10, 5:00 P.M.
FREE and open to the public. Registration encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
EXHIBIT ON VIEW SEPTEMBER 10–October 18, M-F 9:00 A.M.–5:00 P.M.
ARTIST-LED TOUR OF EXHIBIT September 18, 3:00 P.M.
Hollister Gallery
Machines can generate content such as text, sound, imagery, and video that are human-like. But how deeply can machines “perceive” content? When shown an image, is the depth of machine’s perception comparable to how some humans may feel about an image? Can a machine’s interpretation of an image be as elegant, poignant, emotional, witty, or thought-provoking as when shown to a human?
In this exhibition, Davit Khachatryan invites the viewers to answer those questions for themselves by reflecting over a collection of images that he co-created with the help of generative AI. The images displayed in this collection represent visual artistic renderings of literature – such as poems and quotes – that are inspirational to the artist. It is hoped that viewers will find this offbeat human-machine interaction beneficial and walk out with a renewed appreciation of what it means to be human in the age of AI.
Davit Khachatryan is an Associate Professor in the Mathematics, Analytics, Science and Technology Division at Babson College who teaches data science, machine learning, and statistics in both the undergraduate and graduate programs. He is enthusiastic about the potential of AI in original research, innovative pedagogy, and creative self-expression.
Connect with the artist.
MASARY in Residence
Monday, September 23 – Sunday, September 29
MASARY Studios is a collective of transdisciplinary artists who create site-specific artworks in the public realm that deploys new media materials to compose compelling, unexpected stories. Their practice is often based in light, sound and the development and implementation of new technologies at architectural scale. Founded in 2015, the studio is artist-owned and managed. MASARY has produced monumental sound and light performances and installations including turning the Green Monster at Fenway Park into a nineperson three-story percussion instrument. Using untraditional means, they have transformed Boston’s Hatch Shell, the Boston Opera House, the Old South Meeting House and other iconic locations. Their works are included in multiple permanent collections and have toured broadly including showings in Mexico City, SXSW, and from New York to San Francisco. The Studio continues to innovate and develop novel methods of media production in their practice incorporating spatial audio, artificial intelligence, data-driven light sculptures and beyond.
Artist website: www.masarystudios.com Social Media: @masary_studios
Made possible with the support of the Office of Belonging and Inclusion, the Sorenson Visiting Artists Fund, and the Stearns Memorial Film Society Fund.
This is an Audio Memory
At the center of this week-long residency is a new method of media performance and installation. The Glavin Family Chapel will be transformed into The Chapel Lab: a participatory media performance lab inviting the Babson community to learn and contribute sound to the headline performance by MASARY on Wednesday evening of the residency. The sound and visual work produced through this experimental audio analysis process will generate a durational “audio memory” which will be displayed at architectural scale on the exterior walls of the Glavin Chapel from Thursday through Sunday evening.
The Chapel Lab (times subject to change)
Monday, September 23, 4:00 P.M.–5:30 P.M.; 8:00 P.M.–9:00 P.M.
Tuesday, September 24, 4:00 P.M.–6:00 P.M.
Wednesday, September 25, 10:00 A.M.–1:00 P.M.
Glavin Family Chapel
FREE. BOW Students, Faculty and Staff Only
Students, staff and faculty from Babson, Olin and Wellesley are invited to join the artists in the creative process, exploring how sound might produce visual languages directly. This lab environment welcomes speakers, musicians, poets and more to experience a real time audio-analysis to video system. This custom hardware/software system is designed to analyze audio on many levels (spectral, musical, etc.) at extremely lowlatency and deliver this real-time data to digital video animation software. Thus, speakers, musicians, and others can produce sound and see it incorporated into large-scale projected video environments almost instantly. Those interested in further engagement are welcome to return to The Chapel Lab to join the performance in real-time on Wednesday evening.
Photo: Misha Barshteyn
Live Performance and Installation Debut
Wednesday, September 25, 7:00 P.M.–9:00 P.M
Glavin Family Chapel FREE and open to the public.
Building on residency-prepared audio and visual languages, the live performance will be led by MASARY and feature guests from the BOW community and Babson archival audio recordings. Atmospheric soundscapes blend towards contemporary electro-acoustic production as an invitation to jam in this novel audio-visual landscape. Real time video projections in the chapel on specialty screens will immerse attendees in a hybrid media environment. This durational performance installation will remain open, loose and inviting throughout the evening. There is no prescribed formal start or end, chaptering or shape - rather all will be discovered together, in real time.
Visual Installation on View
Wednesday, September 25 to 7:00 P.M. –10:30 P.M.
Thursday, September 26 – Sunday, September 29, 7:00 P.M.–11:00 P.M.
Glavin Family Chapel FREE and open to the public.
The audio driven video elements produced through The Chapel Lab sessions and live performance will be captured and livestreamed at architectural scale nightly on the Glavin Family Chapel façade, without sound, proposing an audio memory of this unique collaboration for the community to consider.
Global Film: Perfect Days
Directed by Wim Wenders
Tuesday, October 22, 7:00 P.M.
Rated PG. Run time 123 minutes.
Carling-Sorenson Theater
FREE and open to the public. Registration encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
The wonders of everyday life come into breath- taking focus in this profoundly moving film by Wim Wenders. In a radiant, Cannes-awardwinning performance of few words but extraordinary expressiveness, Koji Yakusho plays a public-toilet cleaner in Tokyo whose rich inner world is gradually revealed through his small exchanges with those around him and with the city itself. Channeling his idol Yasujiro Ozu, Wenders crafts a serenely minimalist ode to the miracle that is the here and now.
Post-film discussion will be held immediately following the screening.
Co-presented by the Global Film Series and the Arts and Humanities Division.
THE EMPTY SPACE THEATER PRESENTS
A Play by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins
Directed by Beth Wynstra
October 23, 24, 26, 7:00 P.M.
October 25, 2:00 P.M.
Sorenson Black Box
Tickets $5
Embark on a theatrical journey like no other with Branden JacobsJenkins’ Everybody, a riveting modern adaptation of a classic fifteenth-century morality play. Follow the protagonist, Everybody as they traverse life’s ultimate adventure—facing death and seeking the true meaning of living. With humor and profound insight, this play explores themes of love, friendship, and the human condition, making audiences question if anyone is ever fully prepared for their final curtain call. In this groundbreaking play, roles are assigned by lottery each night, creating dozens of possible casting permutations, and ensuring a unique performance every time.
EVERYBODY is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing, LLC, servicing the Dramatists Play Service collection. (www.dramatists.com)
Waterline Reading Series Showcase
Tuesday, October 29, 5:00 P.M. Hollister Gallery
FREE and open to the public. Registration encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
Waterline features a fast-paced hour of literary works from Babson College faculty and staff fiction writers, poets, and essayists. The selection is always intriguing and often includes works in progress not yet in publication. Recently featured authors: Steve Bauer, Jordan Escobar, Wes Miller, Mary O’Donoghue, Mary Pinard, Asiel Sepulveda and David Youtz.
Co-presented with the Arts and Humanities Division.
Photo: Emily Wang
#FierceLatina by Nayda A.Cuevas
ARTIST TALK AND RECEPTION
Thursday, November 7, 5:00 P.M.
FREE and open to the public. Registration encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
EXHIBIT ON VIEW
November 7– January 3, M–F 9:00 A.M.–5:00 P.M.
Hollister Gallery
Our society presents a fixed identity or illusion of Latina women. Positive role models are invisible and unspoken about. This series by socially engaged artist Nayda A. Cuevas showcases a small group of women made visible/popular by social media. From engineers to activists to politicians, these women demonstrate strength in a society that makes visible negative stereotypes that lead to discrimination, injustice, and barriers that exclude Latinx from opportunities.
Nayda’s exploration of her identity produces a visceral exchange of personal and political identity while cultivating an awareness of “otherness.” Her passion emerged from unearthing a visual language to better articulate through visual arts her observation and interpretation of her Latina American experience. Her artwork represents a continuous search to make connections with the people around her and in the place she lives.
Artist website: www.naydacuevasart.com
Babson Music Collective Concert
Saturday, November 16, 2:00 P.M.
Carling-Sorenson Theater
FREE and open to the public.
Registration encouraged. Walk-ins welcome.
The Babson Music Collective is rooted in the jazz traditions of improvisation and creative expression. The group finds inspiration in a range of musical styles, from pop and afro-beat to classic jazz standards. Drawing on each member’s personal playing style and experiences, the Collective creates unique arrangements for all the music it plays. The Babson Music Collective performs at several concerts and events throughout the year, with the goal of fostering a community of Babson’s many student musicians and listeners.
Photo by Kyle Soule
LIVE AT THE BLACK BOX
Thursday, September 19, 7:00 P.M.
Thursday, October 17, 7:00 P.M.
Sorenson Black Box
FREE and open to the public.
Registration available. Walk-ins welcome.
Live at the Black Box features Babson student performers, providing an opportunity for them to share their talents. Multiple acts will be showcased at each event in short sets with the sound system and some equipment provided. Refreshments will be served. Stop in for a particular act or stay for the duration of the event. Run time approximately 60-75 minutes.
Students interested in applying to perform during a set should contact the BabsonARTS office at babsonarts@babson.edu for application materials and guidelines. We encourage all performers to apply and hope to showcase not only musicians and bands, but DJs, spoken word, comedy, and more!
Visual Arts Workshops
Come explore your creativity! Workshops are in-person and open to current Babson, Olin, and Wellesley students, faculty, and staff. Materials and instruction are provided; no prior experience needed. Registration is required and will open two weeks prior to each workshop at babsonarts. org. Workshops fill quickly. If sold out, email babsonarts@babson.edu to inquire about a wait list.
Making Art with AI: Presented by BabsonARTS and The Weissman Foundry
Tuesday, September 17, 5:00 P.M.–7:00 P.M.
Weissman Foundry, Workroom
FREE. Registration opens September 3.
Delve into the cutting-edge world where artificial intelligence meets creativity as we learn how to harness the power of AI tools and platforms to generate captivating visuals, produce stunning designs, and push the boundaries of traditional artistry. Whether you’re a seasoned artist intrigued by new mediums or a tech enthusiast eager to explore the creative potential of AI, this workshop offers a hands-on journey into the future of art. Participants are encouraged to bring their own laptop; additional materials and instruction will be provided.
Color Theory and Collage
Thursday, November 14, 5:00 P.M.–7:00 P.M.
2D/3D Studio (Trim 215)
FREE. Registration opens October 31.
Unleash your creativity as we explore the principles of color harmony, contrast, and composition. From understanding the psychology behind colors to learning the art of combining textures and patterns, this workshop will equip you with the tools to create visually stunning collages that captivate and inspire. Whether well-practiced or just beginning your creative journey, join us for an enriching experience where you’ll learn, experiment, and bring your artistic visions to life through the kaleidoscope of color and collage. No prior experience required. Materials and instruction will be provided, but you are welcome to bring items to add to your collage.
Fluid Acrylic Painting on 3D Objects
Thursday, October 3, 5:00 P.M.–7:00 P.M.
2D/3D Studio (Trim 215)
FREE. Registration opens September 19.
Dive into the fascinating world of fluid art as we explore the unique challenge of painting on three-dimensional surfaces. Learn how to manipulate vibrant acrylic paints to create mesmerizing patterns, captivating textures, and stunning color gradients that flow effortlessly across your chosen objects. From vases and sculptures to everyday items transformed into works of art, join us and let your creativity flow beyond the canvas! No prior experience required. Materials and instruction will be provided. This workshop is messy, please dress accordingly.
ARTScapades
The ARTScapades program is an opportunity for current students, staff, and faculty to connect while attending amazing local performances and exhibits. Sponsored and subsidized by BabsonARTS, members of the Babson community can purchase discounted tickets to theatre, museums, music, dance and more in the Greater Boston area (transportation to events is not provided).
Tickets for students are $10 for all events and go on sale two weeks prior to each event.
Faculty/Staff tickets range from $15-20 and go on sale one week prior to each event.
Cash only, limit 2 per person. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Alex Brand in Trim 216 or email abrand@babson.edu.
Improv Asylum
Main Stage
September 19, 8:00 P.M.
216 Hanover Street, Boston
The Nutcracker
Boston Ballet
December 4, 7:30 P.M.
Citizens Bank Opera House, Boston
Photos: Improv Asylum, courtesy of Improv Asylum. The Nutcracker, photo by Liza Voll, courtesy of Boston Ballet.
Student Arts Clubs
There is no shortage of talented and passionate student artists at Babson. These are the studentled groups that work most often with BabsonARTS as they perform and create on campus, but there are new groups and more creator events than we can list. Students wishing to learn about all the student clubs and organizations on campus should visit belong.babson.edu
AMAN
AMAN exists to increase awareness surrounding the countries comprising South Asia through unification of the diverse people, culture, and languages.
Performance: November 14, 8:00 P.M.
@amanbabson
@amanbabson
The Rocket Pitches. Photo by Nile Hawver.
Babson Asian Pacific Student Association
BAPSA is an Asian cultural student organization for undergraduates. All students are welcome to find a tightknit community, connect based on Asian heritage, or to simply learn more about various Asian cultures. East Meets West
Performance: November 8, 8:00 P.M.
@BabsonAsianPacificStudentAssociation
@babsonbapsa
Babson Creative Community
The Babson Creative Community seeks to connect students who are passionate about content creation, especially for social media platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Members create their own content, receive, and offer feedback, analyze successful strategies, and grow together!
Find more information on belong.babson.
Babson Dance Ensemble
BDE is the largest student-run organization on campus and produces show-stopping performances each semester that showcase the talented dancers and choreographers of Babson. Performances: November 22 and 23, 8:00 P.M.
@babsondance
@babsondanceensemble
The Babson Players
The Babson Players produce, perform, promote, and create a space for unity in the living arts for members of the Babson community and surrounding public primarily through the production of professional, highquality theater including plays, musicals, and other theatrical projects. Performances: October 31, November 1 and 2, 7:00 P.M.
@BabsonPlayers
@babsonPlayers
Babson Rocket Pitches
The Babson Rocket Pitches a cappella group is a co-ed group of undergraduate students who share a passion for vocal music and performance. Performance: November 24, 6:00 P.M.
@babsonrocketpitches
@rocketpitches
Babson Sound
Babson Sound provides community members media and live entertainment via talk shows, podcasts, music streams, open mics, and concerts. They provide a platform and support for students to create content and events. Find events throughout the semester on belong.babson.
@babson.sound
CREATE
CREATE aspires to enrich the Babson community by encouraging all Babson students to create. The group is a collective of students who enjoy making things together and regularly host events embracing all forms of artistic mediums and expressions.
@createinthestudio
@createinthestudio
Students Against Gravity
SAG specializes in short form improv games and have weekly practices open to all levels of experience in addition to monthly shows, providing laughter and entertainment to all students whether they participate or observe. Performances the first Friday of each month, time and location available on belong.babson.
@SAGBabson
@sagbabson
Threads and Friends
Threads and Friends aims to create a vibrant and inclusive community for individuals who share a passion for fiber arts. The club’s goal is to foster creativity, skill-sharing, and meaningful connections among members who appreciate the artistry and joy that come from working with threads, fabrics, and related materials. Everyone at every level is welcome, whether a beginner or an expert.
@threads.and.friends
The Babson Campus
BabsonARTS events take place on the picturesque campus of Babson College located in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Babson is a recognized leader in entrepreneurial education whose purpose is to empower learners anywhere to create lasting economic and social value for themselves, their communities, and the world.
The Sorenson Center for the Arts is located at 19 Babson College Drive. Free parking is available in the Trim Parking Lot, a short walk from the theater.
Support for BabsonARTS programs is made possible through the ongoing generosity of Richard W. Sorenson M ’68, P ’97, ’00, and Sandra L. Sorenson P ’98, ’00, and donations from alumni and patrons.
#8 Event Parking
#26 Sorenson Center for the Arts Carling-Sorenson Theater
#9 Hollister Hall Gallery Space
#27 Glavin Family Chapel
#7 Trim Grille Room
#7 Sorenson Center for the Arts Administrative Office at Trim
#7 Sorenson Family Visual Arts Center - at Trim
Reynolds’ Lawn
Cover: Untitled, Davit Khachatryan