ARTS Summit 2026
Arts Forward
Friday, February 27 & 28, 2026 | Texas Wesleyan University
LEARN – EXPERIENCE – CELEBRATE
Arts Forward is a city-wide arts summit bringing together artists, performers, creatives, community advocates, and policymakers for an inspiring day of learning and connection. Be sure to secure your ticket today!
Scroll down to see information on the schedule, location, speakers and more!
COME LEARN, EXPERIENCE, AND CONNECT
Arts Fort Worth believes in making the arts accessible to everyone. Inspired by local and national arts organizations, the tiered ticketing system ensures that anyone who wants to attend can do so:
- Discount Saturday Ticket: $25 for those with limited financial means at the time of purchase.
- Standard Saturday Ticket: $50 helps cover the cost of the event.
- Pay-It-Forward Ticket: $125 allows you to contribute toward discounted tickets, helping others experience the summit.
- Heart of Gold Reception: $100 for Friday evening at 6:00 p.m. at our annual Heart of Gold awards ceremony to recognize leaders in the arts. Enjoy heavy appetizers and drinks before celebrating movers and shakers across the arts scene!
Meet Keynote Speaker Chris Kiley
Chris Kiley is the Executive Director of Texans for the Arts. Chris has been deeply immersed in the arts since childhood. His journey began with high school theater productions, which laid the foundation for a successful career as a performing artist and director. While his early aspirations of becoming a Broadway actor have evolved, his passion and dedication to the arts have remained unwavering.
Transitioning from a theater practitioner to a prominent arts advocate and integration specialist, Chris has made it his mission to produce, promote, and protect the arts. His work focuses on advocating for public investment in the arts and ensuring that every child has access to a rich arts education. Chris is deeply committed to areas he cares about, whether it involves enhancing the arts landscape or using the arts as a primary tool for educating young people.
Outside of his professional life, Chris enjoys spending quality time with his family and their large dog, Gatsby. He also remains dedicated to his personal growth and education. Chris is enthusiastic about meeting new people, so he invites those interested in networking, career opportunities, or learning more about advocacy to connect with him.
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