ARTS Summit 2026

ARTSforward Schedule

ARTSforward 2026 Schedule

Doors Open at 8:00 a.m. – Visit our Partner Tables!

Program Begins at 9:00 a.m.

Welcome and Opening Remarks, Master of Ceremonies, Sam Santiago (waiting to confirm Sam)

State of the Arts in Fort Worth, Wesley Gentle, Executive Director and President of Arts Fort Worth

ARTSForward Youth Day, Ruby Macnab

Art in Public Spaces Panel moderated by Mark Thistlethwaite, featuring: Nansii Downer, Margo Gordon, Alida Labbe, Kirsten Maiwald, Heidi Tournoux-Hanshaw

Keynote Address: Arts Advocacy Across Texas moderated by Wesley Gentle, featuring Chris Kiley and Krystal Jones 

Evolution of the Film Industry in Fort Worth, moderated by Tyler Germaine, featuring: Austin Flores, Taylor Hardy, Laura Lovo

Culturalyst 3.0, Sam Bowler

What’s next for Arts Fort Worth, Wesley Gentle, Arts Fort Worth Executive Director and President

The day is also pre-loaded with opportunities to connect within the arts ecosystem and to experience a variety of talent from our local community!

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Chris Kiley

Meet Keynote Speaker Chris Kiley

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