The Art of Being Human
We explore the ideas and art that define cultures, and we search for the essence of the human condition across borders and throughout history.
From philosophers like Aristotle and Plato to writers such as Shakespeare and Steinbeck, and geniuses like Beethoven, Leonardo, and Michelangelo, we engage our teaching and research with the human events that shape the world. And our students learn lessons about themselves and about what it means to be human that accompany and enrich their lives beyond NAU.
Center Stage
We are the hub for cultural engagement in Flagstaff. We bring the artists, thinkers, entertainers, and performers to the stage for events that inspire and enlighten. Find an upcoming event that interests you and join us in exploring these human connections.
Academic programs
News
Weird Twilight: The Serlachius Drawings
October 7th to December 20th. Riles Gallery, 2nd floor. Free. Opening Reception on Oct 16 from 3-5 p.m. A collection of works on paper created at the Serlachius Residency in Mänttä, Finland. Employing a visual text-based narrative this collection of works on paper is an exploration of the joys, melancholy, and anxiety of family and fatherhood at this moment in time. As an artist I place high importance on attending artist residences at this point in…
Martin-Springer Institute Fall 2019 Events
2019-2020 Horizons Concert Series
Fall Performances The NAU School of Music opens the 2019-2020 Horizons Concert Series with four fall performances highlighting the breadth and freshness of musical collaboration, whether among artists or between artistic styles. In addition, several of this year’s programs explore compositions inspired by nature and the music of women composers. Monday, October 14, 2019, 7:30 p.m., Ardrey Memorial Auditorium “Crystal Clear Choral” Saxon State Youth Choir with NAU Shrine of the Ages Choir “The young singers…
NAU Art Museum presents Rough and Tumble: Sculptures by Eric Conrad
The general confusion caused by life and thwarted desires takes shape in new sculptures at the NAU Art Museum, on display from September 10 through November 23. Rough and Tumble: Sculptures by Eric Conrad features large faceless, sculptures of vaguely humanoid or zoomorphic appearance, caught up in awkward physical interactions. Other, smaller pieces are made from cast-off materials such as used clothing, cheap souvenirs and old team mascots. The inherently democratic nature of his materials underscores the universality…
Fall 2019 Latin American Film Series
Fall 2019 Latin American Film Series Thursdays 7 pm at the Liberal Arts Room 120. Free Admission. This is the second annual installation of a film series that features some of the best and most exciting examples of both recent and classic Latin American filmmaking. Here are short descriptions of each film: September 19: 7 pm The Trial (Maria Ramos, Brazil, 2018) The Trial is a fascinating documentary that follows the recent impeachment of former Brazilian president…
Theatre Reimagined at NAU 2019-2020 Season Retells Classic Stories
The Department of Theatre at Northern Arizona University is telling familiar stories with a new spin for its 2019-2020 season. The season’s theme, Retold, Relived and Reimagined, is brought to stage with four main productions. “Each playwright in our new season is telling a familiar tale in a reimagined way,” says Theatre Chair Kathleen M. McGeever, who is reinventing student engagement, too. “We wish to give our students a touring experience, so after the opening on campus…
NAU Film Series Returns for Fall Semester August 27
NAU’s College of Arts and Letters Film Series, co-sponsored by the Cline Library and the School of Communication, promotes understanding and appreciation of cinema through Northern Arizona University and the greater Flagstaff community. Before each film, a local film expert offers a short introduction to set the film in its historical, artistic, and cultural context. Each film is followed by a discussion. The CAL film series blends well-known audience favorites along with lesser-known films, as well…
NAU students sing in Bulgaria opera performance
NAU School of Music students performed at the 20th Varna International Music Academy in Varna, Bulgaria this summer. Photos from left to right, Anne Anderson and Ye Lynn Han. Anne Anderson, a junior Choral Education major, performed in the chorus and as the Novice in Giacomo Puccini’s Suor Angelica, and assisted backstage with anything from stage managing to helping with makeup and wardrobe. Ye Lynn Han, a senior Vocal Performance major, performed the role of Ferrando in W.A. Mozart’s Così fan…