Leonardo’s vision of a world in which nature and human experience are closely aligned provides both inspiration and a challenge to modern society. Join leading scholars and innovators as they debate the value of Leonardo’s vision for a humanistic society and explore how it impacts our world today.
Moderated by Leonard Garfield. Panelists Include:
- Lorraine McConaghy
- Ana Pinto da Silva
- Mike Lombardi
- Sean MacLeod
Space is limited so register soon! Detailed information on how to participate will be provided via email following your registration. Real-time, automated captioning is available during the program. For additional support, contact programs@mohai.org.
As a catalyst for relevant community conversation, MOHAI’s public programs include a diverse range of speakers and perspectives related to life in our region, past and present. In presenting this program MOHAI does not endorse or advocate any specific policies represented by the speakers, their organizations, or the co-presenters.
Event Summary
This event focused on the intersection of innovation, history, and community in light of the exhibit “da Vinci Inventions.” The conversation explored the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci, alongside the modern challenges and opportunities facing innovation today. Panelists included Ana Pinto da Silva, Dr. Lorraine McConaghy, Michael Lombardi, and Sean MacLeod, who discussed various drivers of innovation, the importance of diversity in perspectives, and the potential of civic engagement.
Key themes emerged throughout the discussion. Lorraine McConaghy emphasized the importance of creating arenas where respectful disagreement could lead to constructive dialogue, suggesting, “the goal of disagreement is discussion and decision.” This highlights the need for civic spaces that encourage openness and collaboration, particularly in light of today’s polarized environment.
Sean MacLeod noted the significance of energy within groups, stating, “finding that balance between technology and our natural world around us” is crucial. This statement reflects the panel’s broader concern about how individuals can harmonize their personal energy with collaborative innovation efforts.
Ana Pinto da Silva further developed the conversation around community and care, asserting that “dreams matter” and advocating for a reimagined urban environment centered on inclusivity. She linked the etymology of “hearth” to “heart,” suggesting that creating caring cities is critical to fostering future innovations.
The discussion concluded with a collective optimism about the potentials of addressing climate change and health crises, emphasizing the imperative of kindness and civility in community engagement. As societies emerge from the pandemic, these interactions become integral to reinvigorating civic discourse and collaborative innovation, representing a broader move towards a more inclusive ideal city shaped by multiple voices and perspectives. This dialogue underscores the relevance of historical insights into contemporary challenges, encouraging ongoing reflection and action in pursuit of communal well-being and innovation.
