Arts Matter
February 13, 2026
Temple Performing Arts Center
Join us for the 2026 Arts and Quality of Life Conference, a day of conversation, creativity and connection—where the arts take center stage in shaping lives and strengthening communities. This year’s theme, Arts Matter, draws from the sociological concept of “mattering,” exploring how people and communities flourish when they feel seen, heard and valued. Through this lens, we’ll celebrate the arts to affirm identity, foster belonging and elevate health and well-being.
Timed with the 250th anniversary of the United States and a season of cultural momentum in Philadelphia—including the World Cup, the MLB All-Star Game and other citywide celebrations—our conference reflects on the historic and ongoing role of the arts in building community. We’ll spotlight Philadelphia’s rich legacy of arts and consider how artistic expression has long been a vehicle for equity, resilience, and social change.
Rooted in meaningful themes, yet unbound by traditional academic formats, this conference brings together artists, practitioners, scholars, students, and community members for interdisciplinary sessions, explanatory performances, panels, and immersive experiences. Arts Matter invites us to consider how the arts continue to matter, through music, dance, theater, film, and visual arts.
Save the date and join us in celebrating the arts and its ability to foster connection, promote health, and amplify our collective voice. The event kicks off on Thursday, February 12 with a networking reception at Temple's Rite of Swing Jazz Café followed by a free performance by the Temple University Symphony Orchestra.