On May 25 and 26, 2026, the Lisbon Consortium continued the "Arts and Diplomacy" seminar, a high-profile initiative led by Randi Charno Levine, former US Ambassador to Portugal and Honorary Professor at Católica. At the opening session, the Rector, Professor Isabel Capeloa Gil, underlined the pivotal importance of these initiatives in establishing the university as a dynamic hub for global debate and in promoting the creative industries.
Over the course of two days, the Católica campus and the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation becames stage for dialogue and reflection, where the Lisbon Consortium and the University welcomed internationally renowned museum directors and acclaimed artists. The panels addressed crucial themes such as ethical dilemmas in institutional governance, the role of museums as community spaces for reflection, and the impact of curatorial discourse on the construction of historical narratives. The debate featured the participation of distinguished figures such as Adam Weinberg (Director Emeritus of the Whitney Museum of American Art), Philippe Vergne (Director of Serralves), Xavier F. Salomon (Director of the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian), curator Rujeko Hockley, and artists Hank Willis Thomas, Alfredo Jaar, and Aliza Nisenbaum.
The realization of events of this magnitude and access to global-scale specialists demonstrate the real impact of Católica’s investment in culture and knowledge. It is through continuous support for its academic community, and strategic partnerships that bring art and diplomacy closer together, that Católica continues to train leaders capable of navigating and shaping the contemporary cultural landscape.
Innovative projects like this are only possible thanks to the shared vision and generosity of those who believe in our University's mission. Find out how you can support the development of these and other high-impact initiatives at Católica through our Give to Católica platform.
