Join the City of San Luis Obispo’s Public Art Program and the SLO County Arts Council for the 2026 Rooted in Art Lecture Series — a yearlong celebration of creativity, culture, and community. Dedicated to the memory of Allen Root, this series invites a wide range of artists, creative practitioners, and art‑engaged community members to share their work, ideas, and perspectives on how art shapes life in San Luis Obispo.
Lectures take place on the third Wednesday of each month and begin with a brief community update from City Public Art staff and the Arts Council, followed by a featured speaker presentation and audience Q&A.
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Third Wednesday of each month
995 Palm St, San Luis Obispo
This moth's lecture
August 19, Timo Beckwith
Multidisciplinary artist Timo Beckwith works across sculpture, painting, digital art, and music, exploring the relationships among time, form, and the natural world. Beckwith describes his creative journey as one flowing through “many waters—some peaceful and serene and others wild and turbulent.” His talk will offer a window into how these currents shape his evolving practice.
The Rooted in Art Lecture Series is dedicated to the memory of Allen Root, who committed his life to art and community. Allen served as SLO County Arts Board President, created multiple public art sculptures, played a key role in creating the Percent for Art Ordinance, and assisted the City with many Public Art maintenance projects. SLO County Arts and the City of SLO hope that this program can serve as a testament to his powerful legacy as a community centerpiece, storyteller and artist.
