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
October 21, Linnea Valdivia
In “Unruly Bodies: Monstrosity, Race and Gender in Pop Culture,” cultural worker Linnea Valdivia examines the figure of the monster or freak as both a liberatory and controlling force within popular culture. Using tools from performance studies and critical race theory, Valdivia will guide audiences through video screenings, group discussion, and an interactive exercise analyzing visual culture through an intersectional lens. Valdivia currently serves as Program Manager for the GALA Pride and Diversity Center.
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.
