Keynotes 

Jason Blair 

Jason Blair is a visionary in the realm of arts education, with over 20 years of experience dedicated to unlocking the boundless creativity of young minds. He firmly believes that the creativity of our children holds the transformative power to shape our world. Every day, Jason immerses himself in the vibrant energy of young creative geniuses who grace his art studio, reinforcing his conviction that we, as educators, hold the key to empowering students to reach their fullest potential.

Jason's unwavering dedication lies in fostering classroom communities where creativity is not only cherished but celebrated. As a creativity specialist, his expertise enables him to cultivate the essential creative dispositions that inspire imaginative ideas and drive innovative practices.

Understanding that creativity is intrinsic to human nature, Jason sees it as a muscle that requires diligent cultivation. He perceives creativity as the art of weaving together disparate ideas through innovative thinking, purposeful questioning, and reflective analysis, resulting in original and impactful concepts.

In our increasingly complex world, teeming with interconnected challenges, the need for creative minds capable of discerning patterns and connections is paramount. We seek individuals who can pose profound questions and catalyze transformative insights. The world calls for minds adept at embracing the delicate balance between individuality and belonging to diverse communities, possessing the creativity to navigate these nuances with grace and insight.

Jason Blair holds a Master of Arts in Art Education from The Ohio State University and currently imparts his wisdom as an elementary art teacher in Dublin, Ohio.

Matt Barton

Matt Barton’s artistic practice includes immersive multi-media installations, sound and video works, kinetic sculpture, absurdist performances, and outdoor projects that merge sculpture, architecture, and landscape design.

He has exhibited at The New Museum of Contemporary Art, NY; Museum of Contemporary Art, Denver; Carnegie Museum, Pittsburgh, PA; Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh, PA; Reykjavik International Film Festival, Iceland; Art museum of Nanjing, China; Center for Contemporary Art, Santa Fe; and CU – Boulder Art Museum, CO.

Matt has been an artist-in-residence at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh and his work has been featured in Art News, Colorado Public Radio, The New York Times, Temporary Art Review, The Pittsburgh Tribune, and The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.