Lecture on the Lawn Series

Lecture on the Lawn is a free Sunday series running June through October at 2:00 PM. Each program brings artists, performers, and thought leaders to the Guild’s scenic grounds to share their work and ideas. From engaging talks to live performances, these gatherings offer a chance to connect, reflect, and enjoy art in community.


This series is made possible through generous support from the Rochester Area Community Foundation, Yates County Tourism Advisory Committee, New York State Council on the Arts, and Mid-Atlantic Arts.

2025 Lecture Series Schedule

All events are free to attend, but due to limited seating, we encourage advance registration for Shake on the Lake and Without Arrows to help us plan for attendance. Click on the event to your right to learn more.

  • Dr. Bruce Gilman (FLCC Professor Emeritus, Curator of the Finger Lakes Herbarium) unpacks the deep natural history of our region, exploring the glacial forces that carved the landscape, formed the lakes, and shaped ecosystems.

  • A high-energy, family-friendly outdoor performance of Shakespeare’s The Tempest, featuring puppetry, live music, and surprises! Stay after the show for a Q&A with director Josh Rice. Presented by regional theater company Shake on the Lake.

    Advanced registration is suggested for this event, learn more here.

  • An afternoon of poetry from beloved local voices:

    • Mary Gilliland – Cornell University

    • Steve Lewandowski – Rushville

    • Peter Fortunato – Ithaca College

    • Albert Abonado – Oswego University

    Bring your blanket and soak up lyrical rhythms on the lawn.

  • Experience classic poetry like you’ve never heard it before. Local duo Curt and Nani Nehring Bliss bring verse to life through song in Dead Metaphor Cabaret, an intimate performance blending guitar, vocals, and powerful spoken word. With a repertoire that spans centuries, their arrangements give familiar texts fresh voice—transforming the literary into the lyrical.

    This free event is part of Lecture on the Lawn, our summer-to-fall Sunday series that brings artists, performers, and thought leaders to the scenic grounds of the Rochester Folk Art Guild. Each gathering offers a moment to pause, reflect, and connect through creative expression in community.

    The performance lasts approximately one hour, with time for conversation to follow. Folding chairs and benches are provided, but guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs or blankets for added comfort. In the event of rain, we’ll gather indoors.

    After the performance, enjoy a visit to the Guild’s East Hill Gallery featuring handcrafted work by Guild artists, or take a guided tour of the campus and studios.

  • Experience a vibrant cultural performance with The Paza Experience, featuring Native American flute, drumming, and traditional dances—with an invitation to join a community Round Dance.
    Then stay for a screening of the acclaimed documentary Without Arrows, followed by a Q&A with Delwin Fiddler Jr. and the film’s creators.
    Advanced registration is suggested for this event, learn more here.

Lectures are held rain or shine, with indoor space available when needed. Each program lasts about one to two hours and includes time for audience questions or conversation. Seating is provided with wooden benches and folding chairs, but you’re welcome to bring your own for extra comfort.

All events are free and open to the public—donations are always appreciated. After the program, guests are invited to browse the East Hill Gallery, featuring handcrafted work made onsite and by local artists, and take a guided tour of the Folk Art Guild campus.