Grand Central Atelier presents the first of The Bruce Cole Lectures, a new series of public lectures that invites leading scholars, artists, curators, and cultural voices to spark new conversations around traditional art, connoisseurship, and the vital role of the classical tradition in modern life. On October 6th, a panel of friends and colleagues of Bruce Cole (1938–2018) will reflect on his life and impact on the arts and humanities. Chairman Michael McDonald of the National Endowment for the Humanities will give opening remarks, followed by reflections from Dr. Wilfred McClay, Professor of History at Hillsdale College, and Dr. Michelle Erhardt, Professor of Art History and Associate Dean of the School of the Arts at Christopher Newport University. The program concludes with a conversation moderated by Grand Central Atelier Founder Jacob Collins, a leading figure in the contemporary revival of classical realism.

This series honors Bruce Cole, distinguished Renaissance art historian, author, and the longest-serving NEH Chairman from 2001–2009. A recipient of the Presidential Citizens Medal, Dr. Cole championed the humanities as essential to civic life, launching national initiatives like We the People and Picturing America. This series is presented as part of the Bruce Cole Humanities Initiative, which is made possible by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.