That’s a wrap on Duke Arts Opening Week! With more than 3,500 people joining us across events, Duke Arts kicked off the 2025–26 academic year with a celebration that spanned disciplines, venues, and audiences. From comedy and concerts to installations and a student-only party, Opening Week reflected our mission to engage both the Duke campus and the Durham community in the power of the arts.
As we look ahead to the season, Opening Week underscored the multidisciplinary approach that makes Duke Arts unique. Thank you to everyone who joined us. We can’t wait to see you throughout the season!
The Merx Tree was completed on Monday, September 1, after a week-long collaboration between artist Miler Lagos, Andrés Valles, Otoniel Borda, Raj Bunnag, and campus and community partners.
The Merx Tree is on view now through November 25 in the Rubenstein Arts Center Gallery.
Duke students interacting with Avital Meshi: Meet GPT-ME. Watch a clip of the interaction on YouTube here.
Shana Tucker performing at American Tobacco Campus as part of the free outdoor concert series Duke Arts at American Tobacco: Celebrating 50 Years of Hayti Heritage Center throughout September.
Duke Student Constellations class with Atsuko Okatsuka.
Givat Haviva visiting artists.
Givat Haviva Residency Showcase opening.
Duke students at the Open House pARTy at the Nasher Museum.
Duke students with Rachel Barton Pine for a masterclass.
Sudan Archives performing in Page Auditorium.
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