Get ready to be moved, inspired, and transformed. The Ringling’s second annual Wonder Symposium is back—and it’s bigger, bolder, and more soul-stirring than ever.
This year’s theme, “Wonder: Art + Healing,” explores the electric space where creativity meets wellbeing. Across three immersive days, the symposium will ignite conversations, spark curiosity, and showcase how art is more than expression—it’s medicine for the soul.
From powerful keynote speakers to hands-on experiences, live performances, and a carnival of creativity, this event invites you to rediscover the magic of being present, the joy of imagination, and the power of wonder to heal hearts and minds.
Following the acclaimed 2024 debut, the 2025 gathering promises to push the boundaries even further. Whether you’re a healer, a dreamer, an artist, or a curious mind—this is where you’ll want to be.
Step into the extraordinary.
Wonder awaits.
Step Right Into the Wonder: The Ringling’s 2025 Wonder Symposium Returns with Awe, Art & Healing
“Last year’s symposium sparked something powerful,” says Jennifer Lemmer Posey, co-organizer of the Wonder Symposium and Tibbals Curator of Circus at The Ringling. “The response was incredible—it reminded us just how transformative wonder can be. This year, we’re channeling that energy into a deeper focus, asking: how can museums truly become spaces of healing and awe?”
Katie Nickel, Head of Education and co-organizer, agrees: “We believe visiting museums is good for your health. This symposium is about unlocking the potential of the arts to ignite wonder—and in doing so, support emotional, physical, and mental well-being.”
Kicking it all off is a powerhouse keynote: Dacher Keltner, PhD—renowned scholar of happiness and co-Director of the Greater Good Science Center—will speak on the science of awe and wonder at The Historic Asolo Theater, Wednesday, May 14 at 6 p.m. A book signing and reception will follow, where guests can meet the author and grab a copy of his bestseller, Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How it Can Transform Your Life.
Then on Thursday, May 15, from 1–4:30 p.m., the lawn transforms. It’s the Carnival of Wonder—a free-flowing, joy-fueled celebration on The Ringling’s North Searing Lawn. Think art-making, interactive booths from local orgs, food trucks, games, music, and that signature Ringling mix of curiosity and community. Admission is free with Museum entry.
🎪🎶 Wonder, wellness, and a little bit of circus magic—this is not your average symposium. It’s a full-body experience.
The evening kicks off with a powerful keynote by Jennifer Kuo, MPH, CHES in the Historic Asolo Theater. A respected voice in public health, Kuo will dive into the growing global movement of social prescribing—a healthcare model that integrates art, nature, movement, and service as vital tools for connection, prevention, and healing.
After the keynote, the energy shifts into high gear with Ringling WONDERground in the Museum of Art Courtyard—a dynamic celebration of community and creativity. Expect live music, food trucks, interactive art-making, and electrifying performances. It’s a night where health meets joy and art takes center stage.
Then on Friday, May 16, 2025, the deep dive into wonder continues with a full day of presentations from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., hosted in both the Chao Lecture Hall and the Museum of Art galleries. Scholars, artists, and thought leaders from across disciplines will offer powerful insights into the many faces of wonder. The day concludes with a closing reception in the Center for Asian Art, bringing attendees together for connection, reflection, and celebration.
- Jillianne Abbott | Sarasota Art Museum
- Nicole Bentze, DO, FAAFP, FAMWA | Florida State University College of Medicine, Sarasota
Regional Medical Campus - Jennifer Bonamer
- Poet Emily Carr, Beach Witch | Project Pride
- Amber Lucia Chabus | Artist
- Connie Cuadrado | Sarasota Art Museum
- Deborah Engel, MSN, RN, CWON | Sarasota Memorial Hospital Healthcare System
- Anni Giles | Afición Flamenca
- William Giles | Afición Flamenca
- Carolina González Ph.D. | Afición Flamenca
- John Gulledge, PhD | Wittenberg University
- Piper Hutson, EdD | Missouri Arts Council
- Mitsi Ito
- Brooke Keller, PhD | The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
- Sydney Lemelin | Artist
- Hsuan Chi Liu | Florida State University
- Ann Rowson Love, PhD | Florida State University
- Paula Lynn | National Gallery of Art
- Kelli Maldonado | Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation
- Hedda Matza-Haughton, LCSW | For the Health of It Consultation Services, Arts for Health
Sarasota-Manatee - Ames Morton-Winter | The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
- Hunter O’Hanian | Independent Scholar
- Giovana Pérez-Oliveras | The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art
- Mariah Pierre, BSN, RN, MEDSURG-BC, HNB-BC | Sarasota Memorial Health Care System
- Nathalie Ryan | National Gallery of Art
- Maria Schaedler-Luera | Sarasota Performing Arts Foundation
- Phoebe Scheidegger | Florida State University
- Bruno Wu | Chef
Tickets to the full symposium or individual keynote sessions and WONDERGround are available, along
with a full schedule of events.
