Cross Currents: Frameworks of Intelligence

This iteration of Cross Currents explored how different fields understand knowledge itself.

UL Community•February 13, 2026

On January 28, 2026, at the Hilliard Art Museum, the latest iteration of Cross Currents, a series using visual art as a catalyst for interdisciplinary dialogue, explored “Frameworks of Intelligence.” The multilayered program brought together the community for a lively conversation with three distinguished panelists and a moderator from within the region.

Four people sit on yellow chairs on a stage, engaged in a panel discussion under a sign that reads “Cross Currents.” Audience members are seated in the foreground, listening attentively.

The Hilliard hosted the following experts:

Dr. David Squires, Associate Professor of English at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, as moderator
Dr. Raju Gottumukkala, Director of the Center for Applied AI and Director of Research for the Informatics Research Institute
Fr. Nick Ware, Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of Wisdom Catholic Church
Dr. Samantha Webre, Gifted & Talented Program Supervisor, Lafayette Parish School System

The panel explored how different fields understand knowledge itself. Drawing from artist Mare Martin’s practice of daily sketching as a fundamental method of knowing—not capturing, but comprehending the world—this panel brought together experts in artificial intelligence, philosophy, education, and religious studies.

Three women greet each other and shake hands in an art gallery. One woman smiles while holding a drink, and paintings are visible on the walls. Another person stands in the background near a doorway.

Panelists investigated how embodied, iterative engagement with the world (as exemplified in Martin’s studio and gardening practice) compares to more abstract or systematic modes of knowing. By positioning Martin’s artistic practice as the catalyst for inquiry, the panel demonstrated how visual art opens critical questions about the nature of intelligence itself—questions that resonate across disciplines and challenge us to reconsider how we validate and value different ways of understanding.

A person stands with a microphone, addressing a seated audience at an indoor event. The room is modern with large art on the wall and a stage in the background displaying the words Cross Currents.

A man wearing a coat and scarf stands in an art gallery, looking at a framed artwork on a white wall. Several colorful paintings are displayed behind him. The floor is wooden.

A large group of people seated in a modern art gallery, attentively listening to a speaker. Behind them, a colorful abstract artwork is displayed on the wall. The atmosphere is focused and engaged.

Listen to the full audio of the panel

Hilliardmuseumsocial · crosscurrents

Learn more about Mare Martin’s work and watch the Studio Session film featuring a visit to her garden and studio in Opelousas, Louisiana, on our stories page.

Cross Currents takes place twice per year, in the Fall and Spring. The next program will be in May 2026.

Acknowledgments

The Hilliard Art Museum extends heartfelt thanks to all the of the panelists and guests.

Mare Martin: Beyond the Botanical, presented by Kiki Frayard, on view at the Hilliard Art Museum from September 13, 2025, to February 14, 2026.

Special thanks to Mare Martin for her collaboration and for sharing her meaningful work with the community and beyond. The exhibition sparked inquiry and programs across many platforms, including digital video, adult and children’s workshops, school tours, and panel discussions.