Sparks happen when curious minds connect.
Curated talks, presentations and film screenings that promote discussion and strengthen community.
Upcoming Event
Patrick Bringley
Sunday, November 2nd, 2 pm
"All the Beauty in the World" is Patrick Bringley's New York Times bestselling book that recounts his ten years working as a security guard at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Following a personal loss, Bringley found solace within the museum's walls, where his daily encounters with art, coworkers, and visitors deeply influenced his outlook. The book delves into how engaging with art on a personal level—beyond scholarly interpretation—can be transformative. Through his experiences, Bringley reveals how art can comfort, uplift, and offer fresh insights into grief, life, and meaning.
This event is being made possible through the generous support of Pawling resident Chuck Werner. Bringley will sign copies of his book, which will be sold in the lobby after the talk by The Book Cove.
Patrick makes his first appearance at Gardiner Theater in Pawling. Tickets are $20..
Welcome to The Spark Presents
Our Mission
Our Partners
Our Mission
The Spark Presents is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing public discourse through curated talks, film screenings and interactive learning experiences. By sharing diverse perspectives and encouraging open discussion, we contribute to a more informed and connected community.
Our Team
Our Partners
Our Mission
We have a crew of dedicated people working to bring you meaningful events each month from September to June. Meet Dorian Winslow, Sam Petersson, Maria Reade and Lisa Kelsey.
Our Partners
Our Partners
Our Partners
We're grateful for the ongoing support of Trinity-Pawling School for the use of Gardiner Theater, and local sponsors who provide funding and in kind donations.
Past Events
Tom Wessels Talk
Renowned ecologist Tom Wessels invites us to become detectives of the land, decoding the rich narratives that shape our natural surroundings. For this event Tom Wessels interprets photos sent by members of the audience taken in our local woods.
June 1, 2025
"Join Or Die" Film & Discussion with Filmmaker
The award winning documentary ‘Join or Die’ examines the decline of civic engagement in America. A lively discussion with the director Rebecca Davis via Zoom on the big screen followed the screening.
April 27, 2025
"Transforming Food" Film Festival and Panel Discussion
A two day film festival exploring how we grow, process, package and deliver our food. A panel discussion with farmers, chefs and food advocates.
March 8 and 9, 2025
Edward Hopper and John Singer Sargent, Films and Discussion
Two iconic artists, two days of documentary film screenings followed by Q&A led by Ned Reade, art teacher emeritus at Trinity-Pawling School.
February 8 and 9, 2025
"Food and Country" Film Screening
Ruth Reichl (former editor in chief of Gourmet magazine) stars in an award-winning documentary that captures the challenges facing farmers, fishermen, ranchers, chefs, and activists as they strive to produce nutritious food in America.
October 20, 2024
"Solving the problem of Plastic" Moderated by Soledad O'Brien
Journalist Soledad O’Brien moderates a discussion with Eve Schaub, author of Year of No Garbage, and Meghan Olson of Ecovative. Ecovative is the world’s leading mycelium technology company, reshaping industries by replacing plastics and animal products with sustainable plant-based alternatives.
April 21, 2024