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The Newport Symposium: “What Makes It American”

This November, the Newport Symposium explores the theme “What Makes It American” with a series of lectures and tours examining the origins and legacy of art, architecture, landscape and design in the United States. As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, presenters will discuss the history of our national—and Newport—identity through visual culture.

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What you need to know

Rosecliff 548 Bellevue Ave
Newport, RI 02840
Marble House 596 Bellevue Ave
Newport, RI 02840
November 5 – 6, 2026
Questions? Please contact Symposium@NewportMansions.org
Full Scholarships Available! Scholarships will be available to assist undergraduate and graduate students interested in attending the Symposium. More information will be announced this summer.
Corporate Sponsorships Partner with The Preservation Society of Newport County and put your brand at the heart of American heritage, culture and luxury. Our marquee events offer a rare stage for impactful brand visibility and elite VIP hospitality, all set against some of the country's most significant architectural masterpieces.

Your investment does double duty: elevating your brand with a discriminating global audience while helping preserve 11 historic properties, including seven National Historic Landmarks.

Let's build a sponsorship package as extraordinary as the setting.

Contact Jennifer Matthews
Jmatthews@newportmansions.org

Founded in 1993, the Newport Symposium has been an annual convening of fine and decorative arts experts and enthusiasts from across the country and the world. Attendees listen to stimulating lectures, experience behind-the-scenes study opportunities and gather together to network and discuss the future of our history.

Robyn Asleson, Ph.D.

Curator of Prints and Drawings | Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery

Raissa Bretaña, M.F.A

Fashion Historian | Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

Rachel A. Heslop

Senior Project Coordinator | Oak Spring Garden Foundation

Thomas Jayne, M.A.

Interior Designer | Jayne Design Studio

K.L.H. Wells, Ph.D.

Author and Assistant Professor of Art History | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Christopher Young

Vice President & Creative Director | Tiffany Patrimony & Global Creative Visual Merchandising, Tiffany & Co.

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