PNCA MA in Critical Studies

We are thrilled to open a call for papers for PNCA’s 2026 Symposium: Art, Aura, and the Algorithm.

What happens to art, authorship, and presence when AI enters the creative process?

We invite proposals from artists, writers, and scholars interested in questions like:
Can AI-generated art possess aura?
What becomes of authorship, originality, and artistic presence today?
How is aura produced, performed, or gamified online?
What new forms of creativity emerge through human–machine collaboration?

FORMAT:
We are accepting proposals for individual papers (15–20 minutes). Research, creative practice, and community-based work are all welcome. Graduate & advanced undergraduate students are especially encouraged to submit. You don’t need all the answers—just a strong question to explore.

Submission should include an abstract (300 words max), bio (100 words max), and any tech or accessibility needs. Send to [email protected]

DEADLINE: July 15, 2026

Congratulations to all of our graduating thesis students on two days of theoretically rich research talks! Thank you for sharing your work with us!

Good morning Baltimore! will be at Come find us in the book fair

Dreamers and Schemers Critical Studies alumn as part of THE Q***R TRANS CAUCUS FOR ART

It happened last night! Critical Studies Professor Dr. Madeline Lane-McKinley in conversation with Critical Studies Professor Dr. Sloane McNulty about her new book Solidarity with Children.
Lane-McKinley makes a provocative, necessary argument for child liberation and collective care, challenging how parenting and caregiving function under capitalism. What would it actually mean to be in solidarity with children rather than just advocating for them from above?

📚 Solidarity with Children by Madeline Lane-McKinley

Learn more about the MA in Critical Studies Program. Applications open now! Earn your MA or MA + MFA

Now available to preorder from The Return of the 90s: 🔥 https://www.plutobooks.com/product/the-return-of-the-90s/

The Risk Portraits: Lauren Berlant by Riva Lehrer

Have a restful holiday everyone! See you in the New Year.

What were some of your favorite reads in 2025?