Nevada Humanities is partnering with the Desert Research Institute on a new series of events in Reno and Las Vegas. Curiosity Lab by DRI brings together storytellers from science, the humanities, and the arts to illuminate our shared connection to the state of Nevada.
Join us for an evening of storytelling that delves into the mysteries of exploring what once seemed unreachable. The Possible Unknown highlights stories of curiosity, innovation, and determination that open doors to new frontiers—whether through groundbreaking technology, scientific discovery, or personal journeys. Discover how the impossible becomes possible and the unknown becomes accessible to all.
DRI Storyteller: Megan Stueve, assistant research scientist, anthropology/archaeology at DRI, will tell a story that is still unfolding. Stueve is documenting hiking trails throughout state parks in Nevada using 3D technology. The result is an immersive and accessible digital space where visitors can explore Nevada hiking trails even if hiking those trails is physically impossible.
Featured Storyteller: Ryan Cooper has spent the last decade building world-class endurance races and most recently for the IRONMAN Group, all while chasing his own dreams—but one journey changed everything. Cooper invites audiences to reflect on what it means to chase dreams, confront loss, and find meaning in the mountains—both literal and metaphorical.
Featured Storyteller: Dr. Julian Kilker is a media scholar specializing in emerging technologies and their impact, and most recently guest-edited the open-source journal Tradition-Innovations’ issue on “Artificial Intelligence and Possible Future for the Arts.” His research on innovation and visual methods spans work exhibited in Switzerland, Washington DC, California, and Nevada and multiple academic publications.
Attendees are also encouraged to visit At the Heart of Basin and Range at the Nevada Humanities Program Gallery (located next to Vegas Theatre Company) before and after the event. The gallery will be open from 1:00 to 8:30 pm. The exhibit is co-curated by featured storyteller Julian Kilker.
