As part of his “Inspired by India” exhibition at The Rubin Museum, artist Francesco Clemente is taking to the stage for a series of eight talks with a variety of creative personalities. The artist and his guest will exchange a found object to catalyze a conversation about the creative process, their personal and spiritual influences, and formative moments in their life.

The series kicked off last week with rock legend Patti Smith serenading Clemente and joking about their shared habit of talking to the dead. Longtime friends, Clemente surprised Smith by gifting an etching by William Blake, which prompted her to pick up her guitar and sing “My Blakean Year.”

For more information about the event, check out The Rubin’s website here.