THOMAS HART BENTON SYMPOSIUM took place
November 21, 2008 at the Municipal Auditorium in
Neosho, MO. The goal of the Symposium was to provide area high school students with an opportunity to explore various cultural and artistic topics, with a new topic presented each year.

The 2008 Symposium explored Native American culture and contributions, and artist Charles Banks Wilson, who is famous for his American Indian art, was honored.

Featured speakers included:

• Chief Glenna Wallace of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, noted Chautauqua performer and Native American Historian.
  
• Ms. Carrie Wilson, daughter of Charles Banks Wilson and a noted authority on Indian history, culture and contributions to U.S. Society.
  
• Charles Banks Wilson, along with “From the Ozarks and Beyond” producer Paul Wannenmacher, will explore Mr. Wilson’s artistic work and his insight into Native American culture.