Cultural diplomacy & identity: Moldova’s PM Vasile Tofan used Taraclia’s Unity through Diversity festival to argue that knowing multiple languages and preserving community traditions is how the country stays strong. Inclusive arts: A new photography project in Scotland, “The Same Dance, Different Song,” has been acquired by the National Galleries of Scotland to spotlight disabled dancers and close representation gaps. Public art, made permanent: Sonoma accepted Peter Hassen’s monumental Corten steel sculpture “Cycles #3,” set for a downtown plaza installation and unveiling Oct. 1. Arts access & funding models: Boulder’s Dairy Arts Center revised its Co-Production Program to accept applications year-round, offering rent-free space and support instead of a stipend. Heritage through immersive tech: Moldova’s parliament hosted “Art Comes to Life,” using augmented reality to animate national artworks for visitors. Pop culture with cultural stakes: Ahsoka Season 2 concept art teases a bigger Thrawn showdown, while manga creator watomura urged fans to protect their well-being by choosing publishing options that don’t force creators to reveal themselves. Community arts calendars: Kitchener kicked off Ontario’s Culture Days with a weekend of free concerts, tours, and exhibitions. Art + activism in music: Damon Albarn joined the Ed Sheeran/Macklemore controversy, telling fans “don’t ever be neutral.”