Art

As part of Kansas City's efforts to explore how to reconnect the predominantly Black neighborhoods that were split by the construction of Highway 71, local artists are using their talents to visualize people's ideas.

Summer is a perfect time to visit Kansas City's many independent art galleries, with inventive exhibits from established and up-and-coming artists.

Some artists shy away from using AI. Kansas City photographer and digital artist David Morris embraces it. Hear how a local creative harnesses AI to bring his vision to life, and where you can see it. Plus: A Kansas City bookselling icon is retiring after years of tracking down Black books and vinyl. Now, a new generation is stepping up to preserve her legacy.

The governor’s budget vetoes included money for tutoring programs, road infrastructure improvements, workforce development, food assistance and arts organizations. "These losses are huge," says Arts Asylum director Evie Craig.

Explore the history of the area, along with arts galleries, restaurants, breweries and more with this beginner's guide to the Crossroads Arts District, Kansas City's creative heart.

Local artists can have a hand in creating public art to accompany a planned skate park between River Market and the West Bottoms. Riders in the area hope the site becomes a hub for the local skateboarding community.

Professional artist and sign maker Dave Eames says diligent journaling has helped him download and remember important moments, cringeworthy mishaps and the mundanity of life. His work has garnered millions of views online.

Melissa Ferrer Civil found community, and a path toward better mental health, through poetry. Now, she’s spreading the good word.

Arts organization in Kansas City are under financial pressure after the Trump administration rescinded grants from the National Endowment for the Arts. Spinning Tree Theatre is one of hundreds of organizations who were notified by email last week that their grant had been withdrawn.

Kansas City Art Institute opens their campus every year for ARTPOP, an end-of-semester party with student installations, performances and music. Visitors can see the work of more than 100 artists and get first peek at a weekend-long exhibition and sale.

Nelson-Atkins officials announced this week that the New York City firm Weiss/Manfredi will be the lead architect for the museum's upcoming expansion project, which is expected to be the largest investment in Kansas City arts in years.

After a global competition, and a monthslong selection process, museum officials announced the New York City firm Weiss/Manfredi will design their ambitious new expansion project. It's estimated to be the largest investment in Kansas City arts in recent years.