New space! Who ‘dis?
The Kansas City Artists Coalition has new digs—well, they almost have new digs. As we speak, they’re putting the finishing touches on a new location that immerses them in the heart of Midtown (32nd& Gillham). Even though the space is more intimate than their previous locale, they are excited to announce they will have an entire floor dedicated for artists to rent studio space. We caught up with executive director Marissa Starke during a happy hour to welcome guests inside.
What would you like people to know about your new digs?
“The Artists Coalition’s new location will continue to provide the same vibrant and compelling exhibitions and programming that we have offered for the past 43 years, but with this new location we are excited to bring artists’ studios as an additional resource for the arts community in Kansas City.”
What’s word on the street been about your move?
“There is a definite buzz of excitement and good energy coming from our members and supporters for the new KCAC space! We can’t wait to show off the new galleries and open our doors to the Kansas City community in September.”
You open to the public—when?
“The KC Chamber Ribbon Cutting is Thursday, September 12th from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.! Join us for a morning of coffee, treats, and good vibes. The first Exhibition Opening is Friday, September 13th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will feature works from the Kansas City Society for Contemporary Photography and Cara Dunkerley. All events are free and open to the public—so come celebrate with KCAC!”
You’re about to unveil a new artist’s space/studios downstairs at your new location. Tell me more.
“The KCAC Artist Studios is a direct response to a current need in Kanas City for affordable studios. We are looking forward to being able to eight to ten artists in a community studio environment that will foster creative energies and showcase the talents that are right here in Kansas City. With our artists’ studios, exhibitions, workshops and programming we will be able to help keep Kansas City an affordable place for artists to live and work.”
Finally, you’ve got a big event coming up. What is it? We’re all ears!
“The art of fashion will transform Kansas City this fall! Coalesce will feature prominent local artists taking on couture for the first time, resulting in a high-end fashion show unlike any other. We are so excited to invite the Kansas City community on November 2, 2019 to join us in an art and fashion fusion unlike anything Kansas City has seen.”