Have coffee with the internationally celebrated contemporary fiber artist Jason Pollen who will give a private tour of his studio/gallery.  Pollen is known internationally for his masterful interplay of textiles, patterns, dyes and the “stuffiness” of his materials.  He enjoys mixing silks, different kinds of canvas thread, wire and twigs.  He has also experimented with ceramics and his use of various pigments is a reminder that he started as a painter.

 

Next , take a short walk (or ride bus) to view the current exhibitions of the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Experience Kansas City jazz as you enjoy a locally sourced lunch with the Kemper Docents at the award-winning Cafe Sebastienne.  Museum President Mary Kemper Wolf will share insights into current exhibitions and the museum’s 26 years in the Kansas City community. 

 

Finally, end your tour across the street with a custom highlights visit to the vibrant art spaces and activity at the Kansas City Art Institute, where the next generation of contemporary artists are honing their craft.  Meet the new KCAi Nerman Family President Ruki Neuhold-Ravikumar, formerly Acting Director of the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Museum of Design.  Just a few notable artists associated with KCAI:  Walt Disney, Thomas Hart Benton, Robert Rauschenberg, Nick Cave and many more!