Crossroads Arts District

I ran a gallery in the crossroads for a year and a half while finishing school at the art institute. Doing so was scary and wonderful and exhausting. I am so glad that I did it because I feel much more confident about myself and my abilities. I now know much more about the business side of my profession (artist) and I also know that I want to do my art but stay away from the sales side of this world for a while at least. I am glad that I have some understanding of all the work galleries owners do, this will make dealing with them and knowing what is reasonable much easier for me in the future. Also having owned my own business and worked at a professional level makes me less worried about my ability to be an “adult” now that I am out of college and feeling the pressure much more of being… professional and adult. The fact that kansas City was a place where I was able to do this, start my own business while still in school and pull myself up by my boot straps into our great art community speaks volumes about what a wonderful city this is for artists and young people.

Although, I will be in KC the second weekend of October, I would like to check this area out. I think KCAI has a gallery there and I would like to see the students’ works in the community.

I think its Summer, Spring and Fall. The first Friday of every month there is a wonderful mini-art fair going on. It is a great way to meet the real characters of this town.

The Crossroads is a neighborhood in KCMO, formerly a wharehouse district near the tracks, it has become a mecca for art galleries, uniques shops and eateries. Developers are adding lofts. Rent and taxes are going up, but First Fridays of each month is a big party with gallery openings, street music, free outdoor films and a trolley to take you around the district. Get a cool blend of multigenerational and diverse socio-economic crowds.

If you’re coming to Kansas City, don’t miss the Crossroads Arts District…especially if you happen to be here on the First Friday of the month, when this thriving neighborhood really comes alive with thousands of local residents and visitors strolling the sidewalks, checking out each other and the new art exhibitions at the many local galleries and art spaces—over forty at last count! Fun restaurants and funky retail shops too, the Crossroads Arts District is one of downtown KC’s favorite places.