2022 Art Westport Show – A Yearly Event Not to Miss
Every September, a very special Art Show takes place in Westport, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Kansas City, Missouri. Art Westport is a yearly event has been going on for 42 years, and what makes it one not to miss is that it truly draws out the best local artists.
Highlighting local artists
There are plenty of arts and crafts shows happening at all times. Most of the organizers are trying to fill booths and there is always a high variation in quality of exhibitors.
However, Art Westport is thoughtfully curated. With only 150 slots available, there is a selection process in place to ensure only the most amazing artists in their fields are represented. Additionally, all artists have to live within 80 miles of KCMO which makes it a concentrated display of true local talent.
More information can be found on the Art Westport website but here are some masterpieces I loved seeing at last weekend’s show.
Pottery at Art Westport
These Mark Thorson pottery pieces were probably my favorite finds in the ceramics category, because of their celestial feel. According to the artist’s website, the vessels are produced in a traditional way. Once out of the kiln they are wrapped in salt soaked straw and pit fired and this is what creates the galactic look.
Melanie Harvey managed to capture all of the prairie on one beautifully rustic plate – bison, sunflowers and windmills.
And I just love the magic and whimsy imagined to life at Bell Street Pottery.
Mixed Media at Art Westport
I knew Angie Pickman’s art was special, before I even laid eyes on any of it. This is because I had a very hard time getting around the packed booth. She makes paper collage art that is simply stunning. Even at first glance, you will be blown away by renditions of all sorts of creatures and natural motifs. This Rural Pearl (name of her business) marries folksy and modern in such a unique way. And she sells stickers of her art, too!
And then, there are Lori George‘s florals. This flowers do not look much like Gingko, but the colors and use of different mediums is unexpected and refreshing.
Paintings at Art Westport
Art Westport hosted a lot of painters; all impressive in their own right. I will leave you to admire these without additional commentary, but take the time to explore each of these artists’ other works.
Chun Wang
Obviously, these are just a few of the pieces I found the most inspiring. With so much talent Art Westport showcased, I find it very difficult to pick out the favorites. However, I know I will keep going to these shows and hope some of the immense talent and imagination rubs off on me.
