The Most Flavorful Art Galleries in Kansas City

Mood Swings

★★★★★ 5 (3)

"Kitt the hairstylist is awesome! I'm deaf myself and didn't have any problem with communication. She did my hair so great! I d recommend her to do your hair!"

TallulahBelle's

★★★★☆ 3.8 (5) • $$

"As far as small art galleries/fun stores go, I really enjoy this one. I've been in several times and the staff has been very friendly and informative each time. They have a nice selection of items and they know the history of each artist that they carry. They seem to always have some textiles, jewelry, purses, artwork and ceramics and I think they have a fair price range for handcrafted items in a high rent district. It's definitely worth checking out!"

La Bottega Vintage Market

★★★★☆ 4.3 (11) • $$

"I like this place. It's A-OK with many booths offering a variety of goodies.Pros: Changing vendor inventory! Good selection and fun repurposed items too.Cons: Some booths have "antique looking" items that you can find at Hobby Lobby perhaps. Be observant and selective! The front desk (owner?) could be a little more (or a lot more) friendly. Every time I've come in here, he doesn't say a word and I usually have to say something."

The Arts Asylum

★★★★☆ 4.4 (5) • $$

"Opening in 2012 The Arts Asylum advertises itself as "A Safe Place To Create". The safeness is questionable when looking around the neighborhood; It is surrounded by derelict apartment buildings, homeless shelters and a park notorious for drugs and crime. They did have visible security outside during the event so I have no issues attending, I just wouldn't want anyone to think that they could walk to an evening performance since it's only a few blocks away from tourist areas to the west. The structure is an impressive looking old large stone behemoth that surely has much history.The interior space is nothing fancy, but serves the purpose of allowing mainstream community theater groups such as the Barn Players to more experimental groups such as Faust Theater and The Fringe Festival to practice and perform. There is also studio and gallery space available. The theater holds around 200 I'm estimating. I attended this week to see Lizzie - A Rock Opera by Faust Theater Co. It was a great production and well performed by all 4 actors and a 6 piece rock band. A few minor issues. Each seat row has only one entrance and there are a couple of poles to avoid when picking your seat. The sound was not the best and I moved from the 2nd row to the back row at intermission to get a better listening experience. They were only serving wine and Bud Lite at the concession stand, since we are here to support local arts, stock some BLVD or KC Bier options! Even for the minor issues, they deserve at least 4 stars for giving artists and patrons another option in this great arts city."

Graffiti Attic

★★★★★ 5 (2)

"A local project to encourage artists and display their work. On the first Friday of every month, they open it to the public to come to admire the talented group of artists. A fun date night activity or tourist attraction for friends or family visiting."

Jones Gallery

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"I'm embarrassed to say that after 12 years in operation, last Saturday was my first visit to Jones Gallery; I'm not embarrassed to say that they are my new favorite gallery. Representing and showcasing dozens of local artist of all genres, media and cultures. Their home is a powerful and primitive, yet vibrant large space with high ceilings to exhibit a multitude of pieces. The price points are extremely reasonable on most work and it may sound cliché' but there is something for everyone - at least those that give a damn about supporting the local arts scene. The owners on site were personable and welcoming and exhibited no "elitist" attitudes that sometime merchants of art can reveal to customers ( I worked in a record store - I know about elitism, lol ).My wife picked up a small pop-art piece from Ukrainian born local artist Iryna Stroganova, and with my wife's birthday just a few weeks away, I already know where I will be returning soon alone. With comfy seating areas for lounging while sipping a coffee from the attached coffee shop - Slow Bar; Jones Gallery seems to have their finger on the pulse of what it takes to run a business while supporting local artists. They deserve much success."

Belger Arts Center

★★★★★ 4.6 (8) • $$

"During my "staycation" week, I've been trying to do something new each day and Belger Arts Center entered my radar as an unknown entity. I arrived on Wednesday morning and was given a one person tour from Mo. We took the freight elevator to the 3rd floor and entered a large space that was currently showcasing 2 exhibits. A vast collection of George Timock's career; a former KCAI instructor that worked in clay: Raku ceramics to wildly decorative porcelain. The other exhibit was a group show of former winners of the Charlotte Street Foundation Award. A wide range of different media showcasing local art of the past 20 years in Kansas City.Upon exiting on the 1st floor, there was also a small exhibit of ceramic art from Shalene Valenzuela.My guide was great and provided history and insight on the pieces, the artists and the history of the Belger business, family and their vast collection. Unlike larger museums, the guide knew the most of the artists and was providing personal recollections not reading from a script. I literally had to raise my right hand and swear that I would only tell "cool" people about this Arts Center before leaving, so be warned.... A great experience!"

MOD Gallery & Space

★★★★★ 4.6 (10) • $$

"This is the place to be on First Friday.Part art gallery and part music venue.The art gallery rotates presenting artists. It also sells selected works and hosts interactive events like painting classes.The music venue schedules mostly electronic and dance-based performers. The events are usually scheduled on weekend evenings however special events will pop up from time to time.It's a little small inside, but the sound is pretty good.Lights are okay.A cash bar with limited beers and mixed drinks is available."

Darkwood House Gallery

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Darkwood House Gallery is tucked in the lower level of a strip of shops along Winner Rd. in the Englewood Arts District. It's hidden from view from the street, but very much worth navigating your way off the beaten path, down the staircase and entering the netherworld. The gallery is a well curated space featuring several local artists works for exhibit and sale. The art is all fascinatingly dark in subject matter - with occult, gothic, necromancer... subject matter. All of the art is interspersed by collections of artifacts some for display most for sale; ranging from medical tools, taxidermy, wet specimens, a mad scientist laboratory, and all the way up to an actual human skull. DHG is not for the faint of heart, the fundamental religious or those that believe that Thomas Kinkade's work is interesting or art. The gallery director Darren is quite welcoming and engaging as was one of the featured artists that was on site - John Kelly. Local artist and "rogue taxidermist" Simone Smith was heavily featured with her wide array of pieces and the model for another featured artist's b/w photography. Check the hours before you go, they are usually open only weekend evenings, but they are well worth the trip to an under rated and emerging neighborhood. The 3rd Friday Englewood Art's Walk is a sure way to visit when they are open and see a multi-block arts fest."

Wonder Fair

★★★★☆ 4.3 (41) • $$

"What a fabulous store! This is a nice little business tucked away on Massachusetts Street. There is a little of everything here for those who love paper, pens, journals. There is quite an abundance of stock here. I was so overwhelmed with the assortment of items on the first floor, I didn't dare peek at the second floor I knew there was much more to entice me. The staff was very helpful and everyone was friendly. The store was very busy when we were there so little interaction. I saw how the staff interacted with customers and they were kind and helpful. I would like to go back when it wasn't so busy. There is so much to see... this store is right up my alley."

Noir Arts and Oddities

★★★★★ 4.8 (17) • $$

"Cool shop!! Unique, and fun to wander and explore."

The Tipsy Red Fox

★★★★★ 5 (5) • $$

"Intimate setting. Demetri Pink was an excellent instructor. Very professional fun safe environment. Our group of ladies had fun"

Prairiebrooke

★★★★☆ 3.8 (9) • $$$

"I have truly mixed feelings about Prairiebrooke. I actually have a lot of original artwork around my house that I purchased there, including a commissioned piece that was based on a painting I saw there that I loved. They're also in my neighborhood and I really love supporting local business. But I had an experience with the owner there that soured me a bit on their gallery. I went in with my hubby, who, at the time, was not exactly well-employed. He was working part-time while going to school. The owner greeted us and almost immediately asked my hubby what he did for a living and he told him. It was clearly an attempt to size him up to see if he could afford to buy something. The owner never asked ME what I do for a living, but instead assumed we couldn't afford anything in the store because apparently we live in 1948 and no woman could possibly sustain a household with her career, much less make a decision to purchase art. It was odd to see him trying to maneuver away from us as quickly as possible while not being rude. It didn't work. It was not only rude, but insulting. He should let his staff work with customers because they never once insulted me when I had been there in the past, but he certainly did. Ever since that time, I have not felt compelled to buy art there. I often window shop the store, and sometimes I wander in, but only if they look too busy to approach me. So here's the thing: They really do have nice stuff there in a variety of styles. They do a good job at framing as well. They have a lot of stuff available that is not on their walls...just ask to see it. But do keep in mind that if the owner is there, you could be subjected to sexist insulting behavior. If you can get past that, it's a great place to find artwork that you will love forever."

Kansas City Artists Coalition

★★★★★ 5 (1) • $$

"This lovely, unassuming gallery/artists resource center has been serving the creative community of the Kansas City region for over 30 years.Ten times each year they stage exhibits in their three, adjoining galleries, located in the ArtSpace building in the River Market. Their showings are sometimes individual artists and other times regionally selected groups of artists, including their annual student shows highlighting the works of emerging college students.Besides presenting exhibits, they serve their professional creative membership with seminars and classes on marketing, accounting, the law pertaining to the business of art, grant writing and submitting for public art commissions. They also serve as a resource center in introducing voluminous catalogues of the works of their members to prospective buyers, including corporations, designers and discerning individuals.They are just completing a new addition, an artist(s) in residency studio, which will provide living and working facilities for artists selected from around the globe. What an exciting, under the radar, opportunity for Kansas City to reach the world!It's one of my favorite places to view art in KC, up there with the Nelson. Calm, inviting, and I always feel as though I can look for hours without anyone feeling the need to "inform and advise". However, if I have questions or comments, the staff is always ready to offer what they may.Another nearly hidden gem."

Truckhenge

★★★★★ 4.5 (6)

"My (now husband) took me here last summer and I'm pretty sure I was having culture shock (but in a good way) because I had just listened to the Podcast S-Town & read the book Hillbilly Elegy as well as watched the movie on Netflix or Hulu. But yes, culture shock in the best way. I had no idea this hidden gem was so close to me. It was so fun and we can't wait to come back this summer with some friends. But this time we will be prepared- bring old christmas lights, spray paint cans (not empty ones), your fishing poles, & bug spray. Awesome cultural gem that you will not experience anywhere else."

H&R Block Artspace at the Kansas City Art Institute

★★★★★ 5 (2) • $

"The H&R Block Artspace is a mid size gallery at 43rd and Walnut and located just 2 blocks from campus and its sister The KCAI Gallery; and is much larger.I attended the 2021 KCAI Biennial this weekend and absolutely loved this mixed media exhibition. Featuring 49 current students and faculty; a hodgepodge of the profound to the whimsical. Film to fiber; ceramics to found objects, written word to sculpture. A perfect cacophony to stimulate and delight at as you wander from piece to piece. This exhibit ends 3/5/22, but I have already set up a calendar reminder so I don't miss the annual BFA Exhibit opening in April.With free admission, the Artspace should be on everyone's list of simple Saturday pleasures in Kansas City. Long live the Kansas City Art Institute and thank you to the cultural impact they have cultivated in this great city over the decades."

Zhou B Art Center

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"WOW! What a fantastic afternoon spent here today. The Zhou Brothers of Chicago have opened an annex of their Chicago art center in the old Crispus Attucks school in the Jazz District. Once, one of the largest black elementary schools in the nation; this spacious 4 floor building has been renovated to the fullest extent and seems not only historic, but very modern, eclectic and welcoming. The space contains large gallery spaces for rotating exhibits, an auditorium for live speaking and musical events, a large collection of artwork created by the Zhou Brothers, and many studio spaces that are rented to working artists. During my visit, three artists were in their studios creating. Their doors are open and you are welcome to step in and see their art and visit with them. I had wonderful conversations with from 2 artists - Phyllis Jenkins and Susan Walter and a charming employee that gave me a brief tour and history lesson on the building and it's current mission. Not only did i get to have meaningful engagements, I was able to purchase some art for my office. They were prepping the auditorium for a classical music production of Don Quixote that evening and in two weeks their will be a rock concert. The neighborhood and city is very fortunate to have a concept such as this in a historic building that needed saving. Very eager to attend future exhibits, meet more artists, attend some musical events and just support local."

Sherry Leedy Contemporary Art

★★★★★ 5 (2) • $$$$

"This is a Crossroads mainstay. They have a really interesting space in an old warehouse. This is among some of the better art galleries in the district. I believe they have art from local artists as well as national artists like Dale Chihuly. Always something interesting, usually pretty cutting edge. Visit on a First Friday if you want a lively crowd (but it may be really really crowded) or visit any other day and have the space to yourself!"

Country Club Plaza Art Fair

★★★★☆ 4.3 (16) • $$

"Tip of the cap to the Plaza Art Fair as one of the most comprehensive, well-run events that happens annually in Kansas City. Because I love events and event planning, I think of the questions that I'd ask and that the audience would ask before going to something. So, ::drumroll::, I'm change it up and roll with a review in a Q&A style!Question: Do you need to know the nuances of paintings to attend to Art Fair? Answer: No. Q: But..but.. the Royals are on. Should I skip the Art Fair?A: No. They have a gigantic big screen, tables and chairs and even sound piped in under the stars. Better than a sports bar in my opinion.Q: Is it quality artwork?A: Very! In fact, too quality for my pocketbook, but some beautiful things to look at and some great conversations with the artists to be had. I often feel bad for popping in someone's booth, seeing their amazing creations and not buying anything. I just simply ask for a business card and add it to the pile of things I'd love to have someday.Q: What's the biggest drawback?A: Maybe the middle of the US is a bit off kilter and gives everyone slight vertigo? It seems that people can't walk with any purpose or with any organization at a big gathering in the midwest. What might be a normal flow in SF, NYC, Chicago is almost never found at a big event in KC. Be prepared for a bit of a cluster when it's busy at the Art Fair.I'd imagine parking is a drawback as well, but I live close enough to walk. My street is a ways from the Plaza but gets swamped the weekend of the event. Usually the weather is great this weekend, so just plan to park a ways and enjoy the stroll.Q: What's the food scene?A: Pretty good, general street fair from the Plaza restaurants. In fact it's all Plaza restaurants which is an impressive task, and a hat tip to them for being a huge part of the festival. It's a good chance to try some of the higher end places at street foo prices. The only downside is that the food areas are so crowded you may find yourself dining on the curb, eye level with the pups walking through the art fair. Q: If you could change one thing about it?A: I'd add a lot more local artists. From what I've heard, it's tough to get selected and pay the fees to be a part of it, so it phases out a lot of KC artists. It would be cool to see them represented.Q: Any pro-tips?A: See about booking a patio spot at a Plaza restaurant (not all will be able to hold it but worth a shot). That way you can dine on a nice meal OFF curb level and still feel a part of the action."

Eclectics Gift Gallery Ltd

★★★★★ 4.8 (10) • $$

"We've been visiting this shop for years now, usually right around the holidays to look for gifts. They have lots of jewelry, ornaments and ceramics, as well as other handmade gifts to choose from. Staff is always friendly and helpful and is generally one of the artists taking their turn at staffing the location."

The Bunker Center for the Arts

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Great little art spot! ...Located at 19th and Troost in Kansas City Missouri, The Bunker Center for the Arts is a Gallery and active studio space meant to combine museum style exhibitions with artists workspaces in a unique labyrinthine office building that hasn't been updated since the 70's."

Imagine That

★★★★★ 5 (2) • $$

"This is a must stop when down in the Crossroads, especially during First Friday. Area adults with developmental disabilities sell their artwork here and also use the space to create their work. This is a great way for the artists to make income. 80% of the price goes directly to the artist. The remaining 20% is used to buy products for the artists to use. If you can not make it on First Friday, you can stop by on a weekday to see the work. I purchased a great piece and I am looking forward to visiting and adding to my collection. The best part was meeting the artist and his excitement knowing his artwork was getting a home and would be enjoyed. Thanks Josh! I love Gizmo!"

2010 Gallery

★★★★☆ 4 (1) • $$$

"2010 Gallery is a beautiful, upscale space on the east side of the popular Crossroads Art District. Offerings lean towards the traditional with a number of nationally and internationally significant artists represented; fans of contemporary and abstract art will find plenty of interesting works as well. High-end pieces mix with genuinely affordable examples of decorative art making the gallery an enjoyable experience for all. 2010 is open on First Fridays March through December and by appointment. On First Fridays they offer wine and hors d'oeuvres from 6-10pm, with live music in the back room or outdoors on the deck if weather permits. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable--not at all snobby--even though they could be given the level of art they present. All in all a great little gem of a gallery."

Stone Tree Coffee & Pottery

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Quaint small town coffee shop run by a father/son duo. Super meeting place right on Main Street. Beautiful original tin ceiling."

Hawaii Fluid Art Kansas City

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"So much fun. I love doing acrylic pours! The employees are so nice. They have other cute things there to buy as well. It doesn't cost too much to do a 12x12, it was $35. Perfect size square for your first time or just wanting to do something fun and not do so much. Of course it's more if you want to do a bigger size. Think there are maybe 5 sizes to choose from. You can also put resin on top for extra cost."

323CLAY

★★★★★ 5 (3) • $$

"The BYOB pottery class is a great night or get together event to do with friends and family. David Lee couldn't be nicer and is a great instructor for all ages."

Haw Contemporary

★★★★★ 4.5 (4)

"A fairly large building with a new warehouse vibe located in the West Bottoms, but several blocks south of where most of the old warehouse renovations are taking shape and creating a buzz. I visited today to see the Julie Blackmon exhibit - "Metaverse". The photography exhibit featured about 12 large pieces and 1 installation that recreated her photo - "Costco"; using a Mitsubishi mini-van, a stuffed animal, cases of alcohol... a ridiculously fun visual. The remainder of the pieces evoked small town or rural Missouri living at it's most innocent and barren yet with lots of light and color. My only disappointment is that I was never greeted or given any acknowledgment from staff that did see me from the backroom. After leaving, I was reading up on the gallery and discovered that I missed a 2nd floor. I would have loved to have seen more of the space if I knew where it was. Even though missing some of the gallery and being shown indifference towards my visit; I will still incorporate Haw into my rotating gallery visits. It wasn't like I was charged an admission and I still got to see some cool art!"

Leedy-Voulkos Art Center

★★★★★ 5 (4) • $

"Very nice gallery with large open rooms. Very inviting, several different artists and exhibits. Took our time and we were in and out in about half an hour. We really enjoyed the mechanical art, paintings, pottery and tile work. A few of the artists were there. Very friendly."

Art & Frame Warehouse

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Forget about the Hobby chain stores, they can't touch the quality and attention to detail offered by Art & Frame. I just had 31 pieces of my Fathers work framed and matted with UV glass. Perfect! They speak and understand Art, understanding the emotional bond people have for precious works regardless of the composition or the artist. Simply the best."

kc art angels

★★★★★ 5 (4) • $$

"Favorite art gallery and art studio. My kids do pottery classes and I hang out with the owner who is so sweet. Shopping, restaurants and art all in one spot."

Hilliard Gallery

★★★★★ 4.5 (2) • $$$

"Being a student at KCAI, I have been to my share of galleries in town, but last night was the first night I actually ventured to the Hilliard Gallery. Kansas City Cabaret was hosting their Beginning Burlesque Recital, of five fresh ladies that just graduated a burlesque class taught my the lovely Ms. Mary Magdelene (the dancing queen.) Besides the girls doing so well for their first burlesque show, the gallery space was really nice too. They had a really good sound system and wonderful video projections playing trippy spliced Betty Page videos. All of the artwork in the gallery is for sale, too! I guess the owner rents the space out for basically any event (wedding receptions, parties, burlesque recitals, art shows, art performances, you name it...) I think it's really cool that you can host basically any event in a space filled with amazing local art!"

East Side Co-Op

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"If Joseph Cornell had ever turned one of his art boxes into a gallery, this would be it. How I love love love the entire aesthetic of the East Side Co-Op! It's like walking into your hip sister's rustic chic clubhouse, only there's jewelry, art, a photography studio, vintage clothing, pottery and more. It's dripping in jewels, scarves, bones/taxidermy, quirky/dark paintings and photographs and there's a nice seating area in which you want to put your feet up and never ever leave (don't dare me!) There's also some friendly (alive) fish hanging out in adorned bowls.In addition to being a must-stop for First Friday openings, East Side Co Op hosts seasonal craft fairs and charity events. I also appreciate that they have bands play the events, to add another media in the whole mix. I've been to two events here now and the feeling of the collective is a welcoming one. Besides the fact that everything is designed and arranged to make you want to buy every single thing in the place, at once you are inspired to tap into your own creative outlets and do something/anything. Isn't this what the best art should do?"

Byron C. Cohen Gallery for Contemporary Art

★★★★★ 5 (1)

"Another great Freighthouse / Crossroads gallery housed in a beautiful space. This one always has something interesting and is next door to other great galleries, too. Great jumping off point for First Fridays!"

Phoenix Gallery

★★★★★ 4.8 (21) • $$

"Now THIS is my kind of shop! Filled with local and national art, there is a wide range of items perfect for you or that special gift.I wandered in one night as a beautiful ceramic bowl in the window beckoned to me. I purchased it and now want to go back and get the matching coasters as it looks so beautiful in my home. I also like that you get a small card that tells you about the artist, where he/she is located and what kind of work they specialize in.They have a wide range of products; ceramics, jewelry, candles, paintings and fabric. And at a wide variety of price points you are sure to find something you like. And on my recent visit, they opened a more casual shop down the basement that has more hand made goods but at lower price points. They have some felted bags down there that really caught eye, but also candles, stationary and other items.The staff here is also terrific! I was out for dinner when I spied the bowl I bought. I didn't want to carry it around with me all night so they were great on holding it for me to pick up the next day. And when I showed up, the bowl was already to go and the woman even remembered me from the night before.So if you're in the market for a one of a kind item, check out Phoenix Gallery! Great selection at reasonable prices!"

Weinberger Fine Art

★★★★★ 5 (3) • $$$$

"Kim is super cool and engaging. The gallery is not to be missed if you're in The Crossroads. She is a pleasure to speak with and I enjoy her artists immensely!"