Kansas City Connect

The 45th Annual Art Westport stands as one of Kansas City’s most cherished cultural traditions, drawing together the region’s finest artistic talents for a celebration that has become a cornerstone of the local creative calendar. This year’s event continues its legacy of showcasing exclusively Kansas City-regional artists, with organizers expecting more than 30,000 visitors to explore the diverse array of creative expressions on display. From paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media, Art Westport offers a broad view into the thriving artistic scene in Missouri.

What sets Art Westport apart from other regional art fairs is its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere that invites attendees of all ages to engage with art in meaningful ways. Beyond the impressive exhibition spaces, visitors can enjoy live music performances that provide a melodic backdrop to their art-viewing experience. Children’s activities ensure that even the youngest art enthusiasts can participate in creative exploration, while refreshment areas offering beverages and food options allow guests to make a full day of their visit. The event’s thoughtful organization creates an immersive environment where community and creativity seamlessly intertwine.

Among the distinguished artists featured at this year’s Art Westport is Linda Lighton, an internationally acclaimed ceramic artist and passionate arts advocate based in Kansas City. Lighton brings an impressive résumé to the event, having showcased her work in more than 60 solo exhibitions and participated in over 170 group shows across the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Her dedication to artistic excellence and advocacy has established her as one of the region’s most respected creative voices, making her presence at Art Westport particularly significant for attendees interested in experiencing world-class art with local roots.

Lighton’s work has earned places in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art in Kansas City, as well as international institutions in China, France, Germany, and beyond. Her impressive accolades include the Missouri Arts Award, the Award for Excellence in the Visual Arts and Education from the Kansas City Art Institute, and the Outstanding Achievement Award from the National Council for the Education of the Ceramic Arts. Alongside Lighton, Art Westport showcases dozens of other regional talents whose diverse approaches to artmaking collectively illustrate the depth and breadth of Kansas City’s artistic community.

The visitor experience at Art Westport consistently earns high marks from attendees, with reviews specifically praising the quality of participating artists, the event’s prime location, and the overall execution of this beloved cultural gathering. Mary Sikorski, a previous visitor, reflected that she “had a great experience. The location was great. Everything was well organized,” a sentiment echoed by many who appreciate the thoughtful curation and attention to detail that characterizes the event. The professional presentation of artworks in an accessible setting creates an environment where art enthusiasts of all levels can comfortably engage with creators and their works.

While the event itself receives glowing reviews, potential visitors should note practical considerations to maximize their experience. The event typically runs from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, though checking the official website for confirmed times is recommended. Some previous attendees have mentioned parking challenges, with one reviewer noting, “I didn’t like the parking fee, even in the daytime. Lack of parking was a big problem.” Attendees might consider alternative transportation options or arriving early to secure convenient parking. Despite these minor logistical considerations, the overwhelming consensus points to an exceptionally well-executed cultural event worth prioritizing on any Kansas City visitor’s itinerary.

Over its impressive 45-year history, Art Westport has transformed into much more than an annual art fair—it has become a vital element in the cultural fabric of Kansas City. The event serves as a crucial platform where emerging artists can gain visibility alongside established creators, fostering an artistic ecosystem that continues to strengthen with each passing year. By consistently showcasing regional talent, Art Westport has played an instrumental role in validating and elevating the work of countless local artists who might otherwise struggle to find audiences of this scale and enthusiasm.

Perhaps most significantly, Art Westport has succeeded in making art appreciation within the community accessible. By creating an approachable, non-intimidating environment where visitors can directly engage with artists, the event breaks down barriers that sometimes exist between creators and the public. This direct connection fosters meaningful conversations about artistic processes and inspirations, deepening community understanding and appreciation of creative work. As Art Westport celebrates its 45th anniversary, it stands as a testament to Kansas City’s enduring commitment to nurturing its creative community and ensuring that art remains accessible to all who seek it.