TODAY Kansas City – Summer 2024 by TodayKansasCity

AMG SL ROADSTER

Timeless, only faster.

Its racing legacy includes records for endurance that have themselves endured for decades. As a sports car for the open road, it’s won hearts and fulfilled dreams. It’s pioneered innovations in performance, safety and luxury. Like no other car, it’s truly timeless, and a true icon.

See the legend for yourself at Aristocrat Motors and Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City South.

Exciting Changes Are Yet to Come.

The automotive market is in constant change, and today is no different, even for a manufacturer like Mercedes-Benz that has been producing automobiles since 1886. Those constant changes are reflected in Tesla being only 14 years old by comparison.

Constant change is what has kept Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and other established manufacturers both vibrant and successful. Today that has created a move toward the first electric vehicles and, now, a pivot to hybrid-powered vehicles.

This move farther into the manufacture of hybrid-powered vehicles comes as automotive manufacturers experience a slowing demand on all-electric vehicles, because the necessary infrastructure has not been completed to make “EVs” mainstream vehicles.

As an auto group, we have been able to offer electric vehicles at almost every level, from the Volkswagen iD4 and the new ID Buzz retro van design, BMW i4, i5, i7, and iX sedans, Jaguar i-Pace small SUV, to the complete line of Mercedes-Benz EV sedans and SUVs, and the Porsche Taycan sedan and Macan SUV.

Our manufacturers are now moving to hybrids. Porsche has been there for several years, with a hybrid offering in the Panamera sedan and the Cayenne SUV; and Alfa Romeo just introduced the hybrid Tonale mid-sized SUV. We will soon see Mercedes-Benz, Maserati, and Land Rover follow suit.

As an example of this ability to “pivot,” many of our manufacturers are designing vehicle platforms that will be able to be built with hybrid, electric, or internal-combustion powertrains. This amazing new production technology will be seen in the BMW Neue Klasse and Neue KlasseX. These new models are outstanding examples of how nimble the industry has become in light of the demands placed upon it.

I have seen a great deal over the course of my years in the industry, and, just possibly, the best and the brightest ideas are yet to come.

Marion Battaglia, President

“I have seen a great deal over the course of my years in the industry, and, just possibly, the best and the brightest ideas are yet to come.”

Celebrate.

Welcome to another summer in Kansas City! Enjoy the variety: heat, rain, humidity, hot winds, cool breezes, balmy evenings on the patio, and the sound of cicadas as they make their seven-year reappearance.

How fortunate we are to be in a locale that offers such variety.

This issue of Today Kansas City celebrates this city and this region’s gifts to each of us and to the world.

I invite you to enjoy Anne Kniggendorf homage to the 90th anniversary of the Nelson-Atkins Museum. From the great Chinese collection to Impressionists, Shuttlecocks, and the most artistic of miniature golf courses, our museum is an institution to be proud of and to hold close.

Just a current note on the Nelson-Atkins Niki de Saint Phalle exhibit that is now on display: see it, experience it, and carry away from it the strength, resilience, and amazing creativity this self-taught and self-funded artist gave to the world. Experience, as the exhibition is so fittingly named, her Joy and Rebellion.

You can also be introduced to the artwork of Lisa Lalle, a Kansas City-based artist who has gained national recognition for her work, whether it is painting or sculpting. Her vision and her sense of space and messaging are phenomenal. Amani Skalacki’s article gives you a brief, tantalizing introduction to her work.

And finally, there is a nonprofit that I will say is so close to my heart and so amazing in its accomplishments: Harmony Project KC. Founded less than a decade ago, this project of teaching ensemble music to those that are without access to such teaching has not only flourished but has touched both the students and their families.

Harmony Project has nurtured children and provided hope for their families even during the pandemic. From the first classes housed at the Northeast Community Center to now going out to schools in the community, the Project has watched their students excel, not only in music but also in school and the community.

This is another Kansas City success story. Please read about it, enjoy their results, and maybe even personally support it through your gifts.

Have a safe summer, and find joy in all that is around you in our city!

SOAVE AUTOMOTIVE GROUP

MARION BATTAGLIA President

KEVIN KILLILEA Vice President

ANGIE LEWITZKE Controller

CHUCK DAVIS Service and Parts Director

KRIS NIELSEN Director of Sales and Manufacturer Relations/

General Manager Aristocrat Motors Topeka

ROBERT HELLWEG Marketing Director

LARRY MILLER Inventory Director

LINDSEY BENEFIELD Internet Manager

FERNANDO RICCI Finance & Insurance Director

DAVID HUGHES General Manager Aristocrat Lee's Summit

JORDAN SCHLOTZHAUER Human Relations Manager

HANNAH REESE Digital Manager

NEW VEHICLE SALES MANAGERS

DAVID ANDREWS Aristocrat Mercedes-Benz

KIRK WILLMS Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City

CHUCK OBRIEN Porsche Kansas City

JOE LEMBERGER Alfa Romeo and Maserati

JOE SIRNA Jaguar-Land Rover

RILEY HARMON Aristocrat Motors Topeka

PRE-OWNED MANAGERS

JK CORNELIUS Aristocrat Motors

DAN BOYER Mercedes-Benz Kansas City

MIKE REID Mercedes-Benz Kansas City

DAVID FISER Aristocrat Lee's Summit

SERVICE MANAGERS

CHARLES FRIEDMAN Aristocrat Mercedes-Benz | Maserati | Alfa Romeo

RODNEY PARKER Porsche Kansas City

KEVIN SMELL Jaguar-Land Rover of Merriam

ISAAC NICHOLS Aristocrat Motors Topeka

JOHN DOOLITTLE Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City

PARTS MANAGERS

BILL WELLS Aristocrat Motors

DAVID BARNES Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City

JOE LAWHEAD Jaguar-Land Rover of Merriam

KIP NASH Aristocrat Motors Topeka

ROBERT HELLWEG Editor | 913.677.7414

KATHRYN CREEL Creative Director

MARCI LINN Copyeditor

ALLYSON ELLIS Sales Director | 913.634.3838

AMANI SKALACKI Fashion Director

ALISON BARNES MARTIN Fashion Photographer

AUTOMOTIVE

Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Coupe: AMG’s Flagship is a Technological Tour de Force.

by Tom Strongman

A Feast for the Eyes: The Savoy at 21c.

Stewart Lane: When I was 14 years old, my father and I had a special birthday dinner: steak and lobster at The Savoy Grill. We entered the restaurant through dark wooden doors and faded red curtains to reach the hostess stand. As we slid into our seats in the historic booth number 4, where Bess and Harry Truman routinely dined, I was struck by the elegance of the dining room and the staff’s professionalism. For more than 120 years, The Savoy Grill has been creating memorable dining experiences and history in Kansas City. A complete remodel and update came in 2018 when 21c Museum Hotels relaunched the restaurant and the adjoining hotel and museum. Emily and I walked back through those dark wooden doors and into a revitalized dining room that flawlessly melded the elegance of the old with a distinctly modern look.

Emily Lane: After the impressive remodel, The Savoy has many of the standard features of the Old-World steakhouse amid contemporary features. The original wooden booths line the wall, lit by a small lamp and dark-green subway tile, creating intimate dining experiences that feel like your own private room. The main dining area is open, with low-backed couches and dark wood tables, allowing you to enjoy the atmosphere as well as the artwork on display, a glittering installation titled “Super Catcher, Vast Array,” by artist Brad Kahlhamer. Underlights cast a warming glow on the tile and brass rail under the bar where mixologists are busy shaking, stirring, and pouring incredible cocktails and a curated wine list.

SL: The bar menu has been created with a nod to history and nouveau, with vintage cocktails paired next to their modern “cousins.” I opted for a 1967 classic, the Saturn, a gin cocktail with passion fruit, allspice, clove, hazelnut, and citrus. This cocktail was shaken to perfection, slightly sweet and tangy, with lovely warming notes from the allspice and clove, and delightfully refreshing. Whether you’re looking for an old favorite or something new and adventurous, the wine and cocktail list will satisfy your tastes.

EL: Our server was incredibly knowledgeable about the history of the space, the vision of 21c, and the progressive work the company is doing, including ongoing special events. Following behind the “The Future is Female” art exhibition that was on display during our visit, 21c hosted “The Future is Female Dinner.” This dinner brought together four leading female chefs from 21c venues around the country. Ayden Bost, the current sous chef of The Savoy and the first femalesous in company history, created the opening course. The chefs were partnered with beverage pairings from women-owned wineries and distilleries highlighting women’s impact in the food and beverage world.

SL: The Savoy menu is ever-changing and our server directed us to the can-not-miss items that day. The carrot salad, a Chef Ayden creation, was unexpected and exceptional. Thin spirals of sweet carrots were lightly dressed with za’atar spice, fresh mint, dill, spicy crispy chickpeas, and fresh arugula. The flavors were bright and loud, texturally exciting, with a balance of sweetness and spice to compliment the fresh herbs and peppery arugula. We both have a

weakness for a great Caesar salad and The Savoy did not disappoint. It featured tender gem lettuce leaves, dark crunchy croutons, Parmesan, and an anchovy-forward Caesar dressing. For us, anchovies are the make or break of a great Caesar, and The Savoy hit the perfect balance. Each bite was crisp, refreshing, salty, crunchy, creamy, and cheesy.

EL: The Savoy keeps a limited menu but remains true to its historic steakhouse roots. Offerings such as lamb, beef, duck, and chicken are rounded out with entrees of halibut, wild boar, and mushrooms. There is even, to quote our server, “one the best burgers you will ever eat” on the menu topped with American cheese, mortadella, and Pommery mustard. We opted for the eight-ounce petite filet and the 14-ounce Cedar River Ranch ribeye.

SL: The filet was a beautiful medium edge-to-edge and the ribeye was beautifully charred and equally well cooked. However, it was a difficult choice when considering the Campo Lindo

chicken with morel mushrooms, green garlic, Yukon gold potatoes, and wilted spinach, or the Alaskan halibut with tender artichokes, crisp bacon, snap peas, and roasted fennel. The steaks were served ala carte so we completed the meal with the Lion’s Mane mushrooms and duck-fat French fries with a garlic aioli. The mushrooms were unique and delicious, roasted and seared, and then glazed with white shoyu and yuzu for a texture and flavor that was almost meaty. The fries, a perfect complement to steak, had a crispy exterior, pillowy soft interior, and the perfect amount of salt.

EL: Spring was in the air as we looked over the dessert menu. A white chocolate verrine (think tiny terrine glass) was decadent and light. Cherry blossom syrup on the bottom, a matcha crumble on top, and a smooth white chocolate mousse in between created a delectable mixture of flavors and textures. A pink macaron with a dark-chocolate filling perched right on top was my first bite! The crème fraiche panna cotta was topped with a

quenelle of strawberry ice cream and surrounded by a pool of a thin strawberry and rhubarb sauce. Candied walnuts dusted with crystalized mint completed the dish as a perfect expression of the season. I’d be remiss not to mention an important component of The Savoy at 21c experience, which is, of course, the museum itself. When you visit, be sure to save time to explore the galleries, which are free to the public. The Future is Female exhibition is on

Warm woods, worn leather, and textured fabrics span the bar, dining room, and outdoor patio at Blu Hwy.

their menu without leaving the city limits.

view through March 2025. Come enjoy impactful art, an elegant environment, and an iconic dining experience at The Savoy at 21c. The Savoy is located at 219 W. 9th Street in downtown Kansas City. They are open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and they offer brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Reservations are recommended and can be made at thesavoykc.com or by calling 816-443-4260.

Blu Hwy, located in the South Plaza area at 5070 Main Street in Kansas City, is open Monday through Friday for lunch, happy hour, and dinner, and Saturday and Sunday for brunch, happy hour, and dinner. More information and reservations can be found at BluHwy.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Emily and Stewart Lane are Kansas City natives who have an affection for hospitality. Stewart, a former executive chef, makes his career in business development and loves to cook for friends and family; Emily is a communications strategist with an arts background. Along with their daughters, Evie and Catharine, they live a life filled with food, culture, and creativity.

Emily and Stewart Lane are Kansas City natives who have an affection for hospitality. Stewart, a former executive chef, makes his career with SMG and loves to cook for friends and family, and Emily is a marketing communications manager with an arts background. Along with their daughters, Evie and Catharine, they live a life filled with food, culture, and creativity.

Colors Over Water by Mary Johnston | 36” x 48” original oil painting on sand textured canvas

Harmony Project KC.

Walk through the doors of the Northeast Community Center on Wabash on a Saturday morning and you’re likely to hear a beautiful ensemble of classical music. This isn’t where the Kansas City Symphony practices (though you might find members there) but rather a diverse group of young musicians practicing together and working toward a brighter future.

Kyla Pitts-Zevin, executive director of Harmony Project KC, has served the organization for six years and led it for three, and she has watched it blossom in that time. Harmony Project, which serves to support families and prepare students for higher education through music and a culturally relevant lens, started with 32 participants in 2015. The number of participants has since grown to 360, with 100 on the waitlist at any given time.

Of course, there are many approaches to family/community-building and college and career readiness. When asked why her organization has focused on music, Kyla says, “It was selected very intentionally.” Citing research by Dr. Nina Kraus at Northwestern, she claims “students who learn music at a young age have a forever impact on their brain –increased numeracy, literacy, the ability to hear and focus through everyday noise – and we’re seeing that bear out right here.”

Truly, the outcomes of Harmony Project KC (which is approaching its 10th year of operation) speak for themselves. The program serves primarily children of color and low-income families, as well as a majority of English-language-learning families. Students participate for a whopping average of seven years, and 100 percent of students have graduated high school. Student academic performance has improved across the board, and 95 percent of graduating seniors are accepted to and attend a two- or four-year college. Of the initial cohort of 10 students to participate in the project and graduate high school, nine are currently attending a higher-education institution, with many benefitting from full-ride scholarships.

Kyla recounts a success story close to her heart about a student currently attending a prestigious midwestern university. “I remember her coming in and feeling shy and

“Harmony Project focuses not only on the young musicians, but on the families.”

unsure of herself, not sure what her path was going to be or how to find her voice. She found it through violin. She gained confidence through experience, became a leader in her chamber music group.”

Students don’t only excel in making music, either. “I saw her find that voice for advocacy – she’s studying to become an immigration attorney, to come right back here and help individuals who look like her and who share her family’s story,” says Kyla.

Harmony Project KC offers individual music education combined with ensemble rehearsals and performances, but that’s not all. Staff members provide music therapy, a “path to college” program to help children with a lack of access and opportunity (something Kyla reflects on several times) explore options and achieve their goals, classes for families ranging from nutrition to English language literacy, and wraparound “care services” with area partners.

The board and donors also provide financial relief to the families. Students who participate for at least three years and meet

some other basic criteria are guaranteed a $2,000 scholarship per year for four years of higher education, with the potential for other service- and music-based scholarships. The board and donors also provide funds for an emergency assistance fund for struggling families, as well as food distribution. Harmony Project focuses not only on the young musicians, but on the families.

“We know our families well. When they apply for assistance, we already know them and are here to help,” Kyla says with pride.

Of course, those who have learned an instrument know that mastering the art takes a lot of hard work. So what keeps these students and families coming back day after day, week after week, and year after year?

“They’re bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at seven [the age students can join the project],” says Kyla. “They’re excited to be here. Then this really interesting thing happens around middle school. They say ‘oh, I don’t want to go, I want to sleep in, I want to be on my phone.’”

“They push through. Their parents push them through.

From the moment you set foot in the 2024 Jaguar F-PACE you can feel it. The balance of a welcoming atmosphere filled with a distinct and powerful aura. From the signature craftsmanship to the sliding panoramic roof, the interior creates a mesmerizing presence that draws you in for a closer look. While dramatic proportions, distinguished lines and laser etched monogram detailing unique to Jaguar add a distinct flair to its exterior profile. All culminating in the perfect fusion of next-level technology and a powerful, yet lavish ride awaiting your every command.

We push them through,” she says with a laugh, “and they are so glad they stayed. It’s incredibly transformational, and they are so glad to have a community that’s been with them every step of their childhood.”

“One day it could be that they’re going to perform the national anthem at the Royals game. Another day it could be seeing their friends. Another day, their parents just made them do it.”

The 900-percent increase in participation and attendance speaks volumes to the value that these students who lack in access and opportunity find in the Harmony Project.

Kansas Citians looking to get involved can volunteer as mentors, substitute teachers, or day-to-day volunteers, as well as donate

to the program by becoming a “music maker” with a $120 annual donation, which grants VIP access to performances. “We’re at a critical point to expand our support,” Kyla says. “We regularly have 100 kids on the waiting list, and we can’t afford to serve them all.”

So what’s on the horizon for Kyla, her team, and the 300-plus students learning and performing through Harmony Project KC?

“This year will be the 10th ‘first day,’” Kyla says, “and I hope it’s a year we can celebrate with the community by bringing our music to the forefront across the city. We would love if people would reach out, come to the community center, see it in action … we can’t do what we do without our partners and advocates in the city.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Though originally from a small town outside of Kansas City, Kansas, Matt Lancaster lives in Lawrence with his wife, son, dog, and cats, where he works as a program director for the University of Kansas School of Business.

“Everyone has insecurities or something small they don’t like about the way they look. It’s the greatest gift of my profession to see those same people bursting with confidence after correcting their insecurities. They just seem brighter, happier. It’s something that could be unnoticeable to anyone else. It’s about the way they feel personally about themselves and the way the project themselves. That’s the part of it I love the most –changing their self-confidence, changing their attitude through great work.”

DR. JOSEPH V. CANNOVA PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

A BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON, PROVIDING A FULL SPECTRUM OF PLASTIC SURGERY SERVICES, FOCUSING LARGELY ON COSMETIC PROCEDURES—BODY, BREAST AND FACELIFTS.

MERCEDES-AMG GT 63 COUPE

AMG’s Flagship is a TourTechnological de Force.

Sitting in the showroom, the light gray Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Coupe squats on 21-inch forged split-spoke wheels that show off the massive brakes and bright yellow calipers. When the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 cranks to life the rumbling exhaust leaves no doubt about this car’s performance intentions.

Once it was out of the showroom, I pocketed the keys and slid into the heavily bolstered seat. This raucous rascal is a serious sports coupe but I head out gingerly because it only has 18 miles on the odometer. New cars need to be treated carefully during break-in so full-throttle blasts will have to wait for another day and more miles. For now, however, a hefty poke on the throttle delivers more than ample acceleration even when keeping the revs far below red line. The nine-speed transmission snaps off shifts with precision and the adjustable suspension yields flat cornering without sacrificing ride quality.

AMG, the performance division of Mercedes-Benz, came into being when Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, engineers at Mercedes-Benz, built racing engines at A frecht’s house in the early 1960s. In 1967 the duo founded the Aufrecht Melcher Grossaspach (AMG) engineering firm, focusing on designing, testing, and developing racing engines. They were so successful that in 1999, Mercedes invested in AMG and then took total ownership in 2005. The GT Coupe is the brand’s flagship.

This is the second generation of the AMG GT Coupe and it comes in two models: the GT 55 and GT 63. Both have the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine. The GT 55 puts out 469 horsepower and sprints to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds and has a top track speed of 183 mph. The GT 63 has a whopping 577 horsepower, hits 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and has a top track speed of 196 mph.

Prices start at $134,900 for the GT 55 and $175,900 for the GT 63. I drove a GT 63 whose sticker price was $201,710 due to options such as carbon fiber trim, Burmeister sound system, 21-inch split spoke alloy wheels, front axle lift

system, fixed panorama roof, driver assistance package, night package, and Alpine Grey paint.

AMG prides itself on the “One Man, One Engine” principle that dates to the company’s founding, and, consequently, each AMG engine is assembled entirely by hand by one person at its plant in Afffalterbach, Germany.

The cabin is configured for 2+2 seating but the rear seats are suitable for occupants “less than five feet tall,” according to press materials. Kids, pets, or briefcases, in other words. An 11.9-inch vertical touchscreen display that looks like a tablet sits atop the center console. Its size gives a big map, but it also is used to control various vehicle functions. The 12.3-inch gauge display can be configured in a variety of ways. The test car was equipped with the optional headup display.

The front bucket seats are electronically adjustable and have good lateral support with even more heavily bolstered sports seats as an option. I think they would be uncomfortable in daily driving but good for track use. The rear seats fold down and the rear hatch has hands-free opening.

There aren’t many European sports coupes so it’s only natural to compare the Mercedes-AMG GT coupe to one of its natural rivals, the Porsche 911. The cars are visually similar and comparable in size, although the GT coupe has a 10-inch longer wheelbase due largely to its front-engine configuration and longer hood. The Porsche has the engine in the rear.

Depending on which model is used for comparison, their performance is also comparable. The top-line GT 63’s zero-to-60 time is about one second quicker than the basic Porsche Carrera S. Unless you’re at a racetrack, the difference in acceleration times is pretty much academic. Pricing, depending on the model and options, is surprisingly comparable as well. I drove a Carrera 4S last year and it had a sticker price of $171,740. This second-generation Mercedes AMG GT Coupe is the top model from

Mercedes AMG, and it features a highly dynamic driving experience as well as enhanced comfort and practicality for everyday use. Technology, such as active ride control with active roll stabilization, rear-axle steering, and active aerodynamics, is key to its performance potential. The driver can select from six different settings.

Active ride control keeps the car level even in sharp turns and the rear-axle steering works by having the rear wheels steer in the opposite direction to the fronts below 60 miles per hour and in the same direction as the fronts above 60 mph. This contributes to quick steering response at lower speeds and better stability at high speed.

fine-tune the aerodynamics and arrive at a chassis that has a curb weight of just over 3,300 pounds.

The carbon-fiber chassis makes use of underbody aerodynamics that help keep the top of the car sleek and sensual with rounded contours that echo classic design. The nose contains a grille that is recognizably Maserati complete with the Trident emblem.

All-wheel drive enhances traction in all kinds of weather but also enhances high-performance driving. The transition from rear-wheel to all-wheel drive and vice versa takes place continuously, based on a sophisticated matrix that integrates the intelligent control into the overall vehicle system architecture. An electromechanically controlled clutch variably connects the permanently driven rear axle to the front axle allowing a torque distribution from 50:50 front to pure rearwheel drive.

car, with functionality and visibility paramount.” The central tunnel is clad with carbon fiber and only carries the switches that are necessary.

Driver assistance systems use sensors, cameras, and radar to monitor the traffic and the vehicle’s surroundings. These systems can intervene at lightning speed when needed.

Upward-opening “butterfly” doors pivot forward to so the driver and passenger can get into the cabin with a minimum of interference. The cabin is understated, and driver focused. The interior shapes are simple, with few sharp corners and the upholstery and interior materials are black to prevent reflections on the steep sloping windscreen. Plus, black lends a feeling of understated elegance. There are two LCD screens in the instrument panel, one in front of the driver for gauges and one in the center above the console. Maserati emphasizes that “everything is laid out just like the cockpit of a racing

Active aerodynamics such as shutters in the grille and front and rear spoilers also contribute to high-speed stability. The active suspension can raise the front of the car 1.2 inches to negotiate driveways or speed bumps, and, cleverly, the system talks to the car’s GPS so it remembers when raising the front is necessary. That’s very handy when pulling into your drive every day or crossing a speed bump in your work parking lot.

Maserati and Sabelt collaborated on the design and creation of the MC20 seats. A composite structural shell, equipped with power adjustments and lumbar system, represents the essence of the MC20 project: sportiveness at a high quality and performance level.

The MC20’s Sonus faber audio embodies the translation of its name, “handmade sound” that illustrates how both brands desire to pair innovative technologies and skillful craftsmanship.

To get a feel for the GT’s racetrack capabilities in professional hands, check out the YouTube video of Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes’ seven-time world champion, driving celebrity Kendall Jenner around the Miami Formula One track in a screaming yellow GT coupe.

Committing the MC20 to production is a bold statement from Maserati about how it sees itself, both today and in the future when an all-electric version will be available. That forward vision is necessary for a company that has such a long and storied history.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / PHOTOGRAPHER

Tom Strongman has a degree in photojournalism from the University of Missouri and was formerly the director of photography and then the automotive editor of The Kansas City Star. Tom, a member of the Missouri Press Association Photojournalism Hall of Fame, has written about and photographed cars for more than three decades.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR / PHOTOGRAPHER

26 | TODAY KANSAS CITY | SUMMER 2022

A City Treasure Turns 90.

At the outset of the United States’ involvement in WWII, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art – then the William Rockhill Nelson Gallery of Art and Mary Atkins Museum of Fine Art –was only eight years old.

Yet, the institution, which celebrated its 90th birthday in December 2023, was already so well respected that coastal museums and private collectors wrote to ask for help.

“They asked if they could send some of their collections to us for safekeeping, which they did,” says Tara Laver, the Nelson-Atkins’ senior archivist. “So, for a lot of the war, we provided a safe haven for art from other museums, and the bonus of that was that we were allowed to display it as well.”

Laver says that at that time almost all of the galleries on the first and second floors of the west side of the museum were empty; that’s where the visiting art was stored for the duration of the war.

Though this particular development hadn’t been part of the plan, delivering the world’s finest art to Kansas Citians was Nelson’s vision from the start. For several decades before the 1933 opening of the now-iconic building, Nelson housed his collection of European reproductions at the Kansas City Public Library, then at 9th and Locust, in the Western Gallery of Art. Jason Roe, the library’s digital history specialist, notes that the museum was part of Nelson’s “trifecta of ideas for uplifting the culture of Kansas City.” The other two were The Kansas City Star and the parks and boulevards movement.

“In 1897,” Roe writes in his forthcoming book, Kansas City’s Public Library: Empowering the

Community for 150 Years, “this vision came to fruition as 50,000 people visited the public library to see his collection of paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The collection grew rapidly in the following years, doubling the number of reproductions and adding hundreds of new pieces. The Public Library Quarterly proclaimed the gallery’s ‘importance for purposes of serious and systematic study as well as for casual inspection and incidental enjoyment.’”

In November and December 2023, the museum celebrated this legacy with a series of events and, in March, the unveiling of a

kinetic sculpture, Grand HexaNet by Paris-based sculptor Elias Crespin, high above the Bloch lobby. The sculpture’s 90 perpetually moving red aluminum tubes symbolize the past 90 years as well as the “dynamic possibilities” of the next 90, according to the museum’s website.

More remarkable still, the museum’s continuation of Nelson’s original vision of providing art and beauty to the entire city is further carried out every day not only with free admission – unusual at a world-class museum – but through a diverse offering of programming for children and adults.

MEAN MULE POMEGRANATE GIN FIZZ

Makes 1 cocktail

2 oz Mean Mule Agave Gin

1 ½ oz POM 100% pomegranate juice

½ oz fresh-squeezed lemon juice

¾ oz simple syrup

1 egg white

1 oz soda water

Garnish with rosemary sprig

Instructions:

Combine gin, pomegranate juice, lemon juice, simple syrup, and an egg white in a cocktail shaker and shake like you mean it for 15 sec onds (no ice). Then add ice and shake like you really, really mean it for 30 seconds until cold. Strain the drink into a glass and gently top with soda water as the egg white rises to the top. Then add the rosemary sprig garnish.

Jenna Spencer, the museum’s film and event planner, cites the Tivoli Theatre as a way that the Nelson-Atkin’s is presenting yet another art form to patrons, further expanding their reach into the community.

botanicals in about 100 combinations before they found a recipe.

The theater had been a staple in Kansas City for nearly 40 years when its Westport location closed in 2019, reopening not long after in the museum’s 500-seat Atkins Auditorium.

What they landed on does include juniper – for legal purposes – but also white peppercorn, cardamom, lemon zest, coriander, and, mostly strikingly, persimmon.

“We had an enormous persimmon tree on our property,” Meg says about her childhood home near Hermann, Missouri.

For Juneteenth, Spencer says, they’ll show an Alvin Ailey film, “so combining the Tivoli and our cultural festivals. We’re showing the Niki de Saint Phalle documentary, as the featured exhibit opens [and runs through July 21], so we’re going to connect the films with the arts and what’s going on in the community.”

make persimmon jelly,” Meg says.

many are artists themselves, which also gives the institution a unique place in the community. In 2021, the organization launched the KC Art Now initiative, which works to highlight local artists for nine to 12 months, affirming the mission to not only show global artists but those living and working right here.

Moving forward, the Evanses plan to add another agricultural element to their business: growing their own agave. They’ve purchased 40 acres in Arizona and will plant this coming December, though, Jeff says, it’ll be nearly seven years before they’ll be able to harvest and distill their crop.

The current KC Art Now exhibition, “A Layered Presence,” on display through Sept. 8, 2024, features the work of 22 Kansas City artists with ties to Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Colombia, Peru, and Uruguay.

She says they wanted to bring in elements from their farm and heritage and even experimented with cornhusks and other things that grew all around them.

A full schedule of free festivals and activities is listed under the Do & Learn tab at nelson-atkins.org.

“Persimmon just really came out with something that we loved and have good memories around. Grandma used to

Laver points out that of the 331 employees of the museum,

Meg says the goal is to be a single-estate manufacturer. “Every part of the process of being single estate is important. So, single estate means from dirt to bottle, it is all on us.”

If it takes off, theirs will be the first large-scale agave farm in the United States, which sounds not only like great bragging rights for Mean Mule, but for Kansas City.

“We do a lot of comparison to other major museums around the country and the world to make sure we’re on track,” Spencer says. “The fact that we’re a free museum is huge. It’s just the biggest deal that anyone can walk in and look at art from 2,000 years ago to a year ago, such a broad range of mediums and context. It’s just huge.”

ABOUT

THE AUTHOR

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Anne Kniggendorf is a staff writer/editor at the Kansas City Public Library. She's the author of Secret Kansas City and Kansas City Scavenger, and a freelance writer for various local and national publications. Visit her website: annekniggendorf.com.

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Kansas City: The Sports Architecture Capital of the World.

Wembley Stadium. Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Yankee Stadium. Even native Kansas Citians are surprised to learn that Kansas City-area architecture firms are responsible for many of the world’s most iconic sports venues. Chances are, when you flip on the TV to catch a game or make your way to a sporting event in any given city, you’ll be experiencing a thoughtfully designed space that can be attributed to designers, architects, planners, and engineers from right here in Kansas City.

Tom Waggoner, a Kansas-City-based sports architect, entrepreneur, and consultant, recently published Designed in Kansas City: How Kansas City Became the Sports Architecture Capital of the World. Inspired by the work of his colleagues and peers, Waggoner set out to tell the untold story of how Kansas City grew into an international hub for sports facility design. Through dozens of interviews over the course of five years, his book honors the building type pioneers who set out to develop an emerging, and quite challenging, building typology.

And you don’t have to look much further than our football stadium and ballpark to learn the industry’s origin story. The development of Kauffman Stadium and Arrowhead Stadium in the late ’60s and early ’70s – known at the time as the Jackson County Sports Complex – set the industry on a new path, with much credit going to late Kansas City architect Ron Labinski. A young designer leading the Arrowhead Stadium project, he saw an opportunity to move away from the simple, multipurpose venues of years past and, instead, create single-purpose spaces that celebrate the fan experience and

to immerse attendees in the game. Understanding the complexities of each sport and how everything from the field of play to their fans can vary drastically, he identified an opportunity. While working at Kivett & Meyers, the firm responsible for the Jackson County Sports Complex, he analyzed each professional sports team’s lease terms, noting when they would be looking for a renovation or new venue and effectively forecasting a building boom. He then co-founded Devine, James, Labinski & Meyers as he worked to build a roster of professional sports clients. Several years later, he left to join HNTB, taking an experienced team and deep relationships with him. This move paved the way for many of the modern powerhouse architecture firms in sports – HNTB included.

In the early ’80s, Labinski again saw opportunity for growth and

took his team to HOK, one of the nation’s largest architecture firms. At HOK, he built an autonomous, sports-specific practice, serving clients across the globe from a central location in Kansas City. The practice, which through a buyout in the late 2000s eventually became Populous, helped solidify the validity of the emerging sports architecture industry and gave Labinski the resources to grow – and to compete. And compete they did! Competition emerged in the likes of HNTB and Ellerbe Beckett (now AECOM) and the city quickly became a destination for design talent looking to work on these high-profile projects. With the completion of projects like Oriole Park at Camden Yards in 1993, HOK Sport (now Populous) built momentum for an onslaught of sports architecture projects that has changed the fan experience across the globe.

Wembley Stadium

Camden Yards

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Today, Kansas City has remained the epicenter for sports architecture. Seventy percent of current NFL stadiums, 80 percent of MLB ballparks, and 90 percent of NBA/NHL arenas were designed by Kansas City firms. Populous, HOK (who reentered the sports market following Populous’ buyout through the strategic acquisition of 360 Architecture), HNTB, AECOM, and an impressive number of small firms call Kansas City home. In recent years, large global firms like Gensler, who are looking to expand their presence in the sports architecture market have opened Kansas City outposts to compete

for talent and work. More than 600 architects in Kansas City work daily on the building type, with the firms collectively raking in more than $1.5 billion annually in design fees. The growing industry – which started with Labinski’s research and commitment to a better fan experience – now equates to spending topping $14 billion each year by professional and collegiate sports teams. These early pioneers and forward-thinking leaders across the city have built a legacy that transformed how the world experiences sports. It’s a legacy that all Kansas Citians should be proud of.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Annie Merrill is a public relations and communications strategist with extensive experience telling compelling stories that impact a business’ bottom line. Over the course of her career, she’s worked with designers, architects, engineers, planners, sports teams and commercial real estate executives to position their people and projects in front of high-impact audiences.

Interior of Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, for MLS Soccer

As the heat descends upon the region, Midwesterners will inevitably begin looking for respite from what’s sure to be another long, hot, humid summer. The path of least resistance would take you straight north, but consider looking northwest this summer to experience the natural beauty, eclectic neighborhoods, and unparalleled experience that are Seattle, Washington.

Let’s not pretend that 1,500 miles is a simple hop, skip, or jump from Kansas City. After all, as the crow flies, a Kansas Citian visiting Seattle is nearly the equivalent of a Parisian visiting Moscow. Tucked up away from the rest of the contiguous United States,

the nation’s northwestern-most major metro area might not seem that different from the Paris of the Plains, but its culture, landscape, and cityscape are enough to scratch the itch for any travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, provided you plan ahead.

From the bustling alleys of Pike Place Market to the serene shores of Salmon Bay, every corner of this Pacific Northwest gem is worthy of exploration and appreciation. A testament to the city’s rich history and diversity, set aside some time to take a drive through its unique neighborhoods to admire the city’s

A Journey Through the Emerald City.

distinctive architectural styles, ranging from elegant Victorian homes to sleek modernist mansions.

Pike Place Market, a historic landmark nestled in the heart of downtown, captivates visitors with its colorful florals, fresh seafood, and artisanal crafts. Established in 1907, this world-renowned marketplace is a sensory feast, and is home to the original Starbucks. The nearby waterfront district offers picturesque views of Elliott Bay and its many family-friendly attractions, including the Seattle Aquarium. Just north of downtown in the Lower Queen Anne neighborhood, you’ll find the 605-foot-tall

Space Needle, built for the 1962 World’s Fair and perhaps the most famous landmark in the region. In its shadow, the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum features stunning glass art installations by artist Dale Chihuly, whose works you’ll also find in Kansas City’s Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. Head east from there to Capitol Hill, known for its walkability and filled with hip cafes, vibrant shopping districts, and buzzing nightlife. Crossing Salmon Bay immediately north of downtown, you’ll find Fremont and Ballard, two of Seattle’s most renowned neighborhoods. Fremont is defined by an eclectic vibe and quirky public

“Of course, Kansas City has its fair share of farmer’s markets, restaurants, and travel destinations. What we lack in comparison to Seattle is open water and a strong maritime scene. Fortunately for residents and visitors alike, getting out on the bay is as affordable as it is convenient.”

art, vibrant street life, and a thriving arts scene. The area is also home to many of Seattle’s floating neighborhoods: row upon row of houseboats dot Salmon Bay’s shorts, while droves of seaplanes take off from and land on Lake Union. Seattle’s quirky maritime culture sprawls north of Fremont to Ballard, where you’ll find block after block of boutiques, breweries, and eateries. Once a fishing village, it’s now home to the lively Ballard Farmers Market, a worthwhile way to spend a Sunday morning if local produce, sundries, and food stalls are a normal part of your travel bucket list.

Of course, Kansas City has its fair share of farmer’s markets, restaurants, and travel destinations. What we lack in comparison to Seattle is open water and a strong maritime scene. Fortunately for residents and visitors alike, getting out on the bay is as affordable as it is convenient: Seattle’s ferry system is among the largest in the world. If you find yourself downtown with an afternoon to kill, hop on a ferry to Bainbridge Island and immerse yourself in the small town’s idyllic charm. Take a leisurely stroll through the quaint downtown area, stop into one of its many boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, and grab a lazy lunch at Harbour Public House. Pro tip: grab a beer and the fish and chips and overstay your welcome on the patio overlooking the Bainbridge Marina. Of course, getting there (and heading back) is half the fun: the ferry is the best way to take in breathtaking views of the Seattle skyline, so make sure your camera is ready. Or better yet,

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put your phone away and read a book during the 40-minute ride back to the city.

That said, you don’t need to leave dry land to enjoy the outdoors in Seattle. Immediately south of Ballard is Discovery Park, Seattle’s largest urban park. Lace up your hiking boots and embark on the loop trail that winds through lush forests, meadows, and driftwood-adorned beaches. The 4.5-mile loop of the park offers astonishing views of Puget Sound, the Olympic Mountains, and the 140-year-old West Point Lighthouse. After your hike, spread out a picnic blanket on the expansive lawn and savor your finds from Pike Place or the Ballard Farmers Market.

If you’re looking to find yourself further off the beaten path, head southeast to Cougar Mountain Regional Wildland Park. Nestled in the lush wilderness just outside of Seattle, you’ll find miles of scenic and serene trails, from leisurely strolls through old-growth forests to challenging treks to panoramic viewpoints, including Coal Creek Falls Trail, which ends at one of the region’s many waterfalls.

As you explore the eclectic tapestry of Seattle, you’ll discover a city brimming with creativity, diversity, and a deep appreciation for its natural surroundings. Whether you’re savoring the flavors of Pike Place Market, meandering through the streets of Ballard and Fremont, or basking in the beauty of Discovery Park, each experience offers a glimpse into the soul of this dynamic city.

Seattle’s known for many things. It’s inarguably one of the world’s foremost tech hubs. We all know about Starbucks, but its smaller local offerings go toe-to-toe

“As you explore the eclectic tapestry of Seattle, you’ll discover a city brimming with creativity, diversity, and a deep appreciation for its natural surroundings ... each experience offers a glimpse into the soul of this dynamic city.”

with the coffee giant. Nearby Mount Rainier is the most topographically prominent mountain in the Lower 48. It’s the birthplace of grunge, the home of the Fremont troll, and the setting of many truly iconic films.

Beyond all these accolades, the city is teeming with astonishing

landscapes, memorable bites, and genuinely wonderful people. In Kansas City, we hear a lot about “Midwest Nice.” But if you find yourself in the right spot with the right people in Seattle, you’ll find that the city opens its arms to visitors with every bit of warmth, sincerity, and pride as our own hometown.

ABOUT THE WRITER & PHOTOGRAPHER

Anna Petrow and Patrick Mulvihill call Kansas City home, but they have been known to find themselves off the beaten path. Born and raised in Kansas City, Anna is a culinary and lifestyle photographer with a knack for letting her camera lens guide her travels. Patrick is a writer, an enthusiastic travel companion, and a proud St. Louis native who uses each new trip as an excuse to eat five meals a day.

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IN THE LAST FEW YEARS…

HOW HAS HOME AND OR FAMILY LIFE CHANGED?

HOW HAS YOUR WORK OR VOLUNTEER WORLD ALTERED?

HOW HAS YOUR SOCIAL CIRCLE CHANGED? IS IT THE SAME, SMALLER, OR EXPANDED?

DO YOU TRAVEL ABOUT THE SAME AMOUNT? LESS? MORE?

WHAT DID YOU GIVE UP OR STOP DOING?

WHAT CHANGE HAS BEEN WELCOME?

WHAT CHANGE DO YOU REGRET?

WHAT FEELS “BACK TO NORMAL” AGAIN?

When change is possible, needed, sometimes even urgent, what do you typically do? Are you quick to decide? Contemplative? Perhaps extremely thoughtful and cautious – a need to think about and evaluate your process rather than take quick and immediate action?

We vary widely in our approach to change – with family, with friends, and colleagues – and we seldom take time – or have the need – for reflecting on how different we are from those we live with and work with. However, that can change when we encounter conflict in a decision that involves the thoughts, feelings, and preferences of others. Regardless, it’s helpful to know, to explore, and to accept your own process…because it’s frequently hard to not be influenced by those close to us. Discovering, honoring, and embracing your own way of managing change is always best, especially when negotiations are challenging, and especially when the negotiations are with family, colleagues, and close friends. The skill needed: the ability to express your own feelings and needs directly and openly and listen carefully and reflectively to the feelings and needs of others. That’s not so easy to do!

A significant obstacle is our frequent need – or our wish – that others will agree with us. Consequently, managing differences is, or can be, a “major roadblock.” And challenges we might have historically found manageable have been harder – dramatically harder for some – in the past few years. From the pandemic to political discord, we’ve faced numerous obstacles in our ability to talk openly, negotiate, and understand others and ourselves. For most of us, life has presented at least a few big challenges during the past few years. When major changes, shifts, or life-altering circumstances increase in both number and intensity, it’s truly helpful to reflect and consider “how much has changed?” And how much would you still like to change if you could, right now! Consider a brief review, assessment, and reflection. Even if your first thought is “no,” give it a moment and think back over the last few years.

TIP...

WHAT CHANGES WOULD YOU MAKE NOW IF YOU COULD?

MAKE A LIST AND RANK IN ORDER OF WHAT’S MOST SIGNIFICANT AND LEAST SIGNIFICANT. REFLECT ON WHAT FEELS THE MOST IMPACTFUL. WHAT HAS MORE OR LESS MEANING OR IMPACT ON YOU OR POSSIBLY ON OTHERS?

Most of us find easily observable differences – with those we live with and work with. So a bottom line question is how “different” do you feel when you reflect on comparisons?

Imagine time away where reflection is the primary objective – with a journal and pen close by for recording thoughts and feelings. Writing with pen on paper creates a valuable connection to the brain. However, if you feel better with a laptop, go for it.

For a simple start, a first step if you’ve never tried meditation, is simple breathing exercises. The most simple, and you might try it now, just as an experiment, is the following exercise: Breathe in to the count of four, hold your breath to the count of seven and release very slowly to the count of eight … release through pursed lips, like preparing to whistle. Repeat this four times. Then do it again. And take a minute to pay attention to how you feel.

Meditation techniques range from simple breathing exercises like this to silent repetition of a mantra (a word or phrase) to listening to guided instructions for deep relaxation and resting the mind.

To what end? When the mind is allowed to truly quiet down … especially when applied after long term, persistent stress … feelings and thoughts emerge that are truly helpful to each of us as we contemplate where we’ve been, where we are now, and where we want to venture forward today and in the future.

Most of us find easily observable differences – with those we live with and work with. So a bottom line question is how “different” do you feel when you reflect on comparisons? We are perhaps obviously both similar and different from those we live with, work with, and see regularly in our friendship and volunteer circles. Consequently it helps to acknowledge differences – ideally with acceptance, grace, and understanding … especially with those we interact with on a daily or regular basis.

One important issue or feeling we frequently truly need – or hope, and maybe even cross our fingers over – is that others will agree with us. And some people are capable of moving beyond being hopeful to demanding compliance. If you’ve tried that approach, you know it doesn’t work – or at least you know it creates conflict, resistance, and sometimes relationship damage.

You may confirm doing exactly what you are doing is great; and you may reflect on new things, options for going forward, or something right in between. It’s simply finding your own renewed sense of direction. And if you discover all you need is to stare at the water, mountains, or woods and rest somewhere other than the comfort of your home, own it. Meditation can simply affirm we are on the right path. Or, it can open hearts, minds, eyes, to something new, slightly new, or dramatically different. Meditation, retreating, allows whatever to surface. Meditation also helps with healing. Far too many have experienced tragic loss during this difficult time and both emotional and physical healing is needed. Understanding what you think, feel, want, and need is important to determine what changes are both desirable and possible. The more you reflect, meditate, and write about what you think and feel, the more clarity you’ll achieve. The challenge is to make these two difficult years have a positive outcome when and where possible.

Consequently, managing differences is, or can be, a big deal. The challenges we might have been easy with were altered dramatically in recent years – from politics to the pandemic, we’ve faced numerous obstacles in our ability to talk openly, negotiate, and understand ourselves and others. Obviously, life has presented challenges and changes for most of us.

For many, even our face-to-face time with others has changed, even though life appears to be quite quickly shifting back to normal – judged by large gatherings pretty much everywhere. One question to ask yourself is are you comfortable with your decisions and choices day to day? Have you made any significant changes in your work and/or social life that have helped? Or perhaps created conflict and difficulty?

If you’ve been back to normal and navigating change long enough to think these questions and reflections don’t seem needed, try at least a few minutes to check in with yourself. And if, indeed, you’re navigating the past few years quite successfully, take some time to check in with the people in your life, and I suggest a reflective, caring check in. We can all sometimes be surprised by the unreported struggles of others, even those we think we know well. Supportive energy can make a big difference!

My personal easy getaway is Timber Creek, a quite elegant retreat center an hour drive from Kansas City. The website, timbercreekretreat.org, has information for options across the country. My wish is for you to take good care of yourself, recognizing the past two years have been a challenge that we are still trying to accurately evaluate.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Linda Moore has been in practice in the Kansas City area for over 25 years and is a published author on personal and family issues.

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Artful Living.

From a lakeside sanctuary just outside of Kansas City there sits a perfectly perched house on the shores of Lake Lotawana. This is the residence of artist Lisa Lala and her husband, architectural engineer Robert Harris. This marvelous dwelling is the representation of both Lisa’s and Robert’s core creative principals: wind, water, and light.

Designed and built by the couple over a period of seven years, the house started as nothing more than two large moss-covered rocks facing the lake. While sitting on those rocks watching the sunset, Lisa and Robert decided to embark on a journey that would inspire a change in both of their lives, affecting their professional and personal pursuits individually as well as a couple. Upon purchasing the land, the question they asked themselves as they were designing the house was, “What does a house look like in the wind?”

Just inside the front door of the home, one is met with a lightfilled oval core that sits at the center – the heart – of the house. The entire house is built around this oval structure. When walking through the interior of the home, you find yourself walking in a spiral around the oval, much like the wind captured in a cyclone. Each floor wraps around the oval, and each room faces outward, taking in the light-filled, sweeping lake views. The space is a celebration of art, culture, and community, filled with Lisa’s artwork and a curated collection of artwork from artists around the world.

When Lisa and Robert began the build of their home, Lisa was working as an art director. As the home came to life, so did Lisa’s love of painting, and she pursued painting in her free time. She collected old windows from a neighbor and began painting

One of Lisa’s most well-known series of paintings is of a group of birds on a wire. This series came to life based on her own thoughts and experiences about the importance of community and the connections that we make with others, where it is better to be surrounded by others who support you rather than being alone.

landscapes of the Flint Hills on the slick, transparent surfaces of the glass windows. Lisa’s work was seen by a gallery owner right around the same time the couple finalized the design of their home and broke ground. That’s when Lisa had her first gallery show. The show sold out, and then every show following it sold out, as well.

Lisa was born in California and then raised in Manhattan, Kansas. Her parents, both respected artists, encouraged her instincts of creative exploration from an early age. Her mother allowed her to maintain a work-table alongside her own in her fiber-art studio. Lisa also accompanied her parents on humanitarian trips world wide, where her father, also a dentist, provided dental services to the underprivileged. These experiences fostered her unique perspective on the importance of community and exposed her to many different ways of life.

A visual storyteller, Lisa explores the larger, intangible questions

“Self Portrait as a Glass of Water #4”

“Information”

of our existence and re-humanizes painting, offering a positive, uplifting experience for others. She is most well known for subject matter including landscapes, birds, and water glasses, and is currently developing a new series of boats. Much like the design of her home, the thoughtful way she applies paint to the canvas is inspired by the elements of wind, water, and light.

One of Lisa’s most well-known series of paintings is of a group of birds on a wire. This series came to life based on her own thoughts and experiences about the importance of community and the connections that we make with others, where it is better to be surrounded by others who support you rather than being alone.

While known primarily for her paintings, Lala’s practice also includes sculpture, light art, and installations. Her work is owned by many notable private, public, and museum collections, as well as in donations to various medical organizations.

Lisa is reprsented by Muriel Guépin Gallery, NYC; FP Contemporary, Los Angeles; Blue Print Galley, Dallas; Pryor Fine Art, Atlanta; and Blue Gallery, Kansas City.

Her work is featured in the collections of Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art, Beach Museum of Art, and Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art.

Amani Skalacki received her degree in art history and studio art from Kansas State University with post-grad work at The Art Institute of Chicago. She brings her talent and intellect to Today Kansas City magazine in our art department, where she will explore and discover talents within our community. Find her on instagram @amani.styleKC

Lisa Lala and Robert Harris’ home served as the location of this issue’s Today Kansas CIty magazine fashion-editorial photo-shoot.