“The Mayor’s Art Initiative” kicks off in Summer 2022 with a “Variety Show” of mixed-media art displayed in the Mayor’s Office as a private gallery. In September, the show will open to the public at 785 Arts gallery & studio with an artist’s reception and work available for purchase by the public and will be available through the end of 2022. Also hanging in the Mayor’s private gallery at City Hall in late 2022 will be a selection of work from artists who have participated in the Aaron Douglas Art Fair. These works will be on display at the ArtsConnect gallery, located at 909 N. Kansas Ave in Topeka, through the August First Friday Artwalk.

  In 2023, there will be four rotating shows including Living the Dream Student Artwork, Topeka Las Artes, Topeka Folk Art and Topeka Native Land Acknowledgement.

  Artists who wish to have their work considered for inclusion may contact Lisa LaRue-Baker, 785 Arts Gallerist and Lead Curator for the Mayor’s Art Initiative, at 785arts@gmail.com. Please include images of the work you would like to submit, bio and artists statement, size and media, and which theme you are submitting for.

 

Patrons who would like to attend artists’ receptions, purchase art or view the exhibits can also use the email address to request addition to the email notification list to continue to get updates on reception and show dates, locations, and the artists involved.

  The Mayor’s Art Initiative shows are curated by 785 Arts and ArtsConnect, with guest curators and community partners.

785 Arts LLC is an art gallery and working studio located in the historic Columbian Building, 112 SW 6th Ave., in Downtown Topeka. The gallery focuses on indigenous and Native American art and offers classes in various indigenous arts. 

  ArtsConnect is Topeka’s premier arts engagement organization, working to promote the arts through building community connections and broadening the understanding of how the arts enhance our quality of life. More information at www.artstopeka.com