Back for its third year, Kansas City’s Parade of Hearts builds on the city’s claim as America’s Heartland with 5’ fabricated heart sculptures designed by local artists to create artistic wonders designed around a Kansas City-based theme.
The completed hearts are displayed across the city for public viewing and enjoyment from late April to August. The hearts are then auctioned, with proceeds going toward charities supporting the arts, education, and health and wellness.
This year, 471 artists submitted designs, and 100 were selected. Of those, seven were local African-American artists, up from four last year. Here’s a look at the hearts from local Black artists and where to see them starting April 27.
Sheron Smith: The self-taught artist and lifelong educator created “The Mighty MO” based on her husband’s reference to KC every time they cross the river into the city. Made to inspire a sense of pride in the city, “The Mighty MO” will be on display at Price Chopper in the Parkville Commons.
Keisha Jordan: Under the artist moniker Nero Noir, Jordan is a KC-based creative director who’s been selected by Parade of Hearts a second time. Her artwork, “The Epic Tale of The Ultra-Violet Warrior,” highlights the resilience and determination of those affected by lupus and their fight for visibility. It will be displayed at the Gateway to Raymore.
Taylar Sanders: The North KC-based visual artist returns with her second heart design, titled “City of Fountains.” The artwork focuses on two fountains that she views as important gathering spaces, one on the plaza and one in North KC. “City of Fountains” will be displayed at Price Chopper on Englewood & North Oak.
Miles Stewart: The Lee’s Summit North student created “Lake Life” as a nod to his passion for fishing and the outdoors. “Lake Life” will be displayed at Lake Winnebago.
Kristen Mims: All-around creative Mims celebrates the city’s passion for soccer with her artwork, titled “Kickin It In KC.” The heart features iconography of soccer clubs Sporting KC and KC Current, but also The Comets and the Wizards. “Kickin It In KC” will be on display at CPKC Stadium, the new home of the KC Current.
John Pannell: The KCK-based contemporary artist created “Alley-oop,” which he calls his love letter to the city. Pannell says, “It reflects the grit of Argentine, the vibrancy of Westport, and the ratchet charm of Wyandotte County. “Alley-oop” will be on display at the KCK Main Public Library.
Jenna Herring: The self-taught artist from KC named her artwork “Joy,” after the uplifting power she felt from viewing flowers in Kansas City’s River Market. Fittingly, her heart will be on display at City Market. To learn more about all 100 of this year’s hearts and where they will be located, go to paradeofhearts.com.
