Jackson County launched two exhibitions celebrating Black history and artistry Friday, showcasing both local talent and national heritage during Black History Month.
At the county courthouse in downtown Kansas City, “A New Renaissance” showcases contemporary works by four talented KC-area artists. While, “A Place for All People,” a Smithsonian traveling exhibition at Fort Osage Education Center, chronicles the broader sweep of African American history through artifacts and stories.
“Black history is American history, and these stories must be told,” said County Executive Frank White Jr. “Art plays a vital role in that storytelling, capturing our struggles, triumphs and cultural expressions.”
“A New Renaissance” brings together 24 paintings from four local artists that fill the first-floor lobby of the courthouse with vibrant works ranging from pop art to sports scenes to everyday life. The exhibition is free, open to the public, and runs through March 15.
Jamil Lee—who founded the International African American Art Museum of Kansas City and helped organize the courthouse exhibit—sees it as more than just an art display.
“This collaboration not only highlights the creativity within our community but also honors the profound impact that art can have in shaping and enriching our cultural landscape for years to come,” said Lee.
Clariece Kirkwood and Deante “Deecor” Howard are among the artists featured in the exhibit.
Featured Artists at the Courthouse Exhibition:
- Deante “Deecor” Howard: A rising star in sports art, Howard transforms athletes into museum-quality acrylic paintings. His work captures what he calls “the grit, glory and greatness” of athletic achievement. Find him on Instagram @howard.d.artist
- Lynell Diggs: A self-taught artist who has been creating since age 5, Diggs specializes in realism using charcoal and acrylic paint. His visually striking work aims to capture attention through detail and technical skill. Find him on Instagram @lynelldiggs
- Kenneth Johnson: Known for his innovative approach, Johnson combines broken glass with paint to create distinctive pop art pieces. His masterful use of color and detail adds depth to each work. Find him on Instagram @kid_lane
- Clariece Kirkwood: Through mixed media, Kirkwood reimagines everyday scenes with unique creativity. Her skillful handling of human forms, color, and light transports viewers into new perspectives. Find her on Instagram @siriusly_art
For Howard, this show marks a special moment.
“This is really exciting,” he said. “Even though I’ve had some opportunities, this is the first time I’ve been featured in an exhibit like this.”
Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit
At Fort Osage Education Center, the Smithsonian’s “A Place for All People” exhibition offers visitors a trip through African American history.
Originally created to commemorate the opening of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in 2016, the traveling exhibition brings powerful stories and artifacts to communities beyond Washington, D.C.
Through 20 carefully curated panels, the exhibition explores themes of triumph, faith, and hope. The exhibit showcases significant artifacts that tell the African American story, previously including child-size shackles from the era of slavery, the dress worn by Carlotta Walls to integrate Little Rock Central High School, Chuck Berry’s “Maybellene” Gibson guitar, and track shoes worn by Olympian Carl Lewis.
“This exhibition surveys the African American community’s powerful, deep and lasting contributions to the American story,” said Michelle Newman, Jackson County Parks director.
VISIT THE EXHIBITIONS
“A New Renaissance”
First Floor Lobby, Jackson County Courthouse
415 E. 12th Street, KCMO
Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Through March 15
Cost: Free
“A Place for All People”
Fort Osage Education Center
105 Osage Street, Sibley, MO
Fort Osage is located in Northeast Jackson County, about a 40 minute drive from downtown Kansas City. It’s about 3 miles north of Hwy 24 and Buckner Tarsney Road.
Wednesday – Sunday 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Through February 28
Cost: Adults $8, Children (5-13) and Seniors (62+) $4
