The 18th & Vine Arts Festival transformed the historic district into a vibrant celebration, on Sept. 26-28, offering Black artists a powerful platform to share their work.
The third-annual event brought together different artistic mediums like painting, drawing, pottery, fashion, music, food and more. This year’s theme was “Celebrating Black Film, Television & Dandyism”.
Abstract artist Megan Buchanan shared that dandyism is style. “It’s our culture, it’s the looks, it’s the way we feel, the way we carry ourselves. And I think in all the art you’ll see is some of the same things, but also variations of how we have been inspired by dandyism,” said Buchanan.
Buchanan added how art plays a huge role in preserving and advancing black culture. “I think it helps our youth find creative ways to expand their life, even if it’s not a career choice, it’s a hobby that you’re going to lean into because you get to express yourself,” she said.
While artists agree on the intersections of art and culture, it is clear that art is more than creativity. Beyond self-expression, it also serves as a way to capture moments in time.
“I think art is like a documentation,” said Jeff Harris, owner of The Black Love Company. “It’s like a placeholder. It shows you a place and time because it’s usually going to show you what’s going on in time.”
Harris also shared that he started his clothing business in 2020, during the Black Lives Matter protests. “I thought I’d come up with a brand where there’s really no rebuttal to it- to where it’s love everything black. Love black men. Love black women,” said Harris.
Similar to Harris using his brand as a response to social issues, artist Kenneth Johnson sees art as a chance for people to share their voice.
“[Art] gives people an outlet to put their voice on the canvas,” said Johnson. “What’s going on in the world today, what’s going on in their life. It just gives us a voice to put out there and for other people to share in that experience.”
The 18th & Vine Arts Festival is special for many black artists in Kansas City because of the opportunities it creates.
“It’s a big thing for me and for other artists. It’s one of the few art festivals in Kansas City that allows artists of all levels [to share their work]. It gives us an opportunity to socialize with other artists…it gives everyone an opportunity to see what other talent is out there,” said Johnson.
For students looking to get involved in the local arts community, artists encourage to take it seriously. “First Fridays is a good way to network with people and meet other artists,” recommended Johnson.
For more information about the festival click here.
