25 January 2024
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – A brush and paint offer endless options.
“I know the power of art. I live the power of art,” Kristin Beal, executive director of Harvester Arts, said.
In 2014, Beal helped found Harvester Arts. The nonprofit’s mission is to expand the creative capacity in Wichita.
“We have a big problem with our greatest talent leaving the city, and so we’re really trying to, you know, give them a space and a place of belonging here so that they don’t do that,” Beal said.
The organization offers residencies and low-cost studios and leads the Gallery Place Project.
“It’s a really fun, free thing for anyone to do. We’re trying to activate different spots in downtown and get the community involved in art in a free and accessible way,” Janine Shinn, Gallery Place Project site manager, said.
They have three community murals and are filled with supplies to get creative, including one by the Keeper of The Plains.
“This cube, every single side you can paint on, even the wheels,” Shinn said, describing the mural.
Keeper Gallery Place – Gallery Place Project – Harvester Arts (KSN Photo)
Each site empowers people to use art as their expression.
“Just having a place to go do that. It builds healthy communities. It gives people a release. It gives them belonging,” Beal said.
Harvester Arts is using the city as a canvas.
“Art enriches our lives. I mean, that’s the point and so that’s for everyone, that’s not just for artists,” Beal said.
Each piece adds a vibrant spark to the community.
The Keeper Gallery Place Project is open Friday to Sunday from 2-7:30 p.m., weather permitting.