For five decades, Hannibal-based potter Steve Ayers has made a beautiful balance of form and function the focus of his work. These days the artist is working with his daughter, Lindsey, and the results are truly a thing to behold.
Arts and Culture
There’s a song inside each of us. And on Make Music Day, cities around the world will host collaborative music-making events—the perfect opportunity to let your heart, voice, and any instrument you might play sing. Here’s what’s happening in Missouri.
The For the People Pow Wow is an intertribal celebration of Indigenous culture in Missouri. This two-day event has been described as a cross between a family reunion and a music festival with dancing, singing, and colorful regalia.
The Arcadia Valley Mountain Music Festival in Ironton has become a beloved annual tradition for fans of bluegrass, gospel, and country music. In addition to performances by professional groups, the festival offers ample opportunities for jam sessions.
For fiber artist Bella Erakko, the craft of weaving altar cloths is a vehicle for sending well-wishes into the world. With each order for a commissioned piece, she asks three questions: What do you want to wrap yourself in—peace, courage, love?
These two Cape Girardeau painters write and illustrate children’s books in an unconventionally collaborative way. Their method is a fast-paced give-and-take that requires absolute trust, open minds, and a willingness to pick up and pivot.
Back for Tennessee Williams Festival St. Louis, cabaret duo Amy Jo Jackson and Brian Nash will explore the depths of the diva archetype with a brand-new show. Judy Garland, Fanny Brice, and Annie Lennox are just a few of the figures represented.
For nearly ninety years, the Stephens College fashion program has been a standout. As the program prepares for its eightieth fashion show, faculty, students, and alumnae reflect on its influence on the industry as well as the individual.
A beloved tradition for this world-ranked fashion program, the Stephens College student designer fashion show is a chance for young creatives to showcase their best work—and for audience members to get a sneak peek at what’s new and what’s next.
David L. Harrison, Missouri’s poet laureate through 2025, has spent a long career writing books for children. In this Q&A, the nonagenarian scribe shares his creative routine, offers advice for aspiring writers, and shares a few poems.
Shortly after aviation took off, so did a new form of entertainment. Entertainers—many of them women—ventured onto the wings of flying planes to dazzle audiences with daring acrobatic feats. Daredevils continue to keep the tradition alive today.
Experience the magic of an Animals Aglow adventure at the Saint Louis Zoo! Over 60 dazzling Chinese lanterns illuminate pathways and showcase wildlife and Chinese culture. Interactive displays, cultural opportunities, and Asian delicacies await!
Lucile Morris Upton blazed new trails for female journalists and brought widespread attention to the Missouri Ozarks region. A new biography and an upcoming lecture by Susan Croce Kelly shine a spotlight on this remarkable Missouri writer.
Original art adds pizzazz to your home. You’ll discover exquisite art at the annual Kansas City Artists Coalition’s auction. The online preview will get you revved up to bid, and there’s a feature for those who require instant gratification.
The City Museum in St. Louis is a high-energy, family-friendly destination, and where better to display a unique collection of bold, thought-provoking art? The “Blessed by the Ancestors” exhibit features incredible works by St. Louis artists.
Get away with your sweetheart to an elegant dinner within an art museum. Stay at one of the many historic house B&Bs close by to round out the romance. The five-course dinner includes a short art talk from the museum director on couples’ art.
You still have time to see Small Towns, Big Stories, a free exhibit documenting 75 years of the Missouri Photo Workshop, which photographs small Missouri towns annually. Peek into the changes of our landscape and culture as you view 121 images.
Plan ahead to visit this annual pop culture convention featuring actor Isaac Singleton, Pirates of the Caribbean, Ande Parks, creator of the comic “Ciudad” that inspired the film, Extraction, and Kevin Mellon, who worked on The Vampire Diaries.
You can see some of the spectacular dresses worn by Hollywood star Ginger Rogers and hear how her garments influence modern designers at a special program coming up next week. Ginger, who was born in Independence, frequently defied society norms.
Who can forget Robin Williams’ in the hilarious yet heartfelt hit movie “Mrs. Doubtfire?” He played divorced dad Daniel Hillard, who, unhappy that he doesn’t have more access to his kids, masquerades as an elderly Scottish nanny to be with them.
Looking for a unique way to ring in the New Year? We know of the perfect one! Usher in 2024 with an ancient French tradition that dates back to Europe’s Middle Ages. It’s a chance to join jovial and joyous revelers ambling about a historic town.
This artist’s work made one young mother burst into tears. She paints bold, beautiful women in bright colors but also cozy, quiet cottages in pastels. Her intriguing tiles can be creative accents in any room. Discover where to see her work.
Green giving is a great way to give gifts. Holiday gifts and parties can be sustainable and sensational. Read all about some great ideas to go green this holiday season and all year long.
Elizabeth Exley, from Crane, MO, found her artistic niche in needle-felting. The artform involves the clever manipulation of wool to transform it into a delightful 3D creation. Elizabeth weaves together her community and her faith with the art she loves.
Theaters across the state bring a holiday classic to life. Santa, Rudolph, and Buddy the Elf are all beloved representations of cheerful Christmas spirit, but for many Missourians, it wouldn’t be the holiday season without a visit to a cantankerous old miser.
Artist Debi Pickler isn’t content working in just one medium. Her art runs the gamut from hyperrealistic drawings to whimsical paintings to charming felted animals and beyond. Meet this versatile artist who is always thinking of something new.
Tchaikovsky’s masterpiece The Nutcracker has been a treasured tradition for many each holiday season. The magical Christmas ballet tells the story of Clara and her unsettling dream about a Nutcracker prince. And you can see it on Dec. 6!
Artist Wanda Tyner creates colorful, textural art with glass. Her work, from functional platters and bowls to conversation-piece wall hangings, always evokes Wanda’s love of nature, travel, and music. Follow her journey from art lover to artist.
This artist has her mantra painted on her studio walls and lives it. She’s still passionate about her artwork after 41 years, and she explains her inspirations, her motivations, and how she has expanded into different media.
