Be among the first visitors to the newly opened Zhou B Art Center in the 18th and Vine Jazz District.  The renovated building in the historic Crispus Attucks School will be our first stop on Thursday, June 13, followed by a private jazz concert in the American Jazz Museum’s Blue Room.

5:00 PM Zhou B Art Center

1801 E 18th St.

Includes guided tours of the building and artist studios as well as cocktails and hors d’oeuvres with the artists in the Zhou B Spirit Room. Cash bar.

 7:00 PM American Jazz Museum, Blue Room

1600 E 18th St

Private concert by the Jazz Academy with Stan Kessler conducting. Cash Bar.

Arrive at 5: 00 PM to enjoy the recently opened Zhou B Art Center, a new hub for visual and performing arts in Kansas City lovingly renovated in the former Crispus Attucks School and nestled in the culturally significant 18th and Vine District. The Zhou B Center’s grand opening is in early June, so you’ll be among the first to enjoy this grand new space dedicated to serving as “a vibrant hub where artistic expression flourishes…tailored for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.”

Founders of the center are Shanzuo Zhoushi and Dahuang Zhoushi, renowned painters born in Guangxi, China and now based in Chicago.  They have achieved international acclaim for their abstract art. Their philosophy known as "Feelingism" emphasizes the symbiosis of eastern and western influences, encouraging self-belief and following one's heart in the creative process.  Some of their work graces the building we will tour. We will also enjoy the center’s inaugural exhibition called “Benediction from the Rubble.” which features four artists with local and national recognition: Tony Ramos, Robert Hale, Michael Brantley and Harold Smith.

Join the artists in the Spirit Room for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and take guided tours of the building which also 22 artist studios.

Leave the center by 6:30 pm for a short walk to the American Jazz Museum to enjoy a private concert in the Blue Room starting at 7 PM. Stan Kessler, renowned KC jazz trumpeter, will conduct the Jazz Academy musicians, introducing you to artists who been hand-picked to become the future of jazz music in our community.

Space is limited to 70 guests, so sign up right away, bring your friends, and enjoy another special Arts Alive event.

Tickets are $45 each and, as always, nonrefundable.

They are, however, transferrable, so if your schedule changes you are welcome to

give (or sell) them to friends.

Our Facebook page should be helpful with this.