The Leedy Foundation is proud to announce The Essence of Joy: Celebrating the Art and Legacy of Lester Goldman, the first exhibition in the newly established Leedy Foundation Legacy Series. This inaugural exhibition honors the profound impact of Lester Goldman, whose four-decade career spanned from early realism to a unique blend of abstract expressionism, installation, and performance art. The show will run from March 1 to May 30, 2025, and is curated with special input from Goldman’s family, capturing the spirit of his joyful creativity and bold inventiveness.

Lester Goldman’s work is celebrated for its vibrant, childlike energy, emotional depth, and playful yet profound exploration of artistic boundaries. This exhibition not only showcases his remarkable artistic evolution but also serves as a tribute to his nearly 40-year career teaching at the Kansas City Art Institute. On the 20th anniversary of Goldman’s passing, this exhibition provides a rare opportunity to revisit his most iconic works and reflects the lasting impact of his artistic and educational contributions.

About Lester Goldman:

Lester Goldman was a vital force in Kansas City’s art world, renowned for his ability to push the boundaries of artistic expression. His work, ranging from realist paintings to abstract installations and performances, reflected his ever-evolving artistic vision. As a professor at the Kansas City Art Institute, Goldman’s passion for teaching and nurturing creativity left an indelible mark on countless students, further solidifying his place as one of the region’s most influential artists.

About the Leedy Foundation Legacy Series:

The newly established Leedy Foundation Legacy Series highlights the achievements of artists whose work has shaped the cultural fabric of our community, ensuring that their contributions are honored and celebrated for years to come. 

The Essence of Joy marks the first of many Legacy Exhibitions that will explore the legacies of artists who have enriched Kansas City’s artistic community and beyond. This inaugural exhibition exemplifies the mission of the Leedy Foundation — to preserve, celebrate, and promote the legacies of visionary artists who continue to inspire new generations.

Leedy-Voulkos Art Center, a cornerstone of Kansas City’s contemporary art scene, is committed to showcasing exceptional and diverse works of art.

• Over 100 Local Artists & Makers: Unique, handcrafted vendors showcasing original artwork, jewelry, ceramics, and more!
• Mainstage Entertainment: Enjoy live performances on our mainstage, hosted by DJ E of KKFI’s “Energy & Jams” show. Each month features a diverse lineup of local bands and performers!
• Food Trucks & Local Eateries: Savor delicious bites from a variety of food trucks on 19th & Grand or check out nearby restaurants, pubs and craft breweries! 🍕🍻

Event Details:

When: First Friday of every month, April – October, 5 PM – 9 PM

Where: 19th St. between Wyandotte and Baltimore

Not unlike wearing emotions on a sleeve, artists tend to keep them on their brushes. The intuitive style Sarah White has developed stems from her ability to express emotions and work through thoughts that words simply cannot capture. She lets go of expectations and allows the process to unfold naturally, a practice that has truly become transformative for the young painter.

“It’s not just about creating art; it’s about connecting with myself on a deeper level,” White said. “It’s taught me to trust my instincts, both on and off the canvas, and to embrace the unexpected. That sense of flow and freedom spills into every part of my life, helping me feel more balanced and present.”

“The title Invisible Strings came from this idea that we’re all connected in ways we can’t always see — through people, places, and moments that shape us, often without us realizing it. I’ve always been fascinated by how one small action or encounter can ripple outward and become part of a much bigger story,” White said.* Article by Victoria Moore

Tuesday Schmidt is a professional artist and designer living and working in Kansas City. She earned her BFA in Printmaking from University of Missouri Kansas City. Collaborative art experiences have been a significant influence in her creative process. Her current work explores taking her studies in watercolor in small formats and transitioning that work to considerably larger canvases. The intimacy of detail mixed with spontaneity and exploration have been the key informers in her recent work. Additionally, she is an illustrator, installation designer and trend researcher for Hallmark Cards.

You are invited to our April Art Show!
First Friday April 4th., opening from 5pm till 8pm.
Show also runs thru May 1st.
All welcome and always free, thanks!
Regular Gallery hours are by appointment,
from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Closed Sunday
Jones Gallery 1717 Walnut, KCMO. 64108
816 – 421‑2111
https://jonesgallerykc.com/

“CRAFTED WORLDS –

BETWEEN LIGHT AND SHADOW”

Mixed Media Works on Paper by

Golfam Jozdani

April – May ’25

Golfam Jozdani’s series is inspired by the game Minecraft. In this game, each player can create their parallel world with extraterrestrial forces and unlimited resources. This world features many positive and negative characters. Her passion for depicting this world and its characters through art led to the creation of this series.

Her constant concern for creating a parallel world, one that her inner self is always seeking, fueled this excitement and passion. If she cannot protect the pure and positive characters or defeat evil in reality, she can create their characters side by side through her art.

This creation aims to bring about peace, turn inequality into equality and justice, and transform every wickedness into beauty. Golfam aspires to create peace and equality in her parallel world and show people that instead of being bad, we can be good, accept differences, and live with love.

2011 Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108
+1 – 844-202‑9303 | info@cerberagallery.com