Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

May 23, 2013

1:00 a.m.

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art

4420 Warwick Blvd  Kansas City, MO.

816.753.5784

Open Tues.–Thurs. 10–4, Fri.–Sat.10–9, Sun. 11–5. CLOSED Mondays. Closed on the 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Free admission and parking

Recently, my girls and I were in the mood for an easy - breezy, take the day as it comes, quest for beauty. The plan: explore a few local attractions, take photos, spend as much time as we like, and just enjoy! Our "Search for Beauty Day" led us to the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, Kauffman Memorial Gardens, and Loose Park. All within a short drive - all offering beautiful photo ops and great views - be it art or nature.

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is often overlooked as a family outing - the gallery is small in comparison to our beloved Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (nearby), but it is an important part of Kansas City's art scene. As a mom, I am grateful for so many wonderful FREE art museums to introduce my children to a variety of artists, art mediums, and styles - I want them to appreciate that art can look like many things and can be enjoyed and appreciated for many reasons. The Kemper offers an explosion of creativity and color - new and innovative art for all ages. With permanent and traveling exhibits, there is always something new to see and enjoy! Be sure to visit the Kemper website for Family Programming information throughout the summer - they offer scavenger hunts, tours, storytelling, and special programs with kids in mind!

Art Galleries can be intimidating for families - especially those with young children - so how do you make the most of your trip? We've come to love visiting art galleries as a family, but it takes a "few tricks up the sleeve" to make it successful with young children (my four girls range from 1-7 years old).

Tips for a Family Fun Trip to the Art Gallery:

Ask about photo policies before visiting and follow them. Most galleries allow photos now, but may have rules about flash. Let the kids take photos too - if they own kid-safe cameras, this is the perfect chance to use them!
Stop by the info desk for handouts, questions, and sometimes surprise souvenirs - like spider rings for kids at the Kemper to celebrate the giant spider statue on their front lawn!
Plan to create artwork when you return home. Let the kids draw or sculpt works of art inspired by the objects they saw.
Talk about the art: What do you like about this artwork? What do you dislike? (They do NOT have to appreciate every piece they see - no one does. Encourage respectful honesty.) How did they create this art - what do you think? What is your favorite piece? Lease favorite?
Teach kids to observe rules - stand a few feet back from art work, do not touch, speak softly.
Plan timing wisely - well rested, well fed kids behave best! If they start to get restless, leave. Remember you can come back another day.
Prep the kids before you go. Build anticipation and excitement.
Visit Museum Websites before your visit to check out current and temporary exhibits - plan what you most want to see or NOT see if some material is not yet suited for your kids. Be prepared.
Encourage the kids to ask questions.
Read the information about the artwork to the kids sharing the information that will interest them most.
Make a day of it and visit other nearby attractions the same day - a trip to a garden or park for fresh air, play, and running is a great "finale" after whispering and slow walking in the gallery.
Keep it simple - on our most recent trip, we simply looked at the art and talked about what we liked and disliked and how the artists may have created the artwork. We are encouraging the girls to be comfortable learning about art and enjoying it - we do not expect our young children to be experts in art history.
Remember to go outside! Many local galleries - the Kemper and Nelson in particular - feature fun and whimsical outdoor sculptures! Don't forget to enjoy these!