TOPARTS GRANT WORKSHOP - LIVE
THE DATE AND TIME FOR THIS EVENT HAS CHANGED. (Originally scheduled for Jan 21st, this will be held instead on Feb 3rd.)
Whether you're writing for the TopArts Grant Program or another grant opportunity, please join ArtsConnect for this free workshop all about grant writing! These workshops are great for anyone who writes grants and will be specifically tailored to artists and arts organizations that are interested in applying for funding through the TopArts Grant Program. Grant applications for this program are due on Feb 15, 2026 and more information about the program can be found by clicking here.
There will be two grant workshops where the same information will be presented - so you only need to attend one! The other workshop will be presented online at Noon on January 21st. A recording of the workshop will be posted on the ArtsConnect website as soon as possible following the event.
CALL FOR ART: THROUGH WIND AND WATER
Submissions due March 15, 2026.
ArtsConnect invites area visual artists working in all mediums to submit art related to these poignant moments in Topeka history. 2D and 3D art may be submitted. All established and emerging visual artists are encouraged to apply. Each artist may submit up to 3 pieces for consideration.
Topeka is no stranger to hardship. Our community is built out of a mosaic of impactful, and often challenging moments. Significant events shaped this city into the place it is today. Topeka residents have overcome natural disasters including the devastating 1951 flood, and the destructive F5 tornado on June 8, 1966 which demolished more than 800 homes. Not all obstacles have been natural disasters. The evolution of Topeka has involved numerous social and political hurdles through the years. From 1956-1964 more than 3,000 predominately Black and Mexican residents were displaced in the name of "urban renewal" - destroying one of the city's most vibrant business districts. Amidst national turmoil, the 1954 Brown v. Board of Education ruling put an end to school segregation, accelerating the decades-long fight for social justice and equality for Black Americans.
The city has had its share of shining moments as well including the development of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber plant and Forbes Air Force Base in the mid-twentieth century - contributing to rapid economic and population growth much like the impact of the Oregon Trail and Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad during the previous century.
Through these challenges and victories, the city and its people have adapted, healed, and evolved time and time again. Get all of the details here.
CREATIVE CONVERSATIONS: GARRETT LARSON
Join ArtsConnect to celebrate Kansas Day with a “Creative Conversation” featuring artist Garrett Larson. Larson will share insights into his work, which highlights personal stories through collaboration. He will also discuss his journey as a teaching artist, his role in The Home Team artist collective, and his experiences as a creative community leader.
About Garret Larson
In a society that throws so much away and is fixated on the new frontiers of technology Garrett Larson explores the past through objects. Meaningful collaboration and unity are themes of his work. Giving old objects a new lease on life while honoring their past. Artworks made with intent and storytelling. Larson explores personal stories, stories of others and even the history of the Great state of Kansas in his art works.
This event is open to the public and free to attend, but we appreciate your RSVP via Eventbrite so that we can plan seating and refreshments. You can also find information about the event on Facebook to share with your friends!
TOPARTS GRANT WORKSHOP - VIRTUAL VIA ZOOM
Whether you're writing for the TopArts Grant Program or another grant opportunity, please join ArtsConnect for this free workshop all about grant writing! These workshops are great for anyone who writes grants and will be specifically tailored to artists and arts organizations that are interested in applying for funding through the TopArts Grant Program. Grant applications for this program are due on Feb 15, 2026 and more information about the program can be found by clicking here.
There will be two grant workshops where the same information will be presented - so you only need to attend one! The other workshop will be presented in person at 2p on January 24. A recording of the virtual training will be posted on the ArtsConnect website as soon as possible following the event.
CALL FOR ART: PULSE OF THE PRAIRIE
Submissions due January 4, 2026.
What captures an artist’s gaze when they study their surroundings? This exhibition examines the diverse places that spark creativity, translating the physical environment into works of art. Journey from pastoral paradises to the familiar facades of old neighborhoods; discover hidden spots nestled among cottonwoods, explore images of native wildlife, or watch the horizon’s swell flirt with passing clouds. From bustling highways and urban alleyways to quiet creeks and forgotten ghost towns, we will explore the texture of Kansas landscapes through the eyes of the artists who inhabit them.
This exhibition invites you to explore the physical environment—both rural and urban—that shapes your artistic vision and makes Kansas special. ArtsConnect welcomes artists to submit art inspired by places in Kansas. The culture, flavor, and views are as diverse as the land itself. Through this exhibit ArtsConnect will showcase the beauty and diversity of Kansas and its artists. 2D and 3D artists are encouraged to submit their work for consideration.