Arts Abound
Art surrounds you in Lawrence. The unique character and history of this hilltop city have made it a cultural oasis in the Midwest.
Artists, writers and performers have been drawn to Lawrence from all over the world, and inspired by what they found here. Romanian writer Andrei Codrescu called Lawrence "one of the secret centers of American writing." Devotees of the beat writer William Burroughs made pilgrimages from across the country to show up on the doorstep of his Lawrence home, where he lived for 16 years until his death in 1997.
Lawrence's cultural community also benefits from the presence and support of the University of Kansas. Its students constantly rejuvenate the spirit of Lawrence's artistic environment, and its museums and performance facilities are priceless additions to the community. The University is devoted to enhancing the arts in Lawrence through world-class performances, events and education.
A visit to Lawrence is an indulgence for any art lover. From outdoor sculpture exhibits on downtown street corners to fascinating exhibits and engaging performances, you'll find new opportunities to immerse yourself in the arts everywhere you look. So don't deny yourself the pleasures Lawrence has to offer. Take a look around, and find out why Rand McNally called Lawrence "the most culturally rich American city under 100,000 population."
Spencer Museum of Art
Situated at the base of Mt. Oread on the campus of Kansas University, the Spencer is the state's most comprehensive art museum and one of the nation's top 10 college art museums, housing a permanent collection of more than 25,000 works that span the history of European, North American and East Asian art. Seven galleries display selections from the permanent collection; special exhibitions drawn from the collection or touring from other museums are displayed in four additional galleries. The Spencer offers a full calendar of exhibition-related programming, including lectures, films, musical performances, gallery talks and children's art classes. Admission is free; donations are accepted.
Lied Center of Kansas
With state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding concert and performance series, the Lied Center is the premier performing arts venue in Lawrence. The Lied Center brings internationally acclaimed performers and productions to Lawrence, from ballet to Broadway. In partnership with the University of Kansas School of Fine Arts, the Lied also showcases student talent and provides educational programs and performances. For more information and a current concert calendar, visit the Lied Center website at http://lied.ku.edu, or call 785-864-ARTS.
Lawrence Arts Center
Located downtown in the 900 block of New Hampshire, the Arts Center is the hub of arts, activities and information in Lawrence. The Center's gallery showcases the work of area and nationally known artists, and the Center offers community classes, workshops and performance opportunities for all ages in art, drama, dance and more. The Center publishes "The Arts in Action," a magazine about the arts in the community, and presents events and performances in partnership with the Lawrence community.
Lawrence Community Theatre
Enjoy live theatre in an intimate setting at the Lawrence Community Theatre. Located in a redesigned church, the Theatre's unique setting and relaxed, informal atmosphere makes each night a distinctive and memorable experience. The Theatre stages six major productions each season, ranging from musicals to the latest works by area playwrights. At intermission visit the Gladys Six Green Room where you can chat, sample luscious desserts, sip a glass of wine, enjoy a favorite beverage and view exhibits of work by local artists.
The University Theatre
The award-winning University Theatre at the University of Kansas is the performance laboratory for students studying theatre at KU. The University Theatre Series and the Inge Theatre Series present plays and musicals on two stages, directed and performed by KU Theatre students. KU's Theatre for Young People provides local children of all ages with an entertaining and enlightening introduction into the world of theatre through school and public performances.
Lawrence ArtWalk
The annual Lawrence ArtWalk usually features a self-guided tour of artists' studios, art galleries and other venues featuring artwork by artists based in Lawrence and Douglas County. Several Lawrence studios not normally open to the general public are opened especially for the ArtWalk and many artists offer special demonstrations of their art. With more than 90 artists exhibiting their work throughout Lawrence, the ArtWalk is a great opportunity to unearth hidden art treasures and a unique chance to meet the artists who created them.
Art in the Park
The Lawrence Art Guild sponsors the annual Art in the Park sale, featuring the work of nearly 100 area artists. This traditional Lawrence event takes place in the lovely South Park at the start of spring and features live music in the park's gazebo, children's activities and refreshments for sale. The Art Guild also sponsors a Holiday Art Fair just in time for holiday gift buying featuring local artwork, music and an evening reception.
Downtown Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition
In Lawrence, great art is always just around the corner. The Outdoor Sculpture Exhibition features original works by artists from all over the United States, selected from hundreds of submissions. Each piece is displayed outdoors in downtown Lawrence, visible to visitors, locals and students every day.
Art Galleries
Lawrence's thriving art scene is on display throughout the city. With a multitude of galleries to peruse, it is no wonder Lawrence is ranked 12th by the National Endowment for the Arts among cities in the U.S. with the largest percentage of professional artists in the workforce. Whether you're shopping or just browsing, you'll find plenty of opportunities to experience the rich art of Lawrence.
