Free After Hours Event at Albrecht-Kemper Museum Blends Creativity, Community, and Collectible Art

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW)-- The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art welcomed guests Tuesday evening for a lively night of creativity, community, and collectibles during its Free Museum After Hours.

From 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., visitors of all ages explored the museum’s galleries while designing custom trading cards, exchanging them with others, and enjoying a laid-back environment. Visitors were able to meet with local artists and discuss techniques and artwork together.

The event is part of the museum’s ongoing After Hours series, held every fourth Tuesday of the month, offering the public free admission and interactive art activities. No reservations are required, and each month features a new creative theme.

Madison McKinley, marketing and communications manager at the museum, said,  “It’s a fun thing to do with local artists and creatives in the community. Make these tiny cards and you swap and trade with each other and create these awesome collections of miniature local art.”  

All supplies were provided by the museum, making it easy for both beginners and seasoned artists to participate. 

McKinley said, “We wanted to have a way for people that couldn’t make it during our regular hours. A lot of people work or they have kids, things going on… We wanted to give an opportunity to the community to come out and see the museum.”

Rachelle Gardner-Roe, one of the museum’s current exhibiting artists, was on hand during the event, taking time to connect with guests, share insights about her work, and encourage young artists to express themselves creatively.

She said,  “I love that the museum provides this opportunity to have free admission and have fun activities. I love the fact that it’s kid-friendly. I love to see children engage with my art. Earlier, there was a parent reading some of my poetry to her child, and I just absolutely loved that.”

The Albrecht-Kemper Museum of Art is located at 2818 Frederick Avenue in Saint Joseph, Missouri. The next After Hours event theme will be the 1920s style architecture of Saint Joseph. For more information on future After Hours events, visit albrecht-kemper.org or call (816) 233-7003.