We are pleased to announce that Frank D. Uryasz III, founder of The National Center for Drug Free Sport, has been elected Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) effective July 1. A member of the board since 2015, he succeeds Pat McCown, who has served as Board Chair since April 2015. We are immeasurably indebted to Pat for his strong leadership and dedication to the college, first as a Board of Trustee member for five years and as Chairman for the last three. “There is no one better poised to move us forward than Frank. His experience on the Development and the Finance & Audit committees, his exemplary commitment to KCAI and his stellar work in the Kansas City community, make him the ideal candidate to lead the board during this exciting time of transformation for the college,” said The Nerman Family President Tony Jones. Frank has a master’s degree in business administration and bachelor’s degree in life sciences from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln. He is the founder and former president of The National Center for Drug Free Sport, a worldwide leader in the sport drug testing industry. He is president of read more…
Stingrays, Sharks and Art
Two of Kansas City’s great institutions – the Zoo and KCAI – have teamed up to create a fabulous new exhibit called Stingray Bay at the Kansas City Zoo! Opening on May 18, visitors will experience the gigantic 13′ x 45′ tropical-colored mural that spans the entire back wall of the new touch tank for stingrays and “cat sharks”. The Caribbean-inspired underwater scene was designed by our very own Vaughn Parish, a junior in Illustration. The project is part of KCAI’s MICRO Agency class, which gives students real-life experience designing and pitching ideas to clients. The students learn to work collaboratively, listen to a client’s needs or challenges, take constructive criticism, and present their ideas and solutions. In turn, clients receive an opportunity to have a group of highly talented artists and designers bring forward fresh, creative approaches to their business. “Each project at the Zoo is unique, and we enjoy being able to collaborate with local partners when we can. Working with the Kansas City Art Institute allows us to showcase the talent we have here in Kansas City and enhance the Stingray Bay exhibit in the process,” said Randy Wisthoff, Kansas City Zoo Executive Director/CEO. It’s exciting for read more…
Vanderslice Hall Closed for Renovations May 10-18
Phase III work begins on Vanderslice Hall this week and will proceed throughout the summer. Vanderslice Hall will not be accessible from May 10-18, which means that every department will be relocated. Each department will be displaced for a different period of time. The reason for this is due to the type of work happening in Phase III, including the addition of an elevator and refurbishment of floors and spaces. While we realize it is inconvenient, this is for the safety of our employees, students and visitors. During renovation, each department will relocate to various offices around campus. Below is a list by department that includes dates they will be out of Vanderslice and their temporary location. Please note that all phone extensions will remain the same during construction. If you have questions, please contact Kelly Walker ext. 3301, kwalker@kcai.edu. This information can also be found on the kcai.edu website and signage around campus. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as we work to improve our facilities! Department Move Date Return Date Temporary Location Administration 5/9 read more…