Got an idea for KC’s Parade of Hearts? Artists needed to make 150 new sculpures
Kansas City’s Parade of Hearts is seeking innovative local artists to create 150 new sculptures with a brand new design for the 2026 art exhibition.
The free public art experience highlights local artists with custom heart sculptures placed all over the Kansas City area, representing art, culture and philanthropy.
The application period opened Monday, and submissions are due by Aug. 13, 2025, at 5 p.m. This year, 150 slots are open for Kansas City artists to share the full spectrum of cultural identity and community pride the city is known for with their art.
“We wanted a big year, being on the global stage, so this is our second-largest year,” said Jenn Nussbeck, Parade of Hearts Executive Director.
The inaugural year featured 156 hearts. Nussbeck doesn’t see 2026 having more than 150 hearts, but the charity organization is known for surprises, she said.
“It’s our moment to show the world who has the biggest hearts on the planet,” said Nussbeck, in a press release.
To that end, the sculptures were reimagined for 2026. Instead of the standard heart, they’re almost a foot taller and use a circular design with a heart cut-out. The design is intended to enhance creative expression, visitor experience and artistic flexibility.
The keywords – global, heart-centric, and unity – inspired the circular redesign, said Nussbeck.
“The final designs will go beyond aesthetics. They become expressions of our collective story,” she said.
Each ‘Heartist’ will receive a stipend of $2,500, a $500 increase from previous years, she said.
“We are so proud,” said Nussbeck. “Us being a public charity, we wish we could give much more.”
