How Kansas City aims to show off local artists & performers during World Cup
Kansas City residents and World Cup visitors will see a lot more art and entertainment throughout the city and the KC Streetcar line with the Art in the Loop Foundation’s effort to display local artists as part of their 13th annual Art in the Loop Project.
AILF, a nonprofit, aims to engage artists in the continuous revitalization of downtown Kansas City, according to their website.
Artists selected will exhibit their art, create site-specific art, or perform in three different areas: along and near the KC Streetcar route, in midtown and in downtown between May and October, coinciding with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The theme for the 13th annual Art in the Loop’s is home, and how it has shaped the artist and what it means to them, according to their website. Artists are encouraged to think about how their memories have changed over time and what they have learned about others and their homes throughout their life.
“A familiar sight, smell, sound, taste or touch–these are the things that feel like home. Home represents the essence of our innermost memories. The aspects of life that resonate with our inner child,” AILF said in their call for artists.
To be considered, artists must submit a proposal for any of the four categories: music, dance, theater, improv, community or public engagement, spoken word, poetry, etc.
Artists can apply for multiple categories and events but will only have one performance if chosen, according to the website.
Performance artists selected will receive a stipend of $750 perform at one of five events between June and October, including:
- Kick-off Ceremony at the Kansas City Public Library Central Library
- Evening Concert at Oppenstein Park
- 816 Day at City Market
- Onboard the KC Streetcar
- Closing Reception at the Kansas City Public Library Central Library
Visual artists selected will receive funds to support their artwork for a six-month outdoor program and can submit their proposal in six categories:
- KC Streetcar Wrap
- KC Streetcar Shelter (Within the Frame)
- KC Streetcar Shelter Mural
- Oppenstein Park Mural
- Oppenstein Park Art Installation
- Curated Film/Animation Screening
Any artist that is at least 18 years old and lives within 50 miles of Kansas City is invited to submit an application before the deadline of Feb. 16. More information about the project, stipends and the submission process can be found here.
