Celebrating Michael Toombs: A Tribute to Kansas City’s Art Legacy
We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us. This rings especially true in the world of art, where every stroke of paint on canvas, each note in a melody, and every carefully placed word in a poem pays homage to the vast lineage of artists who have helped shape our cultural landscape. Today, we honor a Kansas City-born artist who has significantly contributed to this narrative: Michael Vance Toombs.
Born in 1955, Toombs has become a beloved figure in the art scene not only for his captivating work but also for his commitment to community engagement and education. This dynamic artist has been an active participant in the world of arts from the individual level, creating powerful paintings and community murals, to the systemic level, by founding Storytellers Inc., an artists collective that designs and implements work with inner city youth and children in urban communities in Kansas and Missouri.
Toombs's artistry is deeply entwined with Kansas City's urban narrative. His interactive community murals have a special place in the city's art tapestry, with pieces like "Harmony on the Vine: Spill Paint Not Blood," which celebrates the history of American Jazz in Kansas City, and "Then and Now," an outdoor mural in the Ivanhoe neighborhood celebrating four influential women members from the 1940s to the 1960s.
But perhaps the most compelling part of Toombs' legacy is his dedication to using art as a tool for change. His work extends beyond creating beautiful murals; he's implemented art activities programs for at-risk teens, collaborated with nearly 30 professional artists on the creation of the monumental "Brown v. Board Mural Project: Legacy & Vision," and even designed a poignant installation that acknowledges the growing number of homicides in Kansas City through a display of 30 illuminated, angelic figures.
In an era where art has never been more critical, we remember and honor artists like Michael Toombs. Their impactful work reminds us that creativity is not just an aesthetic pursuit, but also a catalyst for societal change and personal transformation.
The 18th & Vine Arts Festival invites artists to participate in this evolving narrative of creativity and innovation, reminding us of the importance of remembering our artistic ancestors while we carve our own paths in the world of art. It is our mission to provide a platform for established and emerging artists alike to showcase their work, network with fellow creatives, and contribute to the rich tapestry of Black art and culture.
One of our featured networking events is ArtSpeak, where we invite artists to ask questions, share their work, and connect with other black artists. This is not just a platform to share your work but a space for collaborative inspiration and growth. More information about these events can be found on our website: https://www.18thandvineartsfest.com/.
We are also actively seeking artists to interview and highlight in our ongoing series. As we celebrate artists like Michael Toombs, we look forward to shining the spotlight on new talent. So if you or someone you know would be interested, we encourage you to reach out. This is a celebration of artists—past, present, and future.
Lastly, stay tuned for an exciting documentary featuring Michael Toombs. This in-depth piece will give an insider's look at the journey, works, and influence of Toombs, further elevating the significance of artists who make a profound impact on our communities.
Art, in its various forms, connects us, tells our stories, and bridges the gap between generations. The legacy of artists like Michael Toombs serve as a constant reminder that we are part of something bigger. We invite you to join us in this celebration, to contribute your voice, your vision, and your passion to the ever-evolving world of art. The stage is set—the canvas is ready. How will you leave your mark?