In Their Own Words

Selected comments from visitor surveys from 2024 exhibitions and programs.

  • "A man from out of town said he was so happy he came to the Kemper today. He loved the cafe and all the art on the wall. He said there are a lot of artists in the building he is in. He said when he returns home he is going to construct a wall with art similar to the Kemper. I thought that was just wonderful. "

    –Museum Engagement Volunteer

  • “I just moved here from Columbia, MO and I am so enjoying finding so many cultural activities here… I have been a frustrated artist for many years and have not enjoyed creating art because I did not have time to practice. Now I do. I so enjoyed the Studio Night - Form and Figure… The instructor, Lacy Tink, gave not only encouragement, but gave me a few "breakthrough" ideas that will really help me in my future drawing.”

    –Studio Night Participant

  • "How lucky I am to live just 20 minutes from such an amazing place. Even in such tumultuous times.. art can still bring everyone together creating a sense of hope for the future.”

    –Museum Visitor

  • "“Lively, welcoming, great energy, and wonderful artwork. I love the new vibe and the new artwork in the Atrium.”

    –Museum Visitor

  • “I think the most meaningful were the connections from the art to their personal lives and experiences. Many of our students have family members who live in different countries so the [Hangama Amiri: A Homage to Home] exhibit was very interesting to see similarities and differences from their lives and the artist's life. They loved the opportunity to smell, see and feel the spices that would have been at the bazaar.”

    –School Tour Participant

  • "“[Kemper Museum] is my second home.”

    –Museum Visitor

  • “The art appreciation and confidence we instill in our tour guests can create positive memories and a passionate interest that informs the rest of their lives.”

    –Museum Docent

  • “A blend of art experiences - you get to enjoy the beauty of art that Kemper has to offer plus the added benefit and joy of hearing the art and talent of the musicians playing… I've been before and will continue to come to these events and just keep taking more people with me.”

    –Silent Concert Participant

  • “I have always felt comfortable there, it has a relaxed atmosphere. Now that I am a docent--I feel even more connected.”

    –Museum Docent

  • "It was joyful to connect with members of the community at the museum, coming together to draw, share experiences and hearing their thoughts at the talk. I felt deeply honored to work on a wall where the large Stella piece had been displayed for so many years, and I am grateful for the trust the museum placed in my work and let it be part of its life for a whole year. As a woman of color, it is important to me that the museum includes diverse voices in the artwork it showcases.”

    –Lucía Vidales

  • “I loved that [our docent] was so knowledgeable about the artist, about the architecture and about the history. It was not just about who the artist was but she had a way of involving everybody in a discussion. The art activity at the end was a special bonus.”

    –Adult Tour Participant

  • “I loved the contemporary art work. I especially loved the spider design outside in the front. I have a fear of spiders; however, this one was calming.”

    –Museum Visitor