About the Company
ARTichokes in Mission Farms was founded by Megan Sutherland and two local artists, Rebecca Pashia and Jackie Warren. Megan wanted an exciting art space to be in the Mission Farms development, while Rebecca had a concept for an art space which was too crazy to ignore. To make the place happen, Rebecca knew she would need someone with lots of experience in the Kansas City art world, thus she bounced the idea off of Jackie Warren, who was thrilled to become a vital part of the project. Laurie Barling then jumped on board as office manager to keep all of these creative people in line, and ARTichokes became a company.
Our goal for ARTichokes is simple, to promote artists and inspire our customers. ARTichokes is a new type of art space for southern Kansas City. With classes offered for all ages, Open Studios for the community, Friday night music, plus an exciting selection of original art pieces to purchase, our art space promises to be filled with activity. Built between two fabulous restaurants in Mission Farms, ARTichokes is a fun place to see a sampling of Kansas City's talent and learn about the creative process as well.
Who is Rebecca Pashia?
Rebecca has had her own art business, Motif, for 20 years, creating original paintings for homes and businesses. She has also been dedicated to encouraging creativity in children through her Scribble Shop project, which brings all the visual and fine arts together, and has written many children stories. Samples of her paintings can be seen on the ARTISTS page.
How do we select our artists?
The ARTichokes committee hand-picks 12 artists of various mediums and invites these artists to show their work in our space for a 3 month period. We have a Friday night Opening Party to introduce the artists to the public. When the 3 month show is over, 12 new artists open a new session with another Opening Party. This process allows us to circulate artists four times a year. If you are an artist wishing to participate, send a brief note, some digital images or a link to your online portfolio to laurie@artichokeskc.com.
What are the classes like?
The classes we offer vary for different ages, but they promise to always be fun and educational. Each class is taught by a local professional, and continues for 4 weeks. For a detailed schedule, click on the Class Schedule link on this website. Sign up for a class and meet new people, try your hand at something creative, or just take some time out for yourself. If you are interested in teaching a class at ARTichokes, or have an idea for a new class, please email becky@artichokeskc.com.
Is your space available for private parties?
Yes it is. If you are interested in Saturday evening or Sunday afternoon rentals, our art space provides the perfect atmosphere for a party or recital. Click on the Private Parties link for more information.
Why the name, ARTichokes?
Besides being one of Rebecca's favorite foods, her first painting in high school was of an artichoke with lemons. The painting won the Purchase Award at Shawnee Mission East and inspired Rebecca to keep painting. Megan Sutherland, who also loves artichokes, bought another one of Rebecca's paintings of an artichoke years later. When they were searching for a name of the art space, ARTichokes just seemed to fit.