Jim Leedy and the Beginnings of the Crossroads Arts District

Related Organization: Kansas City Public Library

Artists and creatives seeking affordable studio and gallery spaces began moving into old warehouse and storage buildings north of Union Station in the 1980s and ’90s. Over time, this area attracted others interested in the artistic and eclectic sides of Kansas City.

In 1999, the neighborhood was officially named the Crossroads Arts District. Today, its signature First Fridays events draw thousands of people downtown each month.

One of the pioneering Crossroads artists was Jim Leedy, who founded the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center in 1985. The Art Center, now a collection of six galleries, has showcased artists ranging from local to international. Jim’s daughter, Stephanie Leedy, and granddaughter, Erin Woodworth, discuss his contributions to Kansas City’s visual arts scene.

Additionally, Leedy and Woodworth are joined by Lisa Peña, founder of Urban Hikes KC, and discuss her Crossroads history hike. After the program, attendees are invited to join Peña for a KC Streetcar trip to the Crossroads and a one-hour complimentary hike to explore the district’s murals and the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center.