Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas City is opening the door to creativity once again, inviting artists to leave a lasting mark on a space rooted in community, history, and connection.
Through its One Percent for Art Program, the city is seeking professional artists or artist teams to design a mural that will wrap along a curved retaining wall at the outdoor pool of the Tony Aguirre Community Center.
The opportunity is structured to encourage both vision and competition. From the initial pool of applicants, a small group of two to five semifinalists will be selected to move forward into the next stage, where they will develop and submit detailed design proposals. The total budget allocated for the project stands at $9,400, offering selected artists the chance to transform a functional structure into a meaningful visual experience.
Set against the backdrop of Kansas City’s Westside, the community center carries deep significance.
Named after Tony Aguirre, a devoted volunteer and mentor, the site reflects a legacy built on service and local impact. Aguirre’s influence continues to resonate through the space, where six mosaic artworks created by artist Concetta Morales already tell pieces of his story. These mosaics capture moments from his life, including his time coaching and serving as Athletic Director at the Guadalupe Center, along with his broader contributions to the neighborhood he called home.
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The upcoming mural is expected to harmonize with these existing works, adding a new layer to the visual narrative while respecting the spirit of the space. It is not simply about decoration, it is about continuity, honoring a legacy while inviting fresh artistic interpretation.
To support interested applicants, the city has scheduled two virtual Q&A sessions with the Public Art Administrator. These sessions will take place at 5:30 p.m. Central on April 21 and April 22, offering artists a chance to better understand the project’s goals and expectations.
Eligibility is limited to professional visual artists or artist teams aged 18 and older who are based within the Kansas City Combined Statistical Area. This includes a wide range of counties across both Missouri and Kansas, ensuring the project remains closely tied to the regional creative community.
Artists looking to participate must submit their applications online by Monday, May 11, 2026. Any questions regarding the opportunity should be directed via email to the city’s Public Art Administrator by 5:00 p.m. Central on April 20.
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As plans move forward, the project represents more than a commission, it reflects Kansas City’s continued investment in public art as a way to celebrate identity, preserve stories, and bring people together in shared spaces.
