As Barney Allis Plaza undergoes a transformative renewal, it sets the stage for a bold new vision. A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) is now open, inviting artists from Kansas City and around the world to submit their qualifications for this landmark project.
This rare and prestigious opportunity offers an artist or artist team the chance to shape Barney Allis Plaza into an iconic cultural landmark. The selected artist(s) will develop a cohesive, site-wide artistic vision, integrating artwork throughout the plaza to create an immersive and unified experience.
Envisioned as Kansas City’s front door, this revitalized urban hub—a one-square-block park in the heart of downtown—will celebrate culture, community, and civic pride. The commission presents a global call to visionary artists who can challenge expectations, engage diverse audiences, and leave a lasting mark.
To bring this vision to life, Petrichor Projects, led by Tiffany Meesha Thompson, EMBA, will serve as the curatorial arts consultant, collaborating with the design and construction teams to ensure art is thoughtfully woven into the site.
Designed to spark joy and connectivity, this project offers a platform for artistic innovation, positioning Barney Allis Plaza as a must-visit destination and a lasting symbol of creativity, community, and Kansas City’s forward-thinking spirit.
The RFQ opened on February 17, 2025. Applications are due by March 28, 2025. Applicants with experience creating public art projects of various scales and budgets, as well as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, are encouraged to apply. Artists without direct experience in these areas may apply as part of a collaborative team.
Selection Process
Petrichor Projects, in collaboration with Kansas City’s public art administrator, will oversee the artist selection process. Submissions will be evaluated by a Shortlist Panel composed of museum professionals, art curators, and public art experts. Shortlisted artists will receive a proposal fee to develop and submit a concept proposal. The final decision will be made by a committee that includes stakeholders and community members.
Information Sessions
Artists interested in learning more about the RFQ can attend an Information Session, where representatives from Petrichor Projects and the City of Kansas City’s public art administrator will provide an overview of the project and answer questions.
In-Person Session
Monday, March 3, 2025, 6 p.m. CST
Crossroads Hotel – Private Dining Room
2101 Central St, Kansas City, MO 64108
Virtual Session
Monday, March 3, 2025, 9 a.m. CST
Office Hours
As part of Petrichor Projects’ commitment to community engagement, Office Hours is a program designed to connect artists with public art opportunities at Barney Allis Plaza and beyond. Offered by Founding Director Tiffany Meesha Thompson, these free one-on-one mentoring sessions provide support to artists to help them navigate the submission and public art process. This opportunity is open to artists interested in applying for the Barney Allis Plaza commission or those looking to participate in future public art opportunities.
Office Hours will take place over three days at the following locations in Kansas City:
- Thursday, February 27, 2025 | 9 AM – 4 PM | Zhou B Art Center
- Wednesday, March 5, 2025 | 12 PM – 5 PM | Charlotte Street
- Thursday, March 6, 2025 | 9 AM – 4 PM | Line Creek Community Center
Registration is required! Local artists will have priority scheduling through February 25, 2025. After this date, remaining slots will be available to artists from any location.
→ Office Hour sessions have passed.
Artists with questions regarding the public art process may email Tiffany Meesha Thompson at tiffany@petrichorprojects.org. Media with questions may contact Sherae Honeycutt, press secretary for Kansas City at sherae.honeycutt@kcmo.org or (816) 946-3611.