one cohesive artistic vision
Public Art
As Barney Allis Plaza undergoes a transformative renewal, it sets the stage for a bold new vision. A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) was open until Friday, March 29, 2025, 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, serves 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 redevelopment of Barney Allis Plaza and the new Auditorium Plaza Garage by Kansas City, in partnership with Petrichor Projects, HOK, and the McCownGordon Design-Build Team, will provide essential infrastructure while serving as a platform for public art.
Requests for Qualifications process
Applications for the RFQ were accepted from February 17 – March 28, 2025; the application process has closed.
Applicants with experience creating public art projects of various scales and budgets, as well as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, were encouraged to apply. Artists without direct experience in these areas may apply as part of a collaborative team.
Check out the RFQ
Learn about selection criteria, budget, important dates and more on Café.
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.
Learn more about the process
Art Engagement Opportunities
Information Sessions
Artists interested in learning more about the RFQ were invited to attend an Information Session, where representatives from Petrichor Projects and the City of Kansas City’s public art administrator provided an overview of the project and answered questions. On Monday, March 3, 2025, one in-person Information Session was held at the Crossroads Hotel, and one Information Session was held virtually.
In case you missed it
A recording of the virtual Information Session, transcript, and chat is now available.
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. Led by Founding Director Tiffany Meesha Thompson, these free one-on-one mentoring sessions provided guidance and support to artists as they navigate the submission process. This opportunity was open to artists interested in applying for the Barney Allis Plaza commission or those looking to participate in future public art opportunities. Office Hour sessions have passed and were held over three days at the following locations in Kansas City: Zhou B Art Center, Charlotte Street, and the Line Creek Community Center.
