All posts by Kranzberg Arts Foundation

Curatorial & Digital Media Coordinator Kenneth Randle, an accomplished artist, officially joined the KAF staff in January 2026. He first interfaced with the Foundation in 2021, upon moving back to St. Louis from Huntsville, Ala., when he found himself being a part of a creative project that aligned with the opening of Sophie’s Artist Lounge. Having worked at ArtsHuntville in Admin and Gallery management, the skills he acquired through his undergraduate and graduate journey were a perfect fit for KAF. Kenneth holds a bachelor’s degree in general art with a concentration in painting from Alabama A&M University and an MFA with a concentration in Art and Philosophy from Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. After working alongside the KAF visual arts team on various projects, he knew it was a place he could call home.

 

What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?

My favorite part of this job is the fact that I’m learning every day. I am blessed to work with the visual arts team and, due to their experience and wisdom, they are always open to teaching me new things, which allows me to thrive in my position. Secondly, I’m surrounded by art every day, and that is a healthy place to be as an artist.

 

How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?

I can’t fathom how much this position affects the KAF mission. I wake up every day with the mindset to impact and support as many artists as I possibly can.

 

What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?

It’s a forever-evolving community. I’ve come in contact with amazing people, whether they are artists, musicians, poets or art lovers, I’ve been able to connect and share my story and vice versa. St. Louis, in general, is rich in history, legacy and creativity, so it’s a blessing to be part of this community that nurtured me.

 

What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?

I am a full-time artist outside of work. Personally, my fiancé really inspires me through love and encouragement. In a lot of ways, that drives me into my studio. Not only that, but she pushes me to be a better painter and to get out and network more. And because of her, I’m not just in my studio painting, I am living the life of a determined artist.

 

Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?

My three favorite artists from St. Louis are Artist Ronald Young, Matthew Fields, and Brock Seals. I could give you a list of names of artists who are making good work, but these are all artists that I know personally and have had the pleasure of working with or alongside. I believe these artists are phenomenal and are in their own lanes.

On Friday, April 3, the community gathered for the official opening of Everything Under the Sun, a public art project supported by the Sam Fox School, Pulitzer Arts Foundation, and Kranzberg Arts Foundation through the Design Opening initiative, which supports art and design projects and installations in the Covenant Blu/Grand Center neighborhood.

The evening celebrating creativity, collaboration, and community included a talk by designer Jonathan Stitelman; MIDI: A Live Beats experience by K Kudda Muzic, curated by Mvstermind in collaboration with local producers; hands-on art making with the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis Resident Teaching Artist and more.

Everything Under the Sun is a large-scale steel sculpture installed in a KAF-owned lot at the intersection of Delmar Boulevard and Leonard Avenue, at the northeastern edge of the Grand Center Arts District. St. Louis has a distinctive street grid: a patchwork of orientations leading to the Mississippi River that bends around us. The resultant east-to-west-ish orientation is very much like the path of the sun.

This new sculpture and space invites visitors to observe and enjoy the relationship of the sun to the city and the relationship of the city to itself. It provides an opportunity to slow down, take a moment to orient oneself to something bigger, and watch the city change as the sun moves across the sky. At sunset on April 18 and August 24, the sun will align with the narrow gaps between the tines of the sculpture. The same will be true at sunrise on February 16 and October 25.

The project was conceived by Jonathan Stitelman, senior lecturer in architecture and urban design, who led a team including Becca Leffell Koren, senior lecturer in communication design; Max Bemberg, project architect; RJ Hartbeck, photographer and storyteller; Josh Levi, sound design lead; and Chris McCrossan of Trocofab. 

“KAF was pleased to offer this piece of land to the Design Openings initiative and we are thrilled to have this new public art installation that can be enjoyed by all in the district,” said KAF Executive Director Chris Hansen. “This project is a testament to the spirit of collaboration that elevates our entire community.”

Photo Credit: R.J. Hartbeck

MATI (Music at the Intersection) Festival and Conference returns for its sixth year with a date move to July, new indoor-outdoor format, five main stages, an amped up free block party, and a continued focus on diverse, decades-spanning, St. Louis roots-inspired programming.

Headliners include singer, guitarist and former Fugees frontman Wyclef Jean; 4x Grammy winning rapper Killer Mike; legendary funk band Zapp featuring modern funk duo Tuxedo; 6x Grammy winning soul singer-songwriter PJ Morton; New Orleans bounce rapper Big Freedia; rising R&B artist Destin Conrad; neo-soul band Moonchild; and Latin instrumental trio LA LOM. New for 2026, MATI will kick off on Thursday night with a special concert at The Fabulous Fox (separate ticket required) featuring 8x Grammy winning singer, songwriter and composer Jon Batiste.

The festival also brings back Ferguson-born trumpeter Keyon Harrold, a 5x festival alumnus, as MATI Artist-in-Residence. Additionally, 2x Grammy winning percussionist Chris Dave will perform as MATI Artist-at-Large (meaning he will perform throughout the festival on a variety of other artists’ sets).

MATI weekend features more than 100 national, regional and St. Louis-based performances and presentations. With five main stages, including The Fabulous Fox Theatre (new), The Sovereign, The Big Top, Jazz St. Louis, and Sophie’s Artist Lounge. MATI is taking full advantage of Grand Center Arts District’s world-class music and art infrastructure to deliver a fully walkable indoor-outdoor summer festival experience.

“Grand Center is a top arts district in the nation,” said KAF Executive Director Chris Hansen. “As MATI continues to grow and evolve, we’re thrilled to welcome The Fabulous Fox Theatre and Jazz St. Louis as official festival main stages. Utilizing the existing infrastructure of world-class venues allows us to deliver a high caliber, fully walkable indoor-outdoor festival experience at an affordable price. And for those without a festival pass, the District is still for you. We’re going even bigger with the free community block party this year. Washington Avenue is coming alive, with rides, roller skating, art, music and more. MATI has something for everyone.”

July 17-19 MATI weekend passes start at $109 (all fees included) and are on sale at www.MATIstl.org or directly at www.MetroTix.com (or by phone 314-534-1111). MATI single day passes are also available, starting at $50 for Friday, $50 for Saturday and $45+ for Sunday (Sunday’s festival performances take place at The Fabulous Fox and pass cost is dependent on seat choice).

Thursday July 16th’s kickoff concert, MATI Presents Jon Batiste at The Fabulous Fox, is a separate ticket. MATI Members and 2026 passholders will receive special pre-sale access on Thursday, March 26. General public on sale starts at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 27. Tickets start at $65 and are available at www.MetroTix.com. 

Artist Lineup

With a special focus on “St. Louis Made,” MATI pays homage to the city’s imprint on the American songbook, as well as the relationship St. Louis has with its Mississippi River roots. The festival aims to celebrate musical heritage, from the West African coasts to the Caribbean islands, up through the Mississippi Delta. MATI honors the giants who shaped genre and sound – across blues, jazz, soul, R&B, hip-hop and rock n’ roll – as it also calls up and gives platform to a new wave of artists.

A majority of the lineup has direct ties to the St. Louis area. Trumpeter (and MATI Artist-in-Residence) Keyon Harrold is from Ferguson. During his Friday set, Harrold will be joined by fellow St. Louis natives, rappers AJ McQueen (born and raised in Wellston) and Tef Poe (Florissant). Quentenas Charles Beason (aka DJ Charlie Chan), the turn-tableist and DJ for legendary hip-hop group Run-DMC, is from University City. Before touring internationally with Run The Jewels, Gabe Moskoff (Trackstar the DJ) got his professional start at Washington University.

Other artists hail from the Caribbean, Mississippi Delta and sister river cities, from which St. Louis shares music and cultural roots. Sunday headliner Wyclef Jean was born in Haiti and often infuses his music with Caribbean rhythm and drums. Jon Batiste, PJ Morton, Big Freedia and Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band all hail from New Orleans. Saturday’s “Take Me To the River” set features a soul music supergroup from Memphis, including “Queen of Memphis Soul” Carla Thomas, record producer Boo Mitchell and Hi Records’ famed studio band, The Hi Rhythm Section.

Additional national acts are tied to St. Louis by musical genre. The influence of St. Louis-born or raised artists – like Chuck Berry, Tina Turner and Miles Davis – have had a lasting impact on the sounds of today. PJ Morton frequently honors St. Louis soul legend Donny Hathaway through covers and musical style. Jon Batiste cites Miles Davis as a major musical influence, relating with his artistic evolution and ability to traverse musical genres.

Also celebrating Miles Davis, Keyon Harrold and Chris Dave will host a special “Miles Jam” tribute on Saturday of MATI, celebrating what would have been the East St. Louis jazz legend’s 100th birthday in 2026.

The full MATI artist lineup is as follows:

 

Thursday, July 16 (separate ticket required)

MATI presents Jon Batiste at The Fabulous Fox 

 

Friday, July 17

Zapp featuring Tuxedo; Moonchild; Destin Conrad; Nubya Garcia; Keyon Harrold feat. Rapsody, AJ McQueen, Tef Poe & DJ Charlie Chan; MAVI; DJ Spinderella; Natasha Diggs; Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band; Mississippi Knights feat. Steve Ewing, Brian Owens, Chris Turnbaugh, Miles Vandiver, Adam Hamsbrough & Brian Kazmarsik; Da Fellowship feat. Lamar Harris x Scooter Brown; iLLPHONiCS; Kendrick Smith Quartet; TreHitz; Paint Louis Presents: R.O.T.N.; Enoch Raavi & The Indigenous Groove; Anansi Spins; DJ Tone; Dr. Philgood; G. Wiz; DJ Soundz; DJ Kut

 

Saturday, July 18

Killer Mike; Big Freedia; LA LOM; The Motet Play Jamiroquai; The James Hunter Six; Take Me To The River Memphis Allstars feat. Carla Thomas, Boo Mitchell & The Hi Rhythm Section; Trackstar the DJ & Friends Takeover feat. Prince Paul, J.Rocc, House Shoes, Buck Rodgers, DJ Crucial, DJ Agile One, DJ Sinamin, Radic Hi-Fi, BIKO and Soopaman DJ Speed; Miles Jam hosted by Keyon Harrold & Chris Dave; Blvck Spvde & Friends feat. Dee Jazz, Josiah Burton & St. Louis Poet Laureate Pacia Elaine Anderson; Jazz St. Louis Global Alliance feat. Janet Evra, Claire Maue, Dawn Weber, Aska Maret, Juan Quesada, Hector Molina & Andrew Bethany; Nightchaser Presents: Le Frique Cirque with The House of Tucci, Icesis Couture, JOJO, Mark Lewis & a Menagerie of Acts; Al Holliday & The East Side Rhythm Band; Manos PanAmerica; Pernikoff Brothers; DJ Sha’Vierre; DJ LadyJock; DJ Bounce; DJ Nasty Nino

 

Sunday, July 19

Wyclef Jean; PJ Morton; Keyon Harrold feat. very special guest Andra Day, Chris Dave, Peter Martin, Sir Eddie C & Aida Ade

The 2026 lineup was chosen by a programming committee made of St. Louis tastemakers, industry leaders, musicians and event professionals – along with guidance from Artist-in-Residence Keyon Harrold.

MATI Festival Passes and Pricing

Thursday July 16th’s kickoff concert, MATI Presents Jon Batiste at The Fabulous Fox, is a separate ticket and not included in the MATI weekend pass. MATI Members and 2026 passholders will receive special pre-sale access on Thursday, March 26. General public on sale starts at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 27. Tickets start at $65 and are available at www.MetroTix.com.

July 17-19 MATI weekend passes start at $109 (all fees included) and are on sale at www.MATIstl.org or directly at www.MetroTix.com (or by phone 314-534-1111). MATI’s weekend GA pass includes select orchestra or balcony seating at The Fabulous Fox on Sunday, July 19 for festival headliner performances. Fans get to choose their seats at The Fabulous Fox, meaning early purchasers get dibs on best available. At purchase, festivalgoers can choose to upgrade to premium orchestra seating.

MATI single day passes are also available, starting at $50 for Friday, $50 for Saturday and $45+ for Sunday (Sunday’s festival performances take place at The Fabulous Fox and pass cost is dependent on seat choice).

MATI is partnering with Delux Magazine and offering a limited number of MATI Delux weekend passes for $299 that include festival access + admittance to a Delux x MATI private party at The Key on Friday, July 17; an automatic seat upgrade (premium orchestra seating) and a parking pass for The Fabulous Fox on Sunday, July 19; and a donation to support Delux Cares.

All MATI weekend and single day festival passholders will have access to indoor restrooms, air conditioned spaces, expanded seating, and lounge areas. MATI passholders will be able to come and go freely from the free community block party to the ticketed performance areas, showing their pass at security checkpoints to gain access to the five main stages.

Free Community Block Party and Conference

With a continued focus on accessibility and inclusivity, MATI’s outdoor community block party – connecting its five main stages down Washington Avenue – will be free and bigger than ever in 2026. MATI is activating Grand Center Arts District with live music (including DJ Spinderella and Natasha Diggs), a performance art stage, a roller skating rink, carnival rides, pop-up fashion shows, mural and art exhibits, local vendors, tastes of St. Louis’ favorite culinary dishes and incentives to visit Midtown’s many bars, restaurants and retailers. 

In partnership with Frizz Fest – Frizzy By Nature’s Blooming Business Market will line Washington Avenue with local small businesses and artisans, featuring handcrafted jewelry, stunning art, unique fashion, beauty essentials, community resources, delicious food, and so much more. Guests will enjoy a dynamic and lively shopping experience, running Friday and Saturday (July 17-18).

Additional MATI partners include Laz Jazz Fest, LatinX Arts Network, Delux Magazine, Paint Louis (Paint Littles), Cinema St. Louis, Audacy, Poetry In Motion, Free4All, River City Outdoors, The Walls Off Washington, Metro Theater, Contemporary Art Museum (CAM), Big Brothers and Big Sisters and more.

“MATI is a celebration of St. Louis and we’re thrilled to have so many great community organizations on our production team,” said Hansen. “Delux Magazine and LatinX Arts Network are taking over The Key with two completely different and unique nights of music and dance. Laz Jazz is programming the Jazz St. Louis stage all weekend. River City Outdoors is presenting our new roller skating rink with DJs curation by G.Wiz. Paint Louis is bringing Paint Littles back, giving families a hands-on experience with art and graffiti. We have carnival rides, poetry, theater, film, multidisciplinary performances. 15 venues and stages. The MATI experience keeps growing.”

Friday and Saturday (July 17-18) at .ZACK, MATI’s annual thought leadership conference returns, providing free panels, keynote discussions and networking opportunities targeted at artists, creatives and entrepreneurs. With programming partners Evntiv, The Recording Academy, Cinema St. Louis and Audacy, anticipated conference topics include:

• The Pitch Room – how to sell your idea to investors and decision-makers
• How to Make Money as a Creative Entrepreneur – money-making mindsets from the region’s top creative entrepreneurs
• Content Creator Playbook – how creators turn podcasts, TikTok, and Instagram into real brands
• Crash. Learn. Rise. – real talk on entrepreneurship, mistakes and bouncing back even bigger
• Cinema St. Louis Presents: ACTION! – inside the people and projects driving the St. Louis film industry + a screening of the best shorts of the St. Louis International Film Festival
• What is Style? – from the stage to the boardroom—dressing with purpose.
• CAM presents: The Brown Bag Art Lunch – an intimate lunch with St. Louis’ most influential artists and makers
• Arch Grants presents: The Founders Lunch – a lunch Series with St. Louis’ top founders sharing stories from start-op to mega growth

Additional MATI conference details, topics and speakers – as well as forms to RSVP for the networking lunches – will be shared at www.MATIstl.org. 

Join the MATI Movement

At checkout, MATI pass buyers will be prompted to donate and join the MATI Movement. The MATI Members program asks attendees to become patrons, helping ensure that the festival – created and funded by St. Louis non-profit and civic organizations – grows and thrives for generations to come.  

As part of a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, MATI is about more than entertainment. The festival and conference is about accessibility, community and ensuring the arts remain central to St. Louis’ identity, tourism and growth. MATI Member contributions go to fund:

• Access for all. Last year, MATI provided more than 3,000 free festival tickets to community members who may not have otherwise afforded to attend. 
• Supporting artists. MATI fuels the work of musicians, visual artists and thought leaders. The event also creates job opportunities within the arts and entertainment sector of St. Louis, from performance to production.
• Building community. The festival and conference ensures a space where ideas, creativity and connections thrive, establishing St. Louis as a premier arts and entertainment destination while building civic pride.

Fans can join the MATI Movement at a variety of levels, making them not only a generous patron of the St. Louis arts, but also a MATI Member with insider access to festival weekend and year-round programming (including a special MATI Members Brunch at Jazz St. Louis on Sunday, July 19 featuring Brothers Lazaroff), special perks, and more. Learn more at www.MATIstl.org. 

Since its inception in 2021, MATI has grown in size and ambition year-over-year, garnering rave reviews from attendees, as well as attention from The Recording Academy and national press outlets – including PEOPLE, The Source, Billboard, Essence, VIBE, Ebony, Live for Live Music, SPIN and Forbes.

MATI is presented by Kranzberg Arts Foundation in partnership with Steward Family Foundation and The Regional Arts Commission (RAC) of St. Louis. 

Events Operations Manager Emily Hoffman served as a bartender at The Dark Room and a hospitality assistant at MATI before joining KAF full-time in early 2025. After experiencing the energy, camaraderie, and success of MATI 2023, she knew she wanted to be a part of the KAF mission. Emily holds a bachelor’s degree in Audio Studies with minors in Theater and Live Sound Reinforcement from Missouri State University.

 

What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?

My favorite part of my job is the opportunity to play a role in the success of the wide variety of events that we hold in our venues. Each event brings a new experience, a new group of people, and a new set of expectations. I love being in a position to take stress or concern off the minds of our event producers. I enjoy the many opportunities for creative problem solving and the exciting challenges of live events.

 

How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?

I am often the first individual to greet producers and groups into our spaces. I get the opportunity to welcome them and make them comfortable and confident in our venues. Every event held in our spaces is unique and deserves to be treated with the utmost importance and care. I enjoy showcasing our Heart and Soul values in each interaction and uplifting the creatives and organizations in our community.

 

What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?

I have gotten to meet so many wonderful and talented people through working with KAF, and I’ve been welcomed with open arms. I love getting to see how each of our different venues have grown their own unique community within the larger arts community. St. Louis creatives are determined and driven while maintaining such a welcoming atmosphere in creative spaces. Having a consistent space to convene and collaborate is an essential part of building a community, and I’m grateful to be part of an organization that supports that.

 

What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?

I am someone who always likes to learn something new, so I have many hobbies and passions. I especially enjoy painting and crocheting. Every week for me consists of getting into the community to visit local music shows, and I try to make it to as many art festivals as possible to support and engage with the creators in St. Louis

 

Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?

Some of my favorite St. Louis creators are Noah Fence Band, Hodge, Soumir, and Rooftop Fest.

KAF is proud to be STL Made and celebrate our region-wide holiday, 314 Day, on Saturday, March 14. Every day, in everything we do, KAF works to lift our local artists and provide the necessary infrastructure for the arts to thrive in St. Louis. Our artists are an integral part of what makes St. Louis so special and unique. 

This year marks the 20th anniversary of 314 Day in St. Louis and we’re celebrating all throughout the district. From markets and pop ups to art exhibits, food, music, and a late night dance floor, this is a full takeover rooted in love for the Lou. Show your civic pride and join us for these exciting 314 Day events:

 

314 Day City Market at Sophie’s Artist Lounge: 5-9 p.m. 

Hosted by DSmoovee, Sophie’s Annual 314 Day City Market is a celebration of St. Louis creativity, culture, and community highlighting local makers, artists, nonprofits and small businesses. Enjoy food by Chef Bailey & Co. and music by DJ Domo Fresh. This curated experience stretches through The Walls Off Washington and Sophie’s with vendors, artists, and organizations representing the depth and diversity of STL culture.

 

Kris Blackmon Presents the “To STL With Love” Closing Reception at Sophie’s Gallery Spaces: 5-9 p.m.
We are celebrating and closing the highly respected and adored “To STL With Love with Love” Exhibition with an intentional reception honoring the artists and the spirit of the city. Expect soulful sounds, community connection, and a celebratory atmosphere that reflects everything we love about St. Louis. Featuring DJ Prospect and Cook Crvk. 

 

Brock Seals Presents “Whole Order”, A 314 Day Pop-Up Exhibition, 5-9 p.m. at Legends’ Gallery

Renowned St. Louis artist Brock Seals is celebrating 314 Day with a special, one-night-only St. Louis-focused pop-up exhibition titled “Whole Order,” featuring his own works and those of fellow local artists including: A-Ron Johnson, Erica Green, Malik Fabian-Mahmud, Jaidah Michelle Kirksey, Kenneth Randle and Jeru Battle. The name “Whole Order” is inspired by St. Louis Chop Suey. The multi-medium exhibition includes photography, paintings, sculptural installations and video and the evening will also feature music, light refreshments and an opportunity to interact with the artists. 

 

314 Day Showcase at The Sovereign, 8 p.m. (doors at 7 p.m.) 

Celebrate 314 Day in St. Louis’ newest independent music venue, The Sovereign. With Jesus Christ Supercar, Mattie Schell, and Atomic Junction, the fuzz-pop dance beats, soulful Americana, and gritty roots-rock will have you rocking out in The Lou with a full night of the original music and local pride we are known for. Tickets available here.

 

314 Day Specials at The Key 

They Key is offering the following food and drink specials for 314 Day/St. Paddy’s Day:

• The Key Reuben $13: Bolyard’s corned beef, two patties, key sauce, Buttonwood sauerkraut, Swiss cheese on marble rye bread (or sourdough)
• $4 house shots, “Get Lucky” specialty cocktail

Accounting and Administrative Associate Alyssa Wolf joined KAF in 2023. Her work in the arts started at a young age with her first passion—dance. Alyssa grew up performing at The Muny each summer in the mainstage shows and all across St. Louis as a Muny Kid and Muny Teen. Those experiences led her to pursue theatre and dance at the Conservatory of Theatre & Dance at Southeast Missouri State University, where she not only honed her craft, but learned other aspects of the arts as well. Working in the administrative department at the conservatory, she quickly realized that she enjoyed the production and operational side of the industry. With her combined passion for performing and her education in the business, she was eager to work with KAF.

 

What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?

My favorite part of my job at KAF is working with each department to help make the magic happen. My colleagues in the Foundation work throughout our ecosystem, rather than everyone being together in one office. Because of this, some departments don’t get to interact with or work with other departments as often. I’m fortunate because I get to work with each department on their specific projects/programs in both administrative and financial tasks. It helps me feel connected to all of my colleagues. 

 

How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?

My role supports the KAF mission by coordinating venue administration, billing, and collaborative programming across departments in order to provide the best resources for local artists and organizations.

 

What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?

I love that the St. Louis arts community is always growing and evolving.

 

What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?

I teach dance at a studio in Wildwood called Devine Performing Arts and coach show choir at Marquette High School.

 

Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?

The Mighty Pines

In addition to its regular juried and resident exhibitions, KAF maintains the Kranzbergs’ private collection, built over decades and heavily focused on St. Louis artists. These works are displayed in regular rotation across KAF’s venues and spaces.. Portions of The Collection, some never before publicly displayed, are now part of a special exhibition, A Story Unfolding, on view through April 5 at The Kranzberg Gallery. Bringing them to this location represents a full-circle moment in the first physical space occupied by KAF in the Grand Center Arts District. 

Female identifying artists are central this installation, which balances large-scale, room-defining work with pieces that reward close looking by artists including: Carol Carter, Sabina Ott, Tina Mion, Melody Evans, Diana Guerrero-Macia, Ginny Ruffner, Lola Ayisha Ogbara, and Bunny Burson. Across media, scale, and approach, these works carry equal presence. A Story Unfolding marks a return to origin, without nostalgia, shaped by clarity and care and informed by a deeper understanding of how stories grow through ongoing relationships with artists, place, and time. 

As St. Louis natives, Nancy and Ken Kranzberg show their pride for the culturally rich city through their immense and ongoing support of its artistic community. This exhibition focuses on chronicling a timeline of the region’s conceptual and stylistic trends, the selections representing not only artists who spent considerable time in St. Louis, but also recognizing established and well-known artists working nationally and internationally. 

“When we collect work, we try to focus on artists who are living and working here, or in support of galleries and arts organizations dedicated to giving artists opportunities to show their work in St. Louis,” says Nancy Kranzberg.

The pieces in The Collection are portraits of the Kranzbergs’ relationship with the artists and/or their work—a time capsule of their ongoing and lasting commitment to the St. Louis artist community. However, the value of the Kranzberg Collection far exceeds its prescribed material and emotional value. Their sustained interest in collecting illustrates the importance of cultural preservation in connecting the broader population through art. 

Selected works from The Collection were previously displayed in an inaugural exhibition at The Kranzberg Arts Foundation Gallery at the St. Louis County Library Clark Family Branch. This new iteration continues KAF’s commitment to providing broad community access to The Collection. 

“Accessibility to this work is important. I’m hoping that we have this as a biennial exhibition at the very minimum so that the public can come and really engage with these works for the first time,” says Gina Grafos, KAF Director and Chief Curator- Visual and Literary Arts.

Part of creating that access is the KAF Visual and Literary Arts Department’s ongoing maintenance and stewardship of The Collection, including restoration and digitizing of the full catalogue through Omeka, an open source web-publishing platform for the display of collections and exhibitions. 

“Everything was previously in binders and paper files, so getting it digitized has been a big effort over the past five years because, ultimately, we would like it to be available as an educational resource,” Grafos says. 

Stop by The Kranzberg Gallery during regular hours on Saturdays from 12 to 4 p.m. to see A Story Unfolding and visit other KAF venues to experience other pieces from The Collection.

In addition to great food and entertainment, The Key Burger Bar & Boogie offers a glimpse into the past, present and future of sports in St. Louis. In order to create the perfect atmosphere for game day viewing as well as pre and post-game celebrations, KAF partnered with art consultant and St. Louis sports superfan B.J. Vogt to curate a collection of sports memorabilia and artwork—primarily St. Louis Blues and St. Louis CITY SC—to adorn the space.

“I grew up here in St. Louis. I play sports and I’ve been a hockey fan my entire life. I’m also a huge CITY SC fan and a member of the Saint Louis City Punks, which is one of the supporter groups,” Vogt says. He and his family have been collecting sports memorabilia for decades.

Vogt consulted with Gina Grafos, KAF Director and Chief Curator of Visual and Literary Arts, on what could be displayed in the space, both from his personal collection and from various CITY supporter groups. These include revived and reframed tifos from St. Louis CITY SC’s inaugural season, displayed on the side of the building at Olive and Compton, and the interior walls of The Boogie, acting as Polaroid portraits of players in action and expanding the definition of what constitutes civic art. 

In addition, Vogt was able to secure flags designed by the Punks and other supporter groups, as well as handmade banners. “We make this stuff and then, if it doesn’t get used, it’s in a garage somewhere or in a storage space, so I got it back into life, into society,” he says. 

Also on display are denim vests from the Punks and a costume belonging to Super Santo, a CITY SC superfan. Having worked in art handling and installation for over 20 years, Vogt was also instrumental in coming up with ideas on how to display and hang the various artifacts. 

An item that came from Vogt’s personal collection is a large St. Louis Blues Stanley Cup banner, hung prominently on a wall in the Burger Bar. The banner and other artifacts honor his late father, a huge Blues fan, along with the rest of the family. 

“I’m grateful to Gina and The Key for helping me honor my dad by sharing these objects. It means a lot to me to be able to honor his legacy and how much he meant to our family,” Vogt says. “Everyone has these things tucked away—sports fans have these nice pieces here and there— and they have memories with those. For us, it’s about being able to put our family’s passion on display, to share our passion and build on it with others.” 

MATI (Music at the Intersection) is moving! Beginning in 2026, the festival and conference will take place the third weekend in July, exiting St. Louis’ increasingly crowded September events calendar, as well as avoiding future Rosh Hashanah and high holiday conflicts. 

Save the date as MATI returns July 17-19, 2026, with five main stages, including The Fabulous Fox Theatre (new), The Sovereign, The Big Top, Jazz St. Louis, and Sophie’s Artist Lounge. MATI is taking full advantage of Grand Center Arts District’s world-class music and art infrastructure to deliver a fully walkable indoor-outdoor summer festival experience.

MATI is now offering $99 (all fees included) weekend GA passes as a blind pre-sale at MATIstl.org or direct through MetroTix. With the new indoor main stages format (The Fabulous Fox Stage replacing the Field Stage), weekend pass sales are capped at a lower capacity for 2026, meaning those who purchase early – before the artist lineup drops and fans rush to buy – are guaranteed access to the full three-day experience. Buying blind in February also earns MATI fans insider status, with first access to upgrades and add-ons that will be announced in the spring. 

One of the to-be-announced add-ons is a special “MATI presents” concert hosted by The Fabulous Fox on Thursday, July 16. The event will serve as a kickoff to MATI weekend. 

“Grand Center is a top arts district in the nation,” says KAF Executive Director Chris Hansen. “As MATI continues to grow and evolve, we’re thrilled to welcome The Fabulous Fox Theatre and Jazz St. Louis as official festival main stages. Utilizing the existing infrastructure of world-class venues allows us to deliver a high caliber, fully walkable indoor-outdoor festival experience at an affordable price. And for those without a festival pass, the District is still for you. We’re going even bigger with the free community block party this year. Washington Avenue is coming alive, with rides, roller skating, art, music and more. MATI has something for everyone.”

MATI Weekend Pass + Free Community Block Party

MATI’s weekend GA pass, priced at just $99, includes select orchestra or balcony seating at The Fabulous Fox on Sunday, July 19 for festival headliner performances. Fans get to choose their seats at The Fabulous Fox, meaning blind pre-sale purchasers get dibs on best available. At purchase, festival goers can also upgrade to premium orchestra seating. A special MATI Weekend Deluxe Pass, as well as a limited number of MATI single-day passes are expected to go on sale after the artist lineup drops in the spring.

With a continued focus on accessibility and inclusivity, MATI’s outdoor community block party – connecting its five main stages down Washington Avenue – will be free and bigger than ever in 2026. MATI is activating Grand Center Arts District with live music (including national DJs), a performance art stage, a roller skating rink, carnival rides, pop-up fashion shows, mural and art exhibits, the blooming business market, tastes of St. Louis’ favorite culinary dishes and incentives to visit Midtown’s many bars, restaurants and retailers.

Additionally, MATI Places, which include The Key, Urban Chestnut and High Low, will feature performances, clinics and workshops throughout the weekend. MATI’s annual thought leadership conference returns to .ZACK, providing panels, keynote discussions and networking opportunities targeted at artists, creatives and entrepreneurs. The conference and MATI Places are also free.

Join the MATI Movement

At checkout, MATI pass buyers will be prompted to donate and join the MATI Movement. The MATI Members program asks attendees to become patrons, helping ensure that the festival – created and funded by St. Louis non-profit and civic organizations – grows and thrives for generations to come.  

As part of a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, MATI is about more than entertainment. The festival and conference is about accessibility, community and ensuring the arts remain central to St. Louis’ identity, tourism and growth. MATI Member contributions go to fund:

• Access for all. Last year, MATI provided more than 3,000 free festival tickets to community members who may not have otherwise afforded to attend. 
• Supporting artists. MATI fuels the work of musicians, visual artists and thought leaders. The event also creates job opportunities within the arts and entertainment sector of St. Louis, from performance to production.
• Building community. The festival and conference ensures a space where ideas, creativity and connections thrive, establishing St. Louis as a premier arts and entertainment destination while building civic pride.

Fans can join the MATI Movement at a variety of levels, making them not only a generous patron of the St. Louis arts, but also a MATI Member with insider access to festival weekend and year-round programming, special perks, and more. Learn more at www.MATIstl.org. 

In addition to the MATI festival weekend in July, fans can look forward to music, art, and conference programming year-round, including the return of Free 4 All music showcase. Additional programming partners include The Fabulous Fox, The Sovereign, Atomic by Jamo, The Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis, Delux Magazine, Evntiv, and The Recording Academy.

Since its inception in 2021, MATI has grown in size and ambition year-over-year, garnering rave reviews from attendees, as well as attention from The Recording Academy and national press outlets – including PEOPLE, The Source, Billboard, Essence, VIBE, Ebony, Live for Live Music, SPIN and Forbes.

 MATI is presented by KAF in partnership with Steward Family Foundation and The Regional Arts Commission (RAC) of St. Louis. 

 Photo Credit: Tyler Small

Programs and Partnerships Coordinator Shantalle Ruiz joined KAF in April 2024 as an intern and was promoted to her full-time role in June 2025. She was introduced to the Foundation and Music at the Intersection (MATI) by a friend. She began exploring the website and previous festival lineups and was inspired to see something so vibrant and community-centered happening right in the middle of the city.

While keeping an eye out for the next MATI announcement, Ruiz came across the opportunity for a Community Engagement and Impact Internship with KAF that immediately resonated with her. She’s thrilled to have grown that role into a full-time position and to be part of an organization that continues to evolve—expanding access to the arts, supporting artists at every level, and creating spaces where culture and community truly intersect. Ruiz holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Bridgewater State University in Bridgewater, Mass. and a Master of Social Work degree from Washington University in St. Louis.

 

What is your favorite part of your job at KAF?

My favorite part of my job is being able to combine my love for research, investigation, and creativity to find meaningful ways to measure social impact within the arts sector. That work takes me into communities across St. Louis and the surrounding region, where I have the opportunity to listen, learn and understand what art means to people in their everyday lives, and why the arts are such a vital pillar of this city’s history, culture and identity.

I also love the versatility of the Foundation. No two days look the same. From music festival programming to visual and literary arts, artist residencies, and workforce development, KAF supports artists and the broader arts ecosystem in so many ways. Being able to engage across these programs capturing impact through storytelling, surveys and community conversations makes the work both challenging and deeply rewarding. Each day invites new, creative ways to measure and honor the value of arts, culture and entertainment.

 

How do you feel your role directly supports the KAF mission?

My role directly supports KAF’s mission by helping ensure that our programs and spaces remain deeply aligned with community needs, accessibility and long-term impact. Through surveys and direct engagement with community members, festival-goers and everyday patrons, I gather data that helps us understand what is working well and where we can grow. 

I also help KAF stay accountable to its values by looking closely at how our programs operate and evolve using evaluation, internal check-ins and data storytelling to connect community feedback with decision-making. This work often shows up in grant writing and reporting, where numbers and lived experiences come together to tell a fuller story of impact.

Bringing a social work perspective to this role allows me to keep people at the center of everything we do, ensuring that equity, access and community voice remain foundational as KAF continues to strengthen the arts ecosystem across St. Louis.

 

What do you love most about the St. Louis arts community?

As a Boston native and East Coaster, there really is no place like St. Louis—a true hidden gem. The arts community here is incredibly tight-knit and deeply rooted in culture, it genuinely feels like one big family. Whether someone works directly in the arts or not, creativity shows up everywhere, and people are deeply connected to how art shapes their lives and neighborhoods.

What I love most is the resilience and originality of this city. The creativity coming out of St. Louis is unmatched. I often find myself reminding friends and family back home just how many influential artists have roots here. St. Louis continues to create, evolve, and inspire in ways that deserve far more recognition.

 

What do you personally do (outside of work) to engage in the arts?

Outside of work, I stay deeply engaged with the arts in St. Louis as a proud board member of the Latinx Arts Network, where I support and advocate for the city’s growing Latinx creative community. As a Dominican-American, this work is especially meaningful to me and allows me to stay connected to my culture while uplifting artists whose voices and stories are often underrepresented.

I also stay connected to the arts by following artists and creatives across St. Louis, the broader region, and back home in Boston and New York. Staying engaged with these creative communities keeps me inspired, informed, and thinking creatively about how arts programming can continue to evolve, especially for younger and emerging audiences.

 

Who are some of your favorite St. Louis artists/musicians/creators that people should check out?

I don’t really have favorites, but I do love spotting artists we work with out in the world, like stumbling across Cbabi Bayoc’s and Brock Seals’ work along Delmar or catching a DJ at any given event in the city.