Generosity doesn’t have to be in monetary support, but in the initiative to see a need and create the organization to fill that need. That’s exactly what John Hoffman did 14 years ago with Arts Alive. In 1999, the organization started with the main goal to bring people together from all parts of the community to share in and experience the vast array of cultural venues that exist in the Kansas City community. The other trick was to set all this at a reasonable price. Hoffman not only saw the need, but he knew he wanted to lead the charge in Arts Alive.
The organization is run by a board of 12 volunteers whose mission is to decide on the events for the month and serve as a volunteer host at the event. They also insure a fun evening of mixing with new friends, and sampling the array of art available if people get out of their normal routines. The average attendance, is around 75 people, but they’ve gone as high as 150. Often times, they have to cap the attendance because there’s such an interest. Of course, month in and month out, for the past 14 years, Hoffman and the volunteers have attracted many patrons. The number is 1,400 and growing.
First, it’s free to join Arts Alive, but there is a nominal cost to attend the monthly events beginning at $25. It’s pretty reasonable considering the bang for the buck. The visual component is a visit to a museum, gallery, artist studio or private collection. At this stop, there’s a catered reception with drinks. After that, the group heads to a ticketed event to see a theater production, see a dance performance or attend a music concert at one of many venues throughout the greater Kansas City area.
So they have visited Mercy Seat Tattoo Parlor, Kansas City Women’s Roller Warriors, Missie B’s and the Living Room Theater. Hoffman says many of the venues are picked because people are curious. They are curious about a tattoo shop or an artist’s studio. There’s something unveiled when the curtain is drawn back on the creative process.
As an example, Hoffman says the March event is Rezchurch at 1522 McGee with Truckstop Honeymoon and Mikal Shapiro and Friends performing folk music, bluegrass, country and blues. Before the music, the visual arts will be at Studios Inc. The 1708 Campbell address houses 11 artists and their studios. In April, the Arts Alive group will visit the Folly Theater for a performance by Eliane Elias, a Brazilian jazz musician. Before the concert, they will visit the studio of Ricky Allan, a Charlotte Street awardee.
Hoffman’s generosity means he seeks people to join him and get out of their comfort zone. “We challenge people to turn off their televisions, computers, cell phones and more … leave your routine and experience the rich, cultural diversity the city offers. Begin the journey with us. You won’t be disappointed and maybe you’ll meet someone new and interesting.”
Hoffman has also served on the Municipal Art Commission and serves on the board of the Kansas City Art Institute and the American Jazz Museum. He has also been part of the Kansas City Repertory Theatre Board since 2004.
