The Kansas City Art Institute has officially unveiled its newest campus gem: Marble & Canvas. Located within the historic Vanderslice Hall, this curated retail destination recently made its debut with a vibrant “Night in the French Quarter” grand opening celebration on April 4th, 2026. The evening transformed Vanderslice Hall into a New Orleans-style party filled with art, immersive music, and themed cuisine, marking a triumphant start for this unique creative space.
Marble & Canvas features a handpicked, rotating collection of original works, including handmade ceramics, fine art prints, textiles, jewelry, design-forward home décor, and more. These pieces are crafted by a diverse group of KCAI artists including alumni, faculty, and students. Visitors can even find signature scents created exclusively for the shop in partnership with Cade Black.
The name itself is a nod to KCAI’s storied history, inspired by a 1928 speech by Howard Vanderslice, who hoped accomplished students would return “great marble and great canvases” to Kansas City. Today, that vision translates into direct impact: every purchase supports the artists and helps fund student scholarships, ensuring the next generation of makers can continue to thrive.
Marble & Canvas is now open for regular shopping and private appointments. Visit kcai.edu/marbleandcanvas for more information.
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Thursday: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Friday: By Appointment Only
Saturday: By Appointment Only
Sunday: Closed
Online Store Coming Soon! Stay tuned for the launch of the Marble & Canvas digital storefront. In the meantime, follow along on Instagram at @marbleandcanvas for updates on new arrivals and featured artists.
