Founded in 1994, the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art presents modern and contemporary art of the highest quality and significance. It collects, preserves, documents, interprets, and exhibits a growing permanent collection; develops and presents special exhibitions; and offers a variety of educational programs. Admission is always free and the Museum serves a diverse and inclusive public population.
The primary objectives of the Museum are to stimulate dialogue, to foster understanding and appreciation of modern and contemporary art, and to present significant works of art as educational resources. In shaping its permanent collection it strives to reflect the vitality, complexity, and unfolding patterns within modern and contemporary art. In selecting its exhibitions it strives to represent national and international aesthetic and cultural diversity. In its educational programs (which include lectures, workshops with visiting artists, tours, family days, demonstrations, and performances in a variety of media) it strives to provide opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
The Museum’s audience consists of the public and students of the greater Kansas City area and region, visitors to the area, national and international communities of scholars and art-interested persons, families, children, and those with special needs. In all of these efforts the Museum, its Trustees, and its staff seek to achieve a high standard of scholarship and excellence in keeping with the most current standards of the Museum profession.
