A New Era for Black Art in Kansas City: The 18th & Vine Arts Festival Brings National Spotlight to the City’s Emerging Cultural Renaissance

The historic 18th and Vine District, once known as a national hub of America’s most prolific Black artists and jazz musicians, is entering a new chapter in its storied artistic legacy. Returning for its second year, the 18th & Vine Arts Festival vies for a place in the national spotlight after a monumentally successful 2023 debut. From September 27th to 29th, the three-day event will transform the district into a vibrant celebration of Black art, music, fashion, and community, drawing national attention to Kansas City’s resurgent arts movement. Yet, more than the festival’s sheer scale—featuring an astonishing 90+ Black artists—is the visionary approach driving it. Marquez “Quez” Beasley, a Kansas City native and cultural organizer, is widely regarded within the community as an “artistic visionary.” As the driving force behind this unprecedented project, Beasley sees it as part of a broader mission to build lasting infrastructure for Black artists in the city. “Absolutely it’s more than just an event—we’re building a movement,” he told The Defender. Quez serves as the festival’s Director. “We are creating a platform that celebrates Black artists, not just for a weekend, but in ways that empower them long-term. We want to break down the barriers...