Author: Ellen Muse

  • 21st Annual Founders Day Honors Volunteer Leaders

    • 27 March 2025
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    Each year, Kennedy Heights Arts Centers recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the Arts Center’s mission through their leadership and volunteer service through awards presented at our annual Founders Day event. The 21st Annual Founders Day will be held on Sunday, April 27 from 2-4 pm.

    We are pleased to announce this year’s honorees.

    Donita Parrish
    Donita Parrish, recipient of the 2025 Kennedy Award. Photo by Will Jones.


    Donita Parrish, Kennedy Award

    Donita Parrish discovered Kennedy Heights Arts Center through family friends (and KHAC founders) Jim and Susan Zarnowicki. She recalls attending her first Winterfest in 2007, shortly after she and her husband Paul moved to Pleasant Ridge.

    Upon joining the board, Donita took on the role of vice president and then president from 2018 to 2024. Her outstanding leadership during a pivotal time in KHAC’s history earned her this year’s Kennedy Award, honoring exceptional contributors to the mission.

    Some of the work Donita is proudest of may not be obvious to KHAC visitors but has a significant impact on those who work for the Center. “I’m very proud that we improved some personnel policies and made it possible for the Arts Center to start offering health insurance,” she says. She’s also proud of the work KHAC has done in conjunction with the OF/BY/FOR ALL Change Network, a program for cultural organizations that provides an intentional framework to help make them more inclusive, equitable, and relevant.

    Asked what experiences at the Arts Center stand out most to her, Donita points to the Center’s artist-in-residence programs. In fact, one such program reunited her with college friends from Cleveland’s Inlet Dance Theatre a few years ago.

    Donita’s experience with KHAC will resonate with many people for whom the Center is part of the fabric of family life. “The Arts Center has impacted my life by helping me stay connected—and reconnect—with art,” she says. “With the demands of parenting and working full-time, having the Arts Center in the neighborhood has made participating in creative endeavors possible for me at different times when my kids were growing up. Also, it’s been a third place for my kids—one who’s in college and one who’s graduating high school—through summer camps, classes, and Teen Artists for Change.”

    Thank you, Donita, for making Kennedy Heights Arts Center a more inclusive and welcoming place for all families!

    David Gruber
    David Gruber, recipients of the 2025 Volunteer Award. Photo by Will Jones.


    David Gruber, Volunteer Award

    David Gruber has been involved with Kennedy Heights Arts Center almost since its founding. A Kennedy Heights resident at the time, he attended many events and exhibits at the fledgling organization. Later, he helped plan the Jazz in the Heights concert series, which led to his joining the Board about a year later.

    David’s impact on the Arts Center has literally blossomed through the years: As a board member and chair of the Facilities Committee from 2018 to 2024, he led efforts to revamp the Center’s campus. Inspired by the lush landscape created by Lee DeRhodes, he worked to preserve and enhance this legacy. His dedication went beyond leadership—he could often be found in the garden himself, pulling weeds and tending to plants. The garden project remains one of David’s proudest contributions to KHAC.

    David’s leadership and hands-on dedication have ensured that the Arts Center remains a beautiful, welcoming space for all. We are honored to recognize him with this year’s Volunteer Achievement Award.

    Some of David’s fondest memories of KHAC include working with staff and board members to create collage art with artist June Daley, and experiencing Wing Yung Huie’s photography exhibit. Speaking to the latter about his motivations, David says, challenged him to consider questions like, “What is my identity? How do I fit into the world? How might my life be different if…?”

    David has always enjoyed exploring visual and performing arts across a wide range of styles and periods. In college, he was exposed to the artistic forms of African cultures, which broadened his perspective on the role of art and artistic expression in societies. It also gave him a way to understand more of the world outside of the US and Europe that had made up the majority of his academic experiences to that point. “I continue to explore diverse art in my travels and through exhibitions that come to Cincinnati,” says David. “When you look at the range of programs KHAC offers, it is a remarkable diversity of art forms, ideas and expression that you can experience here.”

    Thank you, David, for all you’ve done! Because of you, the Arts Center will continue to bloom for many years to come.

    All are invited to join us for the 21st Annual Founders Day celebration on Sunday, April 27 from 2 to 4 pm. The program starts at 2:30 pm. Free.

    RSVP appreciated by April 22. 

  • 2024: A Year of Impact

    • 23 December 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    As we close out another remarkable year at Kennedy Heights Arts Center, I’m filled with gratitude for all we have accomplished together.


    A Year of Impact


    In 2024, Kennedy Heights Arts Center served more than 12,000 people of all ages through 1,152 free and low-cost arts experiences that enriched lives and built community. As always, 100% of our programs were accessible to everyone regardless of income. Here’s a look at what we achieved:

    • 21 Classes: Welcomed people of all ages to explore and expand their creativity.
    • 28 Summer Camps: Provided 289 young people with a space to learn, grow, and make lifelong memories, creating original art, writing plays, designing fashions, making music, and more.
    • 952 hours of Arts Integration in Public Schools: Inspired creativity, confidence, and well-being in 386 students in K-6th grade through free in-school, after-school, and summer visual and performing arts programs at Woodford Academy, John P. Parker School, and the Academy of World Languages.
    • 10 Art Exhibitions: Featuring works by 187 diverse artists, sparked important conversations about social issues of our time, and allowed us all to take a deeper look at our world.
    • 5 National Jazz Awards: Brought home by the Cincinnati Jazz Academy, competing with student groups across the country at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival. The academy provided extraordinary jazz education five days a week for 144 students in grades 4-12 from 29 Cincinnati Public Schools.
    • 28 Concerts and Performances: From live music to storytelling, these events celebrated community and diverse culture. Play in the Park brought together more than 250 neighbors each Wednesday evening during the summer for free music, art-making, food, and social activities in Kennedy Heights Park.
     
    Cheers to 20 Years!


    This year marked our 20th anniversary, and we celebrated with the “Cheers to 20 Years” event in May. Friends near and far came together to honor two decades of creativity and inclusion. To commemorate this milestone, we hosted a group show featuring diverse works by 20 artists who have shaped Kennedy Heights Arts Center over the years; and 10 artists created limited-edition ceramic plates for the occasion (the traditional 20th-anniversary gift is china!)


    We also launched the Beyond20 campaign to establish an endowment fund, ensuring that our founding promise of inclusion and accessibility continues for generations to come.


    Sharing Diverse Stories


    Our year was filled with powerful storytelling and artistic exploration:

    • Hearts of Liberation: A Celebration of Radical Black Love as Collective Care explored how the richness of Black love has shaped the past, informs the present, and propels us toward a more just and equitable future in a group exhibition curated by Asha White.
    • The 4th Annual Voices of Freedom series, in partnership with Juneteenth Cincinnati, celebrated Black history from a contemporary perspective through a visual art exhibition and three performances including music, dance, and spoken word.
    • Gee Horton’s Chapter 2: A Subtle Farewell to the Inner Child drew record-breaking attendance as part of the FotoFocus Biennial, offering deeply personal yet universal reflections on identity and belonging.
    • 97 contemporary printmakers from India used art to reflect on cultural and social issues they face in Printed Voices from India, curated by Saad Ghosn of SOS Art.
    • Erika NJ Allen, our 2024 Vibrancy Fellow, led ceramic workshops focusing on empathy, unity, equity, and diversity, culminating in a powerful community exhibit.

    Building Resilient Youth


    We’re helping students develop not only as artists, but as well-rounded individuals. The impact is clear—students are more engaged, more connected, and better prepared to face the world with confidence. 81% of Cr8 Club participants demonstrated increased social-emotional skills, showing a marked improvement in problem-solving abilities and social interactions; and 89% of jazz academy students met their proficiency goals. Students at John P. Parker ended the year with a production of Disney’s The Lion King Jr., in which every student played a role including acting, singing, designing, and stage tech.


    Our Teen Artists for Change program empowered young adults to use their talents to make an impact; and the Tellus Zine lifted their voices, showcasing art and creative writing created by teens, for teens.


    Support The Art of Belonging


    As we celebrate these achievements, we also recognize that none of this would be possible without the support of individuals like you. This year, we’ve worked tirelessly to make The Art of Belonging a reality for all. But our work is far from over.


    As we embark on another year of inspiring creativity and connection, we invite you to support Kennedy Heights Arts Center by contributing to our Annual Fund Campaign. Your gift—no matter the size—helps us keep our programs free and accessible for all.


    By supporting Kennedy Heights Arts Center, you’re investing in a stronger, more inclusive community.


    Make your donation today.


    Best wishes for a wonderful New Year filled with creativity, connection, and belonging!

  • The Art of Belonging: Empowering the Next Generation of Changemakers

    • 16 December 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    At Kennedy Heights Arts Center, we believe everyone deserves a place to feel seen, heard, and valued. Through our annual campaign, The Art of Belonging, we’re sharing stories of individuals whose lives have been enriched through our programs —and how your support makes a difference. One such program, Teen Artists for Change (TAC), empowers students in grades 7-12 to use art to express themselves, address important issues, and inspire change in the world around them.


    Recently, I sat down with some of the teens to talk about their experiences. Listening to them describe why TAC is meaningful to them, the sense of belonging they feel, and the ways it’s made a difference in their lives, it became clear just how essential programs like this are.

    Photo Credit: Will Jones

    A Space for Connection and Creativity


    For teens like Luna, Teen Artists for Change is a place where she can be around other creative minds who share her love for art. “The main thing I like about it is the people here,” Luna shared. “Being around other people who are passionate about art feels so fulfilling.” TAC provides these young artists with something vital: a community. It’s not just a program—it’s a space where they can connect over shared interests, experiment, and learn from each other and from professional artists like Karen Saunders.


    Karen is currently leading the group through an inspiring “yarn bombing” public art project, with a theme chosen by the teens: love and acceptance. When teens choose to make art about these themes, they’re expressing values that they want to see in the world, while also nurturing these qualities within their own community.

    Photo Credit: Shawndale Thomas

    A Sense of Belonging


    In our conversations, many of the teens highlighted how Teen Artists for Change is different from other spaces in their lives. For Vaya, it represents “an opportunity for me to express myself. In high school, so many people try to be the same, but here, I get to meet so many different people, and we can all truly be ourselves.” This sentiment was echoed by Eden, who described TAC as “a safe haven” where there is no judgment, and where everyone is free to be themselves.


    Luna reflected on how the group values what makes each teen unique: “Things that make you different are valued. It’s good to be different. Your differences mean unique things you can offer.”

    Photo Credit: Will Jones


    This sense of inclusion isn’t just inspiring; it’s a critical lifeline for teens like Allyn, who said, “I’m a person who isn’t really accepted at school. This place is very open and safe. Artists are very open-minded.”


    In a world that often feels divided, Teen Artists for Change provides a much-needed environment of acceptance, helping youth see that their individuality is a strength. Each project, conversation, and experience they have here teaches them that they have a place and that their voices matter.

    Photo Credit: Will Jones
     
    Your Donation Makes a Difference


    When you support The Art of Belonging, you’re helping ensure that programs like Teen Artists for Change can continue providing a safe, creative, and empowering space for teens. Your donation allows us to bring in professional artists who mentor and inspire these young changemakers, offering them invaluable guidance and opportunities to explore new artistic mediums and methods.

    Every dollar you give helps to nurture a young person’s self-confidence, give them a voice, and connect them with a community that embraces who they are. By donating to Kennedy Heights Arts Center, you’re not just supporting the arts; you’re helping to create a world where everyone belongs, especially the next generation of artists, thinkers, and leaders.


    Join us in the art of belonging. Let’s build a world where creativity, love, and acceptance thrive—together.

    Donate Today.

     

  • The Art of Belonging: How Raquel Found Community Through Art

    • 2 December 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    As part of our annual campaign, “The Art of Belonging,” Kennedy Heights Arts Center is sharing stories that highlight individuals whose lives have been enriched through our programs —and how your support makes a difference. In this post, we share the inspiring journey of Raquel Sotelo, whose life was transformed by her creative expression and the support of the arts community.


    When Raquel first came to Cincinnati from Peru in 2020, she had no idea how much her life would change. What was supposed to be a short visit turned into an indefinite stay when COVID-19 travel restrictions kept her from returning home. In the span of a few months, Raquel lost her job in Peru, her relationship ended, and she found herself stranded in a foreign country. She was overwhelmed, isolated, and searching for a way to process her emotions.


    Art as a Tool for Healing

    One day, in an attempt to calm her mind, Raquel began painting small rocks she found in the local park. She decorated them with intricate designs and vibrant colors, using this simple creative activity as an outlet for her emotions. Then, something magical happened.

    Kennedy Heights resident Michael Thompson, a violin maker and a friend of the family Raquel was staying with, saw her painted rocks and asked, “Who is the artist?” Raquel shyly replied, “There are no artists here.” But Michael insisted, pointing to her rocks, “Did you paint this? You are an artist!”

    Though Raquel had never considered herself an artist—in Peru, she’d been a social worker—Michael saw her potential. He encouraged her to paint a violin, but she hesitated, feeling she wasn’t skilled enough. With Michael’s encouragement, she eventually took on the challenge. Despite not knowing where to buy paints, not speaking English fluently, and having to navigate a new city, Raquel poured herself into the project. Her colorful, intricate design on the violin caught the eye of those around her, and she began to wonder if perhaps, after all, she was an artist.

    Discovering Community at Kennedy Heights Arts Center

    Through Michael, Raquel discovered Kennedy Heights Arts Center (KHAC). When she stepped inside and saw the gallery and the community of artists there, something inside her awakened. She joined the Kennedy Artist Collective, a diverse group of creators who encouraged her and helped her feel at home. She began taking classes at KHAC, with ceramics becoming a favorite medium. For Raquel, working with clay was transformative, an experience that taught her about growth, patience, and possibility.

    At the Arts Center, Raquel’s sense of belonging grew as she connected with others, explored her artistic voice, and engaged in meaningful conversations about unity and diversity. These discussions inspired her to use art as a way of promoting healing and understanding—a concept that has since become central to her life’s work.


    Believing in Herself, Inspiring Others

    When a friend invited her to participate in the Norwood International Art Festival, Raquel was hesitant. “I’m not ready,” she thought. But with the encouragement of her new community, she took the leap. To her surprise and delight, she won first prize. The blue ribbon she received that day wasn’t just an award; it was a powerful affirmation that her art and her voice were valued.

    Since then, Raquel has gone on to exhibit her work in galleries throughout Cincinnati, including Kennedy Heights Arts Center, Wave Pool, and Gallery 708. She’s now sharing her gift with the community by teaching art workshops to children and adults in libraries, churches, and at KHAC itself. “Kennedy Heights Arts Center gave me so many opportunities to share my art and connect with others,” Raquel says. “Art made me feel included. I don’t feel like a stranger anymore.”

    For Raquel, art became more than just a creative outlet; it became a path to belonging. Her dream now is to help others discover the healing power of art, just as she has. She envisions creating more spaces for people to explore art as a tool for healing and connection.

    Help Us Build Community Through Art

    When you donate to Kennedy Heights Arts Center, you are helping make stories like Raquel’s possible. Your support provides a space for people from all walks of life to discover their creativity, connect with others, and find a sense of belonging. Through “The Art of Belonging” campaign, we are building a community where everyone is welcome, everyone has a voice, and everyone can thrive.

    Your gift can be the encouragement someone needs to believe in themselves. Together, let’s make more dreams come true and foster a community where everyone feels they belong.

    Donate today.

     

  • The Art of Belonging: Gee Horton’s Transformative Journey

    • 18 November 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    This season, Kennedy Heights Arts Center is thrilled to launch The Art of Belonging, our annual fund campaign supporting the transformational power of creative spaces. We’re celebrating through stories from artists and participants who’ve found a sense of home and purpose within our walls. One of the voices leading this conversation is artist Gee Horton, whose recent exhibition Chapter 2: A Subtle Farewell to the Inner Child is more than just an artistic achievement; it’s a personal exploration that resonated deeply with visitors.

    Holding Space for Belonging

    In Chapter 2, Gee Horton delved into the nuanced layers of identity, drawing from his own coming-of-age experiences as a Black man. This exhibit invited visitors to explore themes of reconciliation, forgiveness, and belonging in a way that is personal yet universal. “The idea of belonging was the central theme, the anchor of this project,” Gee explains.


    Throughout his exhibit, Gee weaves stories and imagery that encourage visitors to reflect on their own lives, their own histories, and the experiences that have shaped them. By centering the experience around belonging, Gee’s work reminds us of a simple truth: “We don’t become who we are alone – how we show up as adults is deeply connected to who we belong to.” He hopes that this realization brings viewers a sense of grace, love, and forgiveness—a pathway to healing.

    A Personal Conversation with Every Viewer

    One of the most profound aspects of Chapter 2 is the way Gee approached his relationship with the audience. He doesn’t just present his art; he invites each visitor into a dialogue, a conversation that feels deeply intimate. “Every person who views the work belongs to me,” he shares. “I have a responsibility to hold their hand, guide them, and have a personal conversation with them along the way.” This sense of personal connection creates a space where visitors feel seen, understood, and valued.


    The response to Chapter 2 has been extraordinary, with guests leaving heartfelt reflections in the gallery’s guest book and sharing stories that affirm the impact of the work. Local students cheered when touring the work, finding resonance in Gee’s exploration of self-discovery. “Reading their words and seeing their reactions reminds me why I do this,” Gee reflects. “It’s the joy of connecting through art, of seeing how it can touch lives and bring people closer to themselves and each other.”


    An Invaluable Partner


    For Gee, Kennedy Heights Arts Center has been a unique and invaluable partner in bringing Chapter 2 to life. “Kennedy Heights feels like home to me,” he says. “There is no other gallery or organization that would have allowed me to create this work; it couldn’t have happened anywhere else.” This space, he explains, is rare—a place that not only welcomes diverse artistic expression but fosters an environment where everyone feels at home.


    The Arts Center’s mission to build community through art has provided Gee and many other artists with the opportunity to share meaningful stories and engage audiences on a deep, personal level. In supporting artists like Gee, Kennedy Heights offers more than just a venue; it offers a space where artists and visitors alike can explore, connect, and heal together.


    Join Us in the Art of Belonging


    We invite you to support the Art of Belonging by giving to our annual fund campaign. Your contribution ensures that our space remains a haven for artists and a gathering place for community, where art becomes a bridge to understanding, healing, and connection. And every donation ensures that 100% of our programs remain free and accessible to those who need them most.


    Consider joining us in this journey, so that artists like Gee Horton—and the thousands of visitors who walk through our doors—can continue to experience the powerful impact of belonging through art.

    Donate today.

     

    photo credit: Dylan Firlie

  • CR8 Club: Fueling Creativity and Learning

    • 12 September 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    At Kennedy Heights Arts Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts to inspire creativity, build confidence and foster well-being. Our CR8 (pronounced “create”) Club after-school program at John P. Parker Elementary and the Academy of World Languages (AWL) is at the heart of this mission. With a focus on visual and performing arts, creative writing, and social emotional learning, the CR8 Club offers underserved students a chance to engage in a wide range of enriching activities, all while building critical life skills.

    The need for programs like CR8 Club has only grown since the COVID pandemic disrupted traditional learning environments. Many students experienced significant gaps in learning and social interaction, leaving them feeling disconnected. CR8 Club steps in to bridge that gap by providing a safe, supportive space for kids to reconnect, express themselves, and regain their social confidence through the arts.

    The Ohio Department of Education recognized the need for after-school enrichment programming to help students who were negatively impacted by the pandemic, especially in urban schools, and awarded Kennedy Heights Arts Center a two-year grant to implement the Cr8 Club at two Cincinnati Public Schools.

    The free after-school and summer program served 186 students in K-6th grade. 98% were students of color and 100% qualified for the federal free and reduced lunch program.

    As Shawndale Thomas, after-school program coordinator at John P. Parker, shared, “The pandemic left many students without essential social skills, and we wanted to make sure that the arts were a key part of rebuilding those skills.” The CR8 Club helps students not only develop their artistic abilities but also learn how to regulate their emotions, solve problems, and work together.

    Building Social and Emotional Skills through the Arts

    At the heart of CR8 Club is the intentional focus on social emotional learning (SEL). Through the arts, students are encouraged to express themselves, connect with others, and develop emotional intelligence—all skills that are more important now than ever. Shawndale emphasized “We wanted to make sure the arts were not just an add-on but a core part of supporting students’ learning and social development.” 

    In partnership with nonprofit The Well, the program incorporates SEL into every aspect of its curriculum. Whether students are learning theater, visual arts, or dance, they are also developing skills like empathy, communication, and self-awareness.

    Carolyn Youngquist, after-school enrichment manager at Academy of World Languages, noted, “Our goal is to see increased engagement in both the arts and learning, helping students rev up for the social world again after such a long time apart.” Results show a marked improvement in students’ problem-solving abilities and social interactions as they progress through the program.

    CR8 Club’s success in boosting students’ social emotional well-being is reflected in the data. A year-end report showed that 81% of students ended the program demonstrating “typical” or “strong” social skills for their age, up from 57% at the start of the year. The integrated approach ensures that students are not only growing artistically but also emotionally, preparing them for life beyond the classroom.

    You can hear more about this vital component from Shawndale and Carolyn in the following video.

     

    The Power of Creative Expression: A Look at the Lion King Jr.

    One of the highlights of the CR8 Club last year was our production of Disney’s The Lion King Jr. at John P. Parker School. What made this project special was the way it engaged every student in the program—whether they were acting and singing, dancing, creating costumes, designing sets, or handling stage management, each student had a role to play. Students worked tirelessly with professional teaching artists including Jason Holmes, David Choate/Revolution Dance, and Kashia Ellis-Taylor to bring the show to life, with the project culminating in a heartwarming performance in May.

    The production was more than just an artistic endeavor. For many students, it was their first time participating in such a large-scale collaborative project. Every aspect of the performance was an opportunity to build skills—artistic and social alike. The collaboration across disciplines—choir, dance, theatre, visual arts—fostered a sense of teamwork and unity among the students.

    The impact of The Lion King Jr. production extended beyond the performance. Students who had initially been shy or disengaged began to open up as they saw their contributions come to life on stage. One student, Syia, a kindergartener on the autism spectrum, experienced a dramatic improvement in her communication skills throughout the process. The project gave her an opportunity to connect with her peers and build her confidence in ways that traditional classroom settings hadn’t.

    Behind-the-scenes footage from the production showcases just how engaged the students were in bringing this magical show to life.

    Transforming Lives One Art Class at a Time

    CR8 Club’s impact goes beyond artistic expression; it’s about personal growth. Through a combination of art, social emotional learning, and academic enrichment, the program is helping students develop essential life skills that will serve them long after they leave the classroom.

    Take Christopher, for example, a naturally gifted musician who found his passion for performance through the CR8 Club. Not only did he wow audiences in the Lion King Jr. production, he was recruited to join the prestigious Cincinnati Boy Choir, a testament to the talent nurtured through the program.

    Another example is Jolie and Josiah, twin siblings who joined the program feeling shy and disconnected from their peers. Over time, CR8 Club gave them a safe space to build friendships and explore their creative interests. Through activities like painting and puppet-making, they were able to express themselves in new ways and develop a sense of belonging.

    These stories are a powerful reminder of how the arts can transform lives, especially for students who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities.

    Data from our year-end report underscores the program’s effectiveness. Students who participated in CR8 Club had significantly higher school attendance rates—92.16% compared to 87.95% for students not in the program​. Moreover, 76% of participants showed consistent or improved engagement throughout the year, demonstrating how the program keeps students excited and invested in their learning.


    Join Us in Supporting the Future of Arts Education

    CR8 Club is a shining example of how the arts can inspire, empower, and transform young lives. Through creative projects and meaningful community partnerships, we’re helping students develop not only as artists but as confident, emotionally aware individuals. The impact is clear—students are more engaged, more connected, and better prepared to face the world with confidence and creativity.

    If you’ve been moved by the stories of transformation happening at Kennedy Heights Arts Center, we invite you to be part of the change. Whether by volunteering or making a donation, your support ensures that programs like CR8 Club continue to thrive and grow, providing more students with the opportunities they need to succeed.

    Donate today.

  • Building A Future Without Barriers

    • 10 June 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    When I first stepped into this role 16 years ago, I could never have imagined the incredible journey that awaited us. At that time, I was the sole full-time staff member of this fledgling organization with an old house and a big vision.

    Fast forward to today, and I am thrilled to share how far we have come: 17 dedicated staff members, two beautifully renovated buildings, a wide range of innovative programming, and a thriving creative community.

    Reflecting on the past two decades, there are countless milestones that stand out:

    • Saving the Kennedy Mansion: Our grassroots effort to save an historic building from demolition and establish an arts center for everyone.
    • Developing the Cultural Campus: A 5+ year, $2.5 million community-driven initiative to transform a long-vacant grocery store into a vibrant cultural campus, revitalizing our neighborhood.
    • Reclaiming Public Spaces: After two homicides in our local park, partnering with residents to create Play in the Park, a beloved summer tradition (now in its 11th year) offering free arts events. This initiative reclaimed the park and dramatically reduced crime in the area.
    • Engaging and Connecting Community Residents: Numerous projects with artists-in-residence have connected diverse neighbors through public art, dance, choral music, poetry, creative writing, community-devised theatre, filmmaking, and more.
    • Expanding Opportunities for Youth: Partnerships with public schools and libraries, the jazz academy, teen programs, summer camps, and classes have nurtured and empowered thousands of young people through creativity.

     

    Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, we never stopped delivering on our mission. We provided free creativity kits to thousands of school kids, partnered with artists to create joyful neighborhood installations and an outdoor art gallery, delivered handmade care packages to seniors in nursing homes, and produced pop-up arts experiences on city streets that residents could enjoy safely from their homes.

    What makes a community truly thrive? It’s not just about economic development; it’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued and welcome. Many people refer to Kennedy Heights Arts Center as a “home,” a place where they are seen and heard. This quality of belonging and community is what makes our Arts Center so special.

    Our unwavering commitment to inclusion remains at the heart of Kennedy Heights Arts Center. Since its inception, we have been dedicated to breaking down barriers to arts participation. I am proud that 100 percent of our programs are accessible to everyone—free or by sliding scale—ensuring that the enriching experience of the arts remains within reach of all individuals, regardless of financial means.

    On the occasion of our 20th Anniversary, I am thrilled to share Beyond 20: Arts Without Barriers, an initiative to sustain our founding promise of inclusion and accessibility for generations to come. We invite you to join us in embarking on this new chapter, reaffirming our dedication that the arts are truly for everyone.


    Beyond 20 isn’t just about sustaining the status quo; it’s about propelling KHAC into an even brighter future. Our goal is to establish a $2 million Endowment to ensure that our programming remains open to all, regardless of ability to pay, always.


    We recognize that true accessibility goes beyond mere physical presence. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and empowered to express themselves. Alongside the endowment goal, we are establishing an Inclusion Fund to support capital improvements to the 150-year-old Kennedy Mansion, as well as training and program enhancements, to enhance accessibility for individuals with disabilities.


    I invite you to learn more about the Beyond 20: Arts Without Barriers campaign and how you can help. Your support will make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals who may otherwise be excluded from the arts.

    Beyond 20: Arts Without Barriers Digital Brochure by Kennedy Heights Arts Center

    Through Beyond 20, we’re not just building a legacy; we’re building a community where creativity flourishes, unencumbered by barriers of any kind.

    To kick off the campaign, we set an initial goal of raising $150,000 at our Cheers to 20 Years anniversary event in May–and I am thrilled to say we exceeded that goal! To date, we have received donations totaling $183,388. What a fantastic start, but we need your help!

    Please join us in ensuring Arts with Barriers, now and in the future, by giving today.

    Thank you for being with us on this journey, and here’s to the next 20 years and beyond!

    Ellen

    DONATE TODAY

  • Building a Creative Community

    • 22 March 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    As I sit down to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve embarked on together over the past two decades, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride. It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since the Kennedy Heights Arts Center first opened its doors to the world, and 16 years since I joined this incredible organization as its Executive Director.

    Wow, what a ride it has been!

    Photo Credit: Will Jones


    When I think back to our humble beginnings as a grassroots volunteer effort, it’s truly awe-inspiring to see how far we’ve come. From those fledgling early days, we’ve grown into a vibrant, multi-faceted organization that serves as a beacon of creativity and inclusion for our community.

    Now I look around and see: 17 dedicated staff members, two beautifully renovated buildings (each one a testament to the power of revitalization), and a budget of over $1 million dollars. But perhaps even more impressive is the impact we’ve had on the lives of the 10,000+ people who walk through our doors each year.

    Raise the Heights parade © 2015 Malinda Hartong, Hartong Digital Media LLC


    The Arts Center has enriched lives and strengthened communities through such innovative programming as:

    • exhibitions in two galleries showcasing the work of local, regional, and international artists which spark dialogue on social issues of our time
    • a wide range of arts education classes for both youth and adults, and our beloved summer camp program which welcomes over 350 kids each summer for a season of fun, friendship, and artistic exploration
    • arts integration and after-school enrichment programs in three Cincinnati Public Schools which leverage the power of the arts to fuel creativity and learning for 1,000 underserved students
    • our award-winning jazz academy which engages 140 CPS student musicians in grades 4-12 five days a week after-school, who have performed on stages from NYC to Barcelona
    • artist residencies, which pair diverse artists from all disciplines with residents to create collaborative community art projects that foster relationships and bridge cultural divides
    • hundreds of free cultural festivals, performances, and events that expand access to the arts and create more vibrant communities

     

    Photo Credit: Will Jones


    Even when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the closure of arts venues, Kennedy Heights Arts Center didn’t stop delivering on its mission—we reached deeper into the community to keep creativity alive. Working remotely, the KHAC team distributed 2,780 Creativity Kits to CPS students to keep local youth engaged and learning at home; collaborated with artists and residents to create art installations in the neighborhoods communicating messages of hope, and pop-up art and music experiences on city streets that residents could enjoy safely from their yards; sent Joy Deliveries to area seniors containing handmade gifts created by residents to combat social isolation; and amplified diverse voices in an outdoor, drive-through gallery and online teen ‘zine.

     

    Photo Credit: Will Jones


    Perhaps what I’m most proud of is our unwavering commitment to equity and inclusion. At Kennedy Heights Arts Center, we believe that art is for everyone, which is why 100 percent of our programming is always accessible to all, regardless of financial means. Whether it’s through free events, sliding-scale-based classes, or community partnerships, we’re dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts.

    As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for your unwavering support, dedication, and passion. It’s because of you – our incredible community of artists, volunteers, donors, and advocates – that we’ve been able to achieve so much over the past two decades.

    I invite you to join us in raising a glass to 20 years of creativity and community at Kennedy Heights Arts Center by reserving your free ticket for our Cheers to 20 Years Anniversary Celebration on May 9th. Additionally, consider supporting us with a donation of $20 for 20 or a sponsorship, contributing to our next 20 years of building a vibrant creative community.

    With heartfelt gratitude,

    Ellen Muse
    Executive Director

     

  • From House to Hub

    • 21 February 2024
    • Posted By Ellen Muse


    In the heart of Cincinnati, the Kennedy Heights Arts Center has grown and thrived for two decades, showing us the power of creativity to build community. As we celebrate our 20-year anniversary, this isn’t just marking time—it’s a look back at a remarkable journey.

    (l to r) KHAC board members Jim Zarnowiecki and Richard Cooke talk with supporters Carl Lindner, Jr. and Robert Lindner

     

    I. The Birth of an Arts Center

    Our story starts with a simple but daring idea. The community of Kennedy Heights envisioned turning a historic house, nearly demolished to make way for a car wash, into a vibrant hub for arts and culture. This wasn’t just about providing a platform for local artists; it was about creating a welcoming space where diverse residents could gather and forge connections.

    In 2004, neighborhood volunteers, with support from the City of Cincinnati and local donors, successfully acquired the large 19th-century Victorian house. This house, once a funeral home and the former residence of neighborhood founder Lewis Kennedy, became the cornerstone for what would later be known as the Kennedy Heights Arts Center. Over the next four years, volunteers worked tirelessly to raise money and renovate the distressed building, launch programs, and build the foundation of the nonprofit organization.

    In a chance meeting, the Lindner brothers, Carl Lindner Jr. and Robert Lindner, local business leaders and philanthropists, emerged as key figures in the Arts Center’s journey. This encounter paved the way for a lasting relationship and a brighter future for the fledgling arts center.

    As boys attending elementary school just north of the Kennedy mansion on Montgomery Road, Robert and Carl created cherished memories. Walking about a mile home from their parents’ Silverton residence, they played on the grounds of the mansion. Inspired by fond recollections of their early years, the Lindners had a shared aspiration to do something significant for the Arts Center. This desire materialized through a series of substantial gifts, each in the six-figure range, solidifying their commitment to the center’s enduring success. Their generous financial support had a transformative impact on shaping the community’s cultural legacy.

    Navigating challenges and fueled by the community’s collective determination, the Kennedy Heights Arts Center emerged not just as a community arts center but as a resilient pillar in the heart of the city. It thrived and blossomed into a vibrant hub of creativity for diverse people of all ages. These echoes of its humble grassroots beginnings persist through the years, serving as a living testament to the enduring vibrancy of Kennedy Heights.

     

    II. The First Decade

    As the Kennedy Heights Arts Center opened its doors, the initial decade unfolded as a demonstration of deep collaboration, community-building, and growing impact. Beyond serving as a venue, the Arts Center emerged as a dynamic force, leaving an indelible mark on individuals, families, and the community at large.

    The Arts Center hosted exhibitions, art classes, summer camps, and community events for people of all ages. Within its walls, the laughter of children immersed in transformative arts education programs mingled with spirited conversations sparked by poetry readings and cultural festivals. True to its inclusive mission, the organization made, and kept, an unwavering commitment to accessibility, ensuring that all of its programs are accessible to everyone regardless of income. 

    Ellen Muse, a guiding force from the start, played a pivotal role during this formative period, providing leadership and vision that fueled the Arts Center’s growth. Serving as the Founding Executive Director, Ellen’s multifaceted contributions extended beyond expectations; she became a community catalyst, advocating for the arts, and providing visionary leadership that propelled the Arts Center into a dynamic force not just within Kennedy Heights but throughout the region. Her impassioned commitment to the organization was instrumental during these foundational years, nurturing an environment where creativity thrived, and community bonds were strengthened.

    As the Kennedy Heights Arts Center developed, it did more than open its doors; it became a cornerstone of community enrichment. Through a wide range of programs for diverse people of all ages, the Arts Center has woven a vibrant tapestry in the neighborhood, promising a future where creativity and inclusivity continue to thrive.

    III: Expansion and Transformation

    As the Kennedy Heights Arts Center ventured into its second decade, a pivotal moment unfolded with the acquisition of a nearby, vacant Kroger building—a landmark event that reshaped the organization’s trajectory. In partnership with the Kennedy Heights Development Corporation and other nonprofits, the former Kroger underwent a remarkable metamorphosis, culminating in the birth of the Kennedy Heights Cultural Campus in 2015.

    The renovated structure, which includes the KHAC Lindner Annex, stands as a testament to the community’s enduring commitment to creativity and cultural enrichment. The Annex houses a tapestry of artistic endeavors, featuring artist studios pulsating with inspiration, versatile event spaces fostering the performing arts, a jazz academy for local students, and galleries that serve as vibrant canvases for diverse artistic expressions. Extending the Arts Center’s original confines, the annex not only provided space for new programs–more than doubling the number of people served–it transformed the landscape of the neighborhood.

    The Lindner Annex wasn’t just a physical expansion; it was a manifestation of the Arts Center’s evolution, resonating with the grassroots spirit that fueled its inception. This chapter underscores the community’s ability to transform vacant spaces into dynamic hubs with arts at the core, and the enduring legacy of the Kennedy Heights Arts Center.

    IV. Cheers to 20 Years: Celebrating the Milestone

    To celebrate the incredible journey of the Kennedy Heights Arts Center, a special event, “Cheers to 20 Years,” will unfold on May 9, 2024 in the KHAC Lindner Annex. 

    Mark your calendars and join us for an evening filled with heartwarming performances, engaging stories, interactive exhibits, and a captivating showcase of the Arts Center’s transformative journey. As we raise our glasses to honor the past, present, and future of the Kennedy Heights Arts Center, let us celebrate its enduring legacy crafted through creativity, diversity, and accessibility.

  • A Year of Opening Doors

    • 20 December 2023
    • Posted By Ellen Muse

    The holidays are a time for looking back and looking forward together. As we approach the end of the year, I want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support.


    2023 was truly a transformative year! Together, we’ve opened doors to creativity and positively impacted the lives of 9,364 people of all ages through 683 free and sliding scale arts experiences. With your support, 100% of our programs continued to be accessible to everyone.


    Unlocking Potential: This year, our Cincinnati Jazz Academy continued to empower young musicians, providing free instruments, transportation, and instruction to diverse students. Your support helped these students achieve outstanding success, winning accolades at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival and setting the stage for even greater achievements in the years to come.


    Inspiring Innovation: Through partnerships with local schools, our innovative arts education programs reached over 1,200 underserved students. From the Cr8 Club after-school program to arts integration projects in classrooms, your contributions made it possible for students to engage with the arts to foster creativity, academic skills, and social-emotional well-being.


    Creating Community: The Vibrancy Fellowship, our unique residency program for emerging BIPOC artists, created powerful connections within our community. As we invested in these artists, they, in turn, enriched our community, creating brave spaces and inspiring positive change.


    Just as a key unlocks a door, your support unlocks a world of endless possibilities through the arts. Your generosity enables us to continue providing free, high-quality arts programs for diverse individuals in our community.


    You Hold the Key: As we strive to reach our goal of $60,000 for the KHAC Annual Fund by December 31, we invite you to consider making a donation today. Your contribution ensures that 100 percent of our programs remain accessible to everyone.

    GIVE TODAY


    Thank you for being a vital part of our creative community. Together, we’ll continue opening doors to a brighter, more creative future.

  • Tuesday - Friday: 10:00 - 5:00
  • Saturday: 11:00 - 4:00
  • Closed Sunday - Monday