Art Center

Mattie Rhodes Art Center originated from the Craft Learning Center, established in 1971 by a group of Catholic college students in Kansas City’s Westside neighborhood to address educational problems among youth. At the urging of United Way, Mattie Rhodes Memorial Society and the Craft Learning Center merged in 1986.

Mattie Rhodes Art Center offers high quality visual art education programs that awaken creative spirits, enhance self-esteem, and teach valuable problem-solving skills. We believe that the arts should be a basic and integral part of every individual’s growth and development. Our center offers a variety of opportunities for both children and adults throughout the year.

After-School Art Program
Mattie Rhodes Art Center’s After-School Art Program serves elementary school students in grades K through 5. Classes are held Tuesday through Friday from 3:30-5:30pm throughout the school year. Scholarships are available for those who qualify.

Spring and Summer Art Camps
Mattie Rhodes Art Center’s four-day art camps are designed for children ages five through twelve. Scholarships are available for those who qualify. For more information or to register click here.

Educational Fieldtrips
Mattie Rhodes Art Center is a wonderful place to bring community and school groups for a unique art education experience. We specialize in pre-school through school age students, but can accommodate students of all ages. Fieldtrips include hands-on art activities for a minimum of 10 and maximum of 40 students at a cost of $5.00 per person. Reservations required. Click here for more information.

Classes and Workshops 
Mattie Rhodes Art Center offers special classes and cultural workshops for children, adults and families who enjoy expressing themselves creatively in a positive environment.  For a list of upcoming workshops click here.

Cultural Heritage Events
Mattie Rhodes Center supports a number of annual Latino cultural heritage events in the Kansas City area, including Azteca’s Cinco de Mayo Parade and Festival, Fiesta in the Heartland at Crown Center, Fiesta Hispana, Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), and Día de los Niños (Day of the Child).

Art Center Outreach
We can bring any art lesson, activity, or experience that normally would be available at the Art Center to you. Pre-school through middle school age students can benefit from this program. If you can’t come to us at the Art Center we will bring the Art Center to you!  Click here for more information.

Birthday Parties
Mattie Rhodes Art Center offers birthday parties for children, which includes two art activities and space for group activities. A $10.00 per child fee includes all materials and party space for two hours.

Location and Contact Information:
Jenny Mendez, Art Center Director
915 W. 17th Street
Kansas City, MO 64108
(816) 581-5635
Email: jmendez@mattierhodes.org