Youth Artists Initiative · 18th & Vine Arts Festival
Little hands.
Big ideas.
A welcoming space for kids to imagine, experiment and make something of their own. Join YAI this November for a free afternoon of hands-on art.
Sign up your young artistKindergarten–6th grade · All supplies included
In partnership
with ArtsTech
Over 100 kids
have taken part in YAI in 2026.
- When
- Saturday, November 72026 · 1–2:30 p.m. Central
Pick up children by 2:30 p.m. - Who
- Kindergarten–6th gradeAll experience levels welcome
- Where
- Keystone Community Corporation800 E. 18th St. · Kansas City, MO 64108
- Cost
- Free to participateArt supplies included
This November, we’re making
A little gratitude.
A whole lot of creativity.
What makes you smile? Who helps you grow? Kids will turn those little moments of gratitude into a colorful, three-dimensional tree to take home.
Twist & build
Shape pipe cleaners into a tree trunk and branches, then give your tree a home in a mini pot.
Reflect & decorate
Add autumn-colored paper leaves with notes about the people, places and things you’re thankful for.
Make it your own
Choose your colors, arrange your branches and bring your own ideas to every detail.
Along the way, young artists explore shape, three-dimensional form and balance while practicing fine motor skills and building creative confidence.
Meet your teaching artist
Tia Thomas
Kansas City artist · Fashicon Artistry
A Kansas City native, artist and creative entrepreneur, Tia brings fashion and fine art together through bold mixed-media work. She encourages young artists to explore, try new things and find their own creative voice.
That’s the heart of YAI: creativity, mentorship and cultural expression, with room for every child’s imagination.
From our past programs
Creativity looks
good on them.
Real moments from previous YAI activities at Keystone. New projects, the same joy of making.
Photos show previous program activities; November’s featured project is the Gratitude Tree.
For parents & guardians
A few things
to know.
Does a parent or guardian need to stay?
No. Parents and guardians are not required to stay during the 1–2:30 p.m. program. Please include your contact information when registering and pick up your child by 2:30 p.m.
Does my child need art experience or supplies?
No experience is needed, and all supplies are included. Bring curiosity and clothes your child is comfortable creating in.
How many children can take part?
Our sessions usually welcome 20–30 children. Submit the form below to request a place; our team will confirm your child’s registration.
Who is this session for?
This November session is designed for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. A parent or guardian should complete the registration form.
Will photos and videos be taken?
Yes. Children will be photographed and videoed during the program for educational, promotional and reporting purposes. A parent or guardian must agree to this as part of registration.
November 7 · Free art session
Their next big idea
starts here.
Parents and guardians, use the form below to sign up your young artist for YAI at Keystone. Our team will follow up to confirm your child’s place.
Required parent agreement: Children will be photographed and videoed for educational, promotional and reporting purposes. Parents or guardians must agree when registering and arrange pickup by 2:30 p.m.
Complete the registration form below
❋
Register your young artist.
November 7, 2026 · 1–2:30 p.m.
Complete one form for each child in kindergarten–6th grade. Our team will contact you to confirm their place.
Free to attend. All supplies included. Parents do not need to stay; pickup is required by 2:30 p.m.
Children will be photographed and videoed. Parent/guardian agreement to media participation and pickup is required.