Contents:

Living With Our History

During the most recent meeting of the Missouri Humanities Council in Kansas City, Council member Delia Gillis arranged a visit to one of that city’s dynamic community arts venues, the Vine Street Studio. The gallery, which showcases the work of African American artists, was presenting pieces by brothers Lonnie and Robert Powell. This wonderful exhibition gave us an opportunity to meet the artists and spend some time speaking with them. I was particularly struck by Robert Powell’s comments as we discussed his work as a sculptor. He described what he did as being a “storyteller” through his art; and he mentioned that the way that he executed a piece was to sit on the ground with the wood or stone he was working on cradled between his legs–as he put it, “the way my forefathers did.” Read More…

Immersion Excursion

The crackling fire in the hearth intensified the already oppressive heat of the tavern kitchen as ladies in 1850s style dresses bent over to stir the beans simmering in the iron pot suspended over it. A gentle and merciful breeze caressed the faces and hands of helpers seated at a table next to the kitchen window as they sliced fresh baked bread for the dinner about to be served. For those attempting to cool off during a break from their chores on the porch, relief was found not only on the comfortable benches, but in absorbing the wonderful smells that promised a hearty meal after hours of labor. Read More…

Attention Preschoolers! Vote Now!

The campaign is on. No, I am not talking about the politicians who are vying for our attention as summer turns to fall. I’m referring to the election where the  candidates include a dog, a pout-pout fish, a horse, rabbits, pigs, and dust bunnies (to name a few!), and the voters are preschoolers.  The race for the 2010 Missouri Building Block Picture Book Award is on, and your child can be a part of the excitement. Read More…

New Harmonies: Barry and Trenton County Exhibit

This summer two Missouri communities have come together to share the stories of their musical heritage. Cassville and Trenton, Missouri, have each played host to the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street exhibit, “New Harmonies” and in so doing have uncovered their own rich and melodious stories. Read More…

Missouri Humanities Council Receives A Grant From Target Stores, for READ From The START Program

The Missouri Humanities Council announced a partnership with Target in recognition of MHC’s efforts to share the joy of reading and storytelling through the READ from the START program. Target stores in Ballwin, Branson, Cape Girardeau, Florissant, Wentzville, Dardenne Prairie, Columbia, Jefferson City, Independence and St. Charles are awarded $2000 each to be used in their communities for a READ from the START program. Read More…

Honoring the 2010 Governor’s Humanities Award Winners

The State of Missouri and the Missouri Humanities Council recognize four individuals and two organizations for their exceptional contributions as ambassadors of the humanities. The 2010 Governor’s Humanities Awards will honor Missouri individuals and organizations for excellence in education, exemplary community achievements and distinguished literary achievements on Oct. 13 at Stephens College in Columbia, Mo. These awards are based on nominations from colleagues, students, associates and the general public. Read More…

Missouri Humanities Council Grants Awarded

Title: Footsteps into the World Beneath (Part 1)

Organization: Cave Archaeology Investigation and Research

Description: Documentation of prehistoric footprints, rock art, and bear tracks in a cave north of Springfield, MO

Awarded: $1,950.00 Read More…

Missouri Humanities Board News

After many years of dedicated service as a member and officer of the Missouri Humanities Council, Jim Tanner (Liberty) is stepping down as Chairman of the organization. We’re going to miss Jim and we wish him well. Read More…