In the heart of downtown Kirkland, a quiet transformation is making waves. The Kirkland Arts Center (KAC), once known primarily as a traditional gallery space, has reimagined itself as a dynamic, inclusive hub for creativity—thanks in part to the support of the Kirkland Community Foundation’s 2024 Ignite Kirkland grant.
This shift isn’t just about programming—it’s about purpose. Aligned with the Foundation’s Arts & Culture Area of Impact, KAC has embraced a bold new vision to celebrate diversity, foster connection, and empower creativity at every level. And the results speak volumes.
In just the first six months of 2024, the revitalized Kirkland Arts Center hosted more than 25 events and welcomed nearly 2,000 visitors—a dramatic increase in engagement that reflects both the quality and inclusivity of its offerings.
But the true impact goes far beyond attendance. This year marked a historic milestone for the center: its first solo exhibition by an African American female painter, a powerful moment of representation and recognition. The show drew praise not only for its artistic merit but for its cultural significance—signaling a new chapter in the center’s commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices.
Other standout events included LGBTQ+ Pride art markets, which brought together queer artists, makers, and allies in celebration of identity and expression. These markets weren’t just commercial—they were communal, offering a space where creativity and belonging could flourish side by side.
Educational partnerships with local colleges and community organizations have further expanded the center’s reach, inviting students and emerging artists into the fold and creating pathways for mentorship, collaboration, and growth.
Craig Hurd-McKenney, KAC’s grants coordinator, puts it simply, “When we make the space open, accessible, comforting, and welcoming, people will come. They do come, because that’s important in the artist journeys that we’re seeing.”
This philosophy is at the heart of the center’s transformation, and it’s not just about curating art—it’s about curating experiences that invite participation, spark dialogue, and build community.
From gallery walls to classroom tables, every corner of the center is being reimagined as a place where individuals can fully participate, collaborate, and thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a curious newcomer, there’s a place for you at KAC.
The 2024 grant from the Foundation provided more than financial support—it offered validation, visibility, and momentum. As part of the Ignite grant portfolio, the investment reflects a broader commitment to nurturing the creative heartbeat of the city.
This strategic investment helped Kirkland Arts Center:
The grant also served as a catalyst for deeper community engagement, drawing in new residents, longtime locals, and visitors alike. It’s a reminder that when we invest in creativity, we invest in connection.
At its core, the Kirkland Arts Center believes that art is a powerful tool for community transformation. It’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about empathy, storytelling, and shared experience.
This belief is reflected in every aspect of the center’s work. Exhibitions are curated with intention, highlighting themes of identity, resilience, and social justice. Events are designed to be interactive and inclusive, inviting dialogue and discovery. Educational programs prioritize accessibility, ensuring that cost, background, or ability are never barriers to participation.
By centering diversity, equity, and inclusion, KAC is helping shape a cultural landscape that reflects the richness of Kirkland’s community—and welcomes everyone to be part of it.
The transformation at the arts center is part of a larger movement to build a creative ecosystem in Kirkland—one that supports artists, engages audiences, and strengthens civic life. And the Kirkland Community Foundation’s Arts & Culture Area of Impact funding engages with local creative efforts to do exactly that. Through targeted grants, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, the Foundation is helping local organizations and nonprofits focused on arts and culture reimagine what’s possible.
The success of KAC demonstrates the ripple effect of this approach. One grant led to dozens of events, thousands of visitors, and countless moments of inspiration. It also laid the groundwork for future growth—new collaborations, expanded programming, and deeper community ties.
As 2024 continues, the Foundation and KAC will building on this momentum. As we look to 2025, the Foundation will continue to seek out partnerships that align with our Arts & Culture areas of Impact, while plans at KAC will include:
Both organizations will be guided by the idea that it is possibly to empower creativity and connection at every level.
The transformation at Kirkland Arts Center is a testament to what’s possible when community, creativity, and commitment come together. It’s also a call to action.
Whether you’re an artist, a donor, a volunteer, or a neighbor, there’s a role for you in this story. By providing a new donation to Kirkland Community Foundation’s area of impact funding, with continued support of our upcoming Ignite 2025 campaign, or by volunteering with a local arts organizations directly, you help build a Kirkland that’s vibrant, inclusive, and inspired. Together, we’re not just funding art—we’re igniting creativity, one grant at a time.
Neighbors helping Neighbors. Launched in fall 2024, the Kirkland Community Foundation’s inaugural Ignite Kirkland campaign united residents, nonprofits, and businesses to fund 28 impactful local projects—granting $45,000, empowering 26 organizations, and igniting a lasting spirit of generosity and collaboration across the community.
KCF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
EIN 46-4931717
Website support. generously provided by Sitetherapy.net