Belger Crane Yard Studios
Belger Crane Yard Studios, located in Kansas City’s East Crossroads neighborhood, is a renowned creative community and artist residency space founded to foster artistic development and innovation. Originally known as Red Star Studios, it has a rich history of supporting ceramics and visual arts, providing artists like Andrew Gilliatt a platform to develop their craft through mentorship and collaborative projects. The studio’s vibrant environment encourages experimentation with traditional techniques blended with modern innovation, contributing significantly to Kansas City’s reputation as a hub for contemporary art. Its commitment to nurturing artists and showcasing their work continues to make it a vital part of the local and national arts community.
News Summary
Ceramic artist Andrew Gilliatt reflects on his transformative years in Kansas City, which were marked by professional growth and self-discovery. His experiences at Red Star Studios helped shape his artistic voice and inspired his notable works, including a distinctive vase influenced by ancient pottery. Gilliatt acknowledges the significant impact of the city’s creative community and continues to maintain a connection to it through his work available at the Belger Arts Center.
Kansas City – Ceramic artist Andrew Gilliatt reflects on his pivotal years spent in Kansas City, crediting the period as one of immense self-discovery and professional growth. His experiences, which he describes as a blend of “kismet, fortune, or dumb luck,” provided profound influences on his art and career trajectory.
Gilliatt relocated to Kansas City for an internship and artist residency at Red Star Studios, now known as Belger Crane Yard Studios, located in the East Crossroads neighborhood. Before his move, he had minimal knowledge of the city, but he quickly immersed himself in its vibrant creative community, learning from established artists and shaping his artistic voice.
Currently based in Bowling Green, Ohio, Gilliatt continues to have a connection with Kansas City. His ceramics can be purchased at the Belger Arts Center, located at 2100 Walnut St., Kansas City, Missouri. His body of work often serves as a dual expression of a journal entry and a love letter to the inspirational art he admires.
Artistic Inspirations and Notable Works
Within his portfolio, Gilliatt has crafted a notable pink round vase, iteratively designed for spring florals and Mother’s Day arrangements. This particular piece draws its inspiration from the pottery of the Han Dynasty of ancient China, combined with nature-inspired decorative techniques typical of the art nouveau movement. His approach embodies a desire to “do old things in new ways,” continuously seeking to innovate while paying homage to traditional forms.
Kansas City’s Creative Community
During his time in Kansas City, Gilliatt recognized the importance of the city’s artistic community. He benefitted from the mentorship of seasoned artists, exposing him to varied techniques and philosophies that enhanced his craft. The collaborative environment enabled him to explore new dimensions of creativity and redefine his artistic practice.
Current Availability and Social Media
Gilliatt’s works are accessible to the public at the Belger Arts Center, reflecting the artist’s continuous commitment to sharing his creations. Enthusiasts can also engage with his artistic journey through social media, where he shares insights and showcases his ceramics on Instagram under the handle @andrewgilliat.
Looking Ahead
As Gilliatt reflects on his transformative years in Kansas City, he acknowledges the lasting impact the experience has had on his artistic identity. His story stands as a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and the embracing of serendipity in one’s personal and professional journey. The city not only helped catalyze his creative process but also left an indelible mark on the trajectory of his career as a ceramic artist.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Kansas City Magazine: In With The Old
- Wikipedia: Kansas City
- Kansas City Magazine: Andrew Gilliatt’s Works
- Google Search: ceramics in Kansas City
- Kansas City Magazine: The East Crossroads Art Scene
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ceramics
- Kansas City Magazine: Local Artists
- Google Search: Belger Crane Yard Studios
- Kansas City Magazine: Art
- Google News: Kansas City art community
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
