Throughout 2025, KAF’s Programs & Partnerships Department strengthened the Foundation’s mission to build community through creativity, access, and equitable opportunity. This year marked a period of refinement and measurable growth—expanding artist residencies, deepening community partnerships, and reaffirming the Foundation’s role as both a cultural anchor and civic collaborator in the St. Louis region.
Some of the year’s community building highlights included:
- Kranzberg Artist in Residency Program (KAIR): KAF Residencies have evolved into a self-sustaining ecosystem of growth—serving as a national-standard model for artist development rooted in equity and collaboration and continuing to create pathways for lasting success.
- Saint Louis County Flag Redesign: In partnership with Elasticity marketing agency, KAF coordinated the St. Louis County Flag redesign, demonstrating how artists can shape civic identity through creativity and collaboration, with KAIR visual art resident José Garza and former resident Hayveyah McGowan leading the winning design.
- MATI Community Ticket Program: In 2025, the Community Ticket Program deepened equitable access to the arts across St. Louis City, County, and East St. Louis—distributing 939 three-day passes through 40 partner organizations.
- Tornado Response & Equitable Access: When the May 16, 2025 tornado struck North St. Louis, the Foundation’s network became a crucial response tool. Team members—both on and off the clock—mobilized across neighborhoods, supporting recovery efforts with 4theVille, The People’s Response, and community partners in The Maker’s District on Delmar. To bring some joy to those most affected, KAF allocated and distributed 2500 MATI Festival passes to residents in impacted ZIP codes.
Looking ahead, the Programs & Partnerships department will continue to prioritize depth over scale—refining the systems that strengthen creative equity, expand infrastructure, and build lasting trust in the community.
*Photo Credit: Taylor Marrie
