Bohemian Sage Gallery Hosts Local Art Events, Classes, and Community in Excelsior Springs, Mo.

by Claire Alexander

Walking into the Bohemian Sage gallery in downtown Excelsior Springs is like walking into a ray of local sunshine. The space is filled from floor to ceiling with local artwork and merchandise. The slight aroma of fresh paint hangs in the air, alluring to the browsing artist and intriguing to the uninitiated visitor. After navigating through the works, marveling over intricate paintings full of color and precision, along with bracelets, necklaces, and witches’ bells, visitors will find themselves in a functional studio, the source of the underlying aroma. The owners, Kat McKown and Laurie Ahart, greet you with a smile and are more than happy to describe their operation. Judging from the authentic connection and passion for art and teaching, it’s likely they have never met a stranger.

It’s a down-to-earth approach to art that sets one at ease, and it’s easy to tell that they not only have a passion for art but care about their contributing artists. After asking about the local creators, they fervently dig through drawers, handing out cards for each one they can find and talking about pieces on the wall with a smile. And there are a lot of artists in their community, over thirty. But it hasn’t been easy to maintain; they explain that shopping habits changed after the COVID-19 pandemic. But they are still thriving and open Wednesday through Saturday at 106 E. Broadway in Excelsior Springs, Mo.

They host events and classes upon request and have long-time students who have been with them for years. Visit their Facebook page, and you will see posted works alongside posts about shows for their artists hosted in the store. Visitors can get a feel for past art events, classes, and shows on the events page. You can find the gallery online: www.facebook.com/bohemiansagegallery and Kat Mckown on Instagram @katmckownart or contact them for information at [email protected].