Exhibition Opening + Cocktail Party (Zhou B Art Center KC)

All the Ways We Want: Power and Tenderness in Contemporary PortraitureOpening Night: August 23 | Artist Talk 7 PM | Reception 8–11 PMExhibition Runs August 23 – November 2Location: Zhou B Art Center – Kansas City, MO

Kansas City’s art scene welcomes a bold and intimate new exhibition, All the Ways We Want: Power and Tenderness in Contemporary Portraiture. This landmark show features two compelling voices in contemporary art—Jas Petersen (Chicago) and Spencer “Spenny” Liautaud (Nashville)—who engage in a powerful dialogue on identity, vulnerability, and the complex dualities of human expression.

Through both figurative and abstract works, Jas and Spencer explore what it means to be seen in today’s world. Petersen’s provocative “Fastgirls” challenge modern notions of femininity, media, and myth, while Liautaud’s textured abstractions invite viewers into a contemplative space of spirit, instinct, and emotional depth.

All the Ways We Want invites you to experience a meditation on the balance between strength and softness, beauty and truth, power and tenderness—offering a unique perspective on how we perform, protect, and present ourselves.

Join us on Opening Night for:

• An engaging Artist Talk at 7 PM with Jas Petersen and Spencer Liautaud
• A lively reception from 8–11 PM featuring sounds by SHEPPA , and the chance to meet the featured artists

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