Upcoming Exhibits
Collector's Edition: Family Day
Exhibit Runs: June 13 - August 30
Collectors Edition is the Shafer Gallery’s summer exhibition celebrating the fascinating and eclectic world of local collectors. From fine art and vintage postcards to hand-stitched quilts and taxidermied animals, this show highlights the personal passions of these collectors. Drawn from private collections across the region, Collectors Edition offers a rare glimpse into the stories behind these cherished items, and the people who collect them. The exhibition invites visitors to explore the intersection of memory, identity, and material culture in all its quirky, beautiful variety.
Family Day: July 11th, 9 am - 12 pm FREE and open to all ages
Join us for Family Day this summer as we celebrate the spirit of collecting with fun, hands-on activities inspired by our current exhibition, Collector’s Edition! Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your first rock collection, this is the perfect afternoon to explore what it means to treasure the things we love. Families can enjoy interactive games, creative activities, and tasty snacks, all designed to spark curiosity and joy. We’re also partnering with local businesses and community groups, who will be on hand with collection-themed activities and experiences to share. Come make memories, discover new hobbies, and maybe even start a collection of your own. No registration required. Just bring your curiosity and your family!
Business Showcase
Date: August 8, 9 - 11 am
Location: Great Bend High School
Shafer Art Gallery is proud to once again take part in the 2025 Business Showcase, a vibrant annual event celebrating Barton County’s incredible educators and support staff. We’ve been part of this gathering since its very first year, and we’re excited to return for the 10th anniversary. This time, you’ll find us at the Barton Community College table as we team up to welcome teachers, paras, and administrators back with creativity, connection, and a little artful inspiration.
Welcome Back, Barton Students
Date: August 22, 10 - 5 pm
The Shafer Art Gallery is kicking off the semester with a celebration for all new and returning Barton students. Stop by for hands-on art activities, great prizes, chill music, and tasty snacks. It’s a fun, creative way to connect with campus and start the year off right. Everyone’s welcome!
Friends and Acquaintances 2025
Exhibit Runs: September 12 - October 31
Opening: September 12
Masquerade Ball: Oct 10
Friends and Acquaintances 2025 brings together an inspired collection of artwork by local artists and longtime friends of the Shafer Gallery. This beloved annual exhibition celebrates the creative spirit of our community and the relationships that make it thrive. As always, the show will celebrate the artists at our signature Masquerade Ball, a lively evening filled with imaginative costumes, live music, delicious food, and a spirited costume contest. It’s a night where art and celebration meet, welcoming all to enjoy an unforgettable fusion of culture and camaraderie
Museum Exchange
Exhibit Runs: November 14 - December 13
Reception: November 14
Kansas Museum Association Conference: November 19 - 21
Museum Exchange is a special exhibition featuring artwork on loan from museums and galleries near and dear to us, highlighting the rich artistic diversity housed in our local cultural institutions. Timed to coincide with the Kansas Museum Association’s annual conference, hosted this year by the Shafer Art Gallery, this collaborative show celebrates inter-museum partnership and the shared mission of preserving and showcasing art for all.
Ornament Sale
Runs: December 1 - 18
Celebrate the season with our beloved yearly Ornament Sale, featuring a delightful selection of handmade ornaments created by talented local artists. Each piece is unique and crafted with care, making it the perfect addition to your holiday décor or a thoughtful gift. Your purchase supports local creatives and helps fund the Shafer Gallery’s exhibitions, educational programs, and community initiatives. Don’t miss this festive tradition, shop early for the best selection!
Go Figure
Exhibit Runs: January 9 - February 21
Reception: January 9
Go Figure is a compelling exhibition drawn from the Shafer Art Gallery’s permanent collection, showcasing a range of figurative works that explore the human form in all its complexity. From classical studies to contemporary interpretations, these pieces highlight the expressive power of the body in art. Please note: this exhibition contains artistic nudity.
Vortex 2026
Exhibit Runs: March 9 - 25
Vortex Day: March 25
Vortex 2026 is the Shafer Art Gallery’s annual juried exhibition showcasing outstanding artwork from area high school students. This dynamic show celebrates the creativity and emerging talent of young artists across the region, offering them a professional platform to share their work with the public.
Bart Art 2026
Exhibit Runs: April 10 - May 8
Reception: April 10
Commencement Refreshments: May 8
Bart Art 2026 is the Shafer Art Gallery’s annual showcase of creativity from within the Barton Community College family. Featuring artwork by students, faculty, and staff, the exhibition highlights the diverse talents and artistic voices that thrive on campus. Join us in celebrating this vibrant community of makers, with special recognition from a guest juror and a public reception honoring the artists.
For Past Exhibits, visit the Shafer Gallery Portfolio of Exhibits!
Check out the archive collection on Flickr to view images of past exhibits, and check out the current albums for more recent events and exhibits.