John and Sharon Hoffman - local art collectors
John and Sharon Hoffman started collecting art when they got married and moved back to Kansas City. The senior curator of the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art at the time took them under his wing and taught them how to collect museum-quality work. They began with small pieces of pop art and gradually moved to collecting ceramics and works from the Realism period. In the late 1990s, they bought out many up-and-coming artists whose works represented social justice and spoke to their aesthetic.
How does art produce a feeling of thankfulness in your life?
"We are thankful for the dimension it has added to our lives. The friendships we have made with the artists, other collectors, dealers and museum people across the country. And the opportunity for so many people to view the work either in our home or at the Nelson."
Megan Hoban - owner of Prairiebrooke Arts
This year, Prairiebrooke Arts celebrates 35 years of their art gallery in Downtown Overland Park. Owner Megan Hoban grew up in an entrepreneurial family and has a distinct love for watching art connect different generations. She desires to see their gallery impact people's lives in profound ways. This includes connecting with local organizations like Supporting Kids Foundation that helps battle pediatric cancer and consulting in healthcare spaces after losing two friends to cancer.
How does art produce a feeling of thankfulness in your life?
"Working in the gallery, I’m reminded daily that art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about people, emotion, and the connection that it makes everyday. Personally, I’ve found deep fulfillment consulting in healthcare art spaces. I’ve seen how thoughtfully placed artwork can bring calm, strength, and even moments of peace to patients, caregivers, and families alike. I’m continually inspired by those around me—and I’m thankful to play even a small part in the healing process through art."
Ashley Lata - local, abstract artist
Instagram: @ashleylata_art
Preschool teacher by day and artist by the rest--Ashley Lata is quite unique in her approach to painting. Client input is woven into her customized process, from start to finish. Each piece begins with hand-stretched canvas and color selection, which she curates based on the space where the painting will live. Once the final stroke has been placed, she gets to work on the custom framing process. When someone commissions Lata for a customized piece, they are truly getting a unique, one of a kind work of art.
What moments along your artistic journey are you most thankful for?
"I look back and think, 'Had this not happened, would I be painting professionally today?' It was COVID. I had just gotten back into painting after a long hiatus (teaching, raising kids- having little time to myself). Without my knowledge, my husband took some photos of my recently completed art and sent them to his friend who was interested in what I had been painting. In my mind, it was all terrible and was never meant to see the light of day. After some reflection, I decided to start an Instagram page solely dedicated to my art. I wanted to own it and not be afraid of what others thought. Six years later, I am solidly booked out for the entire year. That risk, putting myself out there, has completely changed my life! I am beyond thankful for my journey, regardless of how it started."
"...I’m reminded daily that art is not just about aesthetics—it’s about people, emotion, and the connection that it makes everyday." - Megan Hoban