KCSCP Current Works 2026 Juror’s Talk and Artist Reception

About this event

Join us Saturday, November 14, from 2:30–4 PM for a Juror’s Talk and Artist Reception with John W. Hans, juror of Current Works 2026, the 11th annual juried exhibition presented by the Kansas City Society for Contemporary Photography.

Free and open to the public.

FEATURED ARTISTS

Ron Anderson | Denita Benyshek | Kalli Brelsford | Jeff Burk | Kirk Decker

Sean Faden | Richard Faulkner | Shirley Harryman | Nate Hofer | Paula Holmes

Roy Inman | Debra Keithly | Laura Lloyd | JoLynne Martinez | Paul Middleton

Charles Miller | Will Moulthrop | Lea Murphy | Matthew Ng | Jason Paro | Tim Pott

Nate Sheets | Andrae Steed | John Elizabeth Stintzi | Curtis VanWye | Kevin Vivers

Current Works is the Kansas City Society for Contemporary Photography’s annual juried exhibition, showcasing the diverse perspectives and creative practices of photographic artists throughout the Midwest, including Missouri, Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, and Arkansas.

Now in its 11th year, Current Works 2026 celebrates the evolving language of contemporary photography and the artists who continue to expand its possibilities. This year’s exhibition is juried by John Hans, an award-winning photographer, master printer, and member of the KCSCP Board.

The exhibition presents a compelling range of visual voices, artistic perspectives, and creative approaches, reflecting the depth and diversity of photographic expression today. Through Current Works, KCSCP continues its commitment to promoting innovative, thought-provoking photographic work and fostering a vibrant community of artists dedicated to the exploration and advancement of photography as an art form.

Jurors Information:

John W. Hans has been creating photographic art for nearly 50 years and has been an active member of the Kansas City arts community for more than 35 years. He currently serves as Director of Production at Dolphin Archival Printing, located within Haw Contemporary in Kansas City’s historic West Bottoms. His work includes digital retouching for commercial and fine art photographers, as well as producing archival-quality prints and reproductions for artists, portfolios, and gallery exhibitions.

Hans began his career using traditional photographic techniques, honing his craft in the wet darkroom. As photography evolved, so did his artistic process. By integrating digital technology with traditional photographic principles, he developed a distinctive approach that allows subtle modifications to enhance the visual impact of an image while maintaining its authenticity.

Originally a drawing major in college, Hans credits his background in drawing as one of the greatest influences on his photography. The discipline taught him the importance of composition, design, and visual balance. He approaches photography much like drawing—abstractly—focusing on the interplay of light, shadow, shape, pattern, and texture in both natural and man-made environments.

His portfolio is primarily landscape-based, though it encompasses a wide range of subjects and settings. Through his work, he seeks to reveal the beauty and complexity of often-overlooked surroundings. Whether exploring industrial forms or organic landscapes, Hans is continually searching for unique compositions, compelling patterns, and exceptional light that transform everyday scenes into striking visual experiences.

Hans has exhibited his work in Palm Springs, California; Naples, Florida; Portland, Oregon; and Springfield, Missouri. His photography is included in several notable collections, including the permanent collection of H&R Block and the Kansas City International Airport Art Collection. Among more than 1,900 submissions, he was one of only eleven artists selected to display work at Kansas City International Airport, an achievement he considers one of the highlights of his career.

His work has been published in Black & White Magazine, The Kansas City Star, and other publications. He has received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Judge’s Award at the 2011 Louisville Art Association National Photography Show and Best in Show at the 2005 Photography Show at Southwest University. His photography was also featured in the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism’s “Earth Through the Lens” competition.

For Hans, every exhibition and juried selection serves as a meaningful acknowledgment of the quality and continued evolution of his work.

Organization Information:

Kansas City Society for Contemporary Photography is an organization led by photographic artists, for photographic artists and collectors. Our mission is to promote, exhibit, educate, and foster collaboration among photographers and organizations. Through these efforts, we aim to support artists, nurture creativity, and celebrate the unique power of photography as an art form.