Join us for After Hours on Tuesday, May 26, for an evening of art, conversation, and creativity at the museum. This month, we’ll take a closer look at one of our newest exhibitions, Hollis Williford: Sculptures, Paintings & Drawings, featuring works that bring together sculpture, painting, and drawing through a strong sense of narrative and material presence. Williford’s expressive bronze figures—often shown as hunters or travelers—invite viewers to imagine the quiet, layered stories behind their gestures and objects.

Visitors can also enjoy a free photo booth experience by OSW Photo, where you can step into the spotlight and capture a fun portrait as if you were a “Work of Art.” As always, dinner will be available for $8 per person, along with a cash bar, art activities, and more. Come spend the evening with us and experience the museum after hours!

Join us for Free Museum After Hours on Tuesday, April 28 from 4–7pm, a welcoming community evening of art, creativity, and connection. In celebration of National Poetry Month, enjoy a community open mic poetry reading in the auditorium, hands-on art activities, a guided gallery tour, and a Utility Shack jewelry pop-up!

Admission is free, with dinner available for purchase and a cash bar open throughout the evening—making it the perfect opportunity to explore the museum, gather with friends, and experience art in a relaxed after-hours atmosphere!

About Utility Shack:

Utility Shack Indian Gallery began in St. Joseph in 1974 before moving to Albuquerque, New Mexico, where for 48 years on historic Route 66 it worked directly with Native American tribes to acquire authentic artwork. For one evening only, the gallery returns to St. Joseph to present an educational program featuring the Smithsonian-recognized artists who partnered with the gallery and the exceptional works they created!

Join us for a creative and social evening at the museum during our March After Hours event! Admission is free and open to everyone, making it the perfect opportunity to explore the museum, connect with other creatives, and enjoy a relaxed evening of art and community.

Artist Trading Card Night

Bring your creativity and make your own Artist Trading Cards- small, collectible works of art created to trade with other artists. Whether you're an experienced artist or just looking for a fun way to experiment and connect with fellow makers, this activity is open to all skill levels!

Paint Your Own Lure Workshop

The Missouri Department of Conservation will also be hosting a special hands-on workshop where participants can paint their own fishing lure. Customize it as a functional lure or transform it into a unique pair of earrings!

• Painting will be open between 4:00–5:45 PM

• The activity takes about one hour, including drying time

• Acrylic paints will be used for easy cleanup

• A clear coat spray will be applied once dry to help protect your design

Participants can register in advance or sign up the evening of the event if space is available.
Register here: https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/213504

The workshop will take place in the Education Center Classroom. Missouri Department of Conservation staff will have an information table inside the museum and will direct participants to the classroom.

Dinner & Drinks

Dinner will be available for $8 per person, and a cash bar will be open throughout the evening.

Come enjoy art, creativity, and community during March After Hours- a fun and welcoming evening where you can make something new, meet fellow artists, and experience the museum in a lively after-hours setting!

February After Hours invites you to an evening of music, culture, and community at the museum. We’re excited to welcome the Missouri Western State University Music Department for a special lecture and performance, La Délaissée: A Louisiana Legacy in Song, beginning at 6:00pm, exploring Louisiana’s rich musical traditions through storytelling and live performance. Guests can enjoy Jambalaya and Gumbo for dinner for $8 per person, along with a cash bar, plus an art-making activity in the café. We’re also pleased to welcome the Noyes Home, who will be on site sharing information about KINDNESS St. Joseph 2026 and how to get involved. Experience the museum after dark and enjoy a memorable night of art and music!

Join us for January After Hours on Tuesday, January 27, from 4–7 pm for an evening filled with art, conversation, and community! The night will feature an artist talk with our current exhibiting artist, Thomas Gieseke, offering visitors the opportunity to hear directly from the artist about his work, process, and ideas behind the exhibition. Make an evening of it with our Souper Bowl Party, featuring a selection of soups available for dinner purchase at $8 per person, along with a cash bar serving drinks throughout the night. Guests can also enjoy a hands-on art activity designed for all skill levels. With free admission and something for everyone, January After Hours is the perfect way to unwind, connect, and experience the museum in a lively after-hours setting!