COMMUNITY

Greensburg, Kansas

The 5.4.7 Arts Center is a 501(c)3 non-profit community arts center dedicated to providing multi-generational creative opportunities to rural Kansas communities through workshops, classes, exhibitions, programming, and performances. The 5.4.7 fosters the arts economy in south-central Kansas and hosts visiting artists, teachers, and exhibitions from around the world. The 5.4.7 is also a venue for community events and meetings.

In a remarkable display of hope, solidarity, and creative vision, the 5.4.7 Arts Center was established in the aftermath of a tornado that devastated Greensburg, destroying 95% of the existing town, on May 4, 2007. The 5.4.7 Arts Center continues to play a vital role in the cultural and artistic life of Greensburg and the surrounding area, providing a space for creativity, learning, and community engagement.

The 5.4.7 Arts Center is also entrusted with the long-term care of the M.T. Liggett Art Environment in Mullinville, Kansas. The on-site Visitors Center hosts an exhibit space chronicling the art and life of M.T. Liggett, and the acreage is home to a collection of hundreds of his political sculptures, metal totems, kinetic whirligigs, and artifacts from his practice.

M.T. Liggett Art Environment (Residency Location)

Mullinville, Kansas

The M.T. Liggett Art Environment and Visitors Center (constructed on the site of Liggett's studio) is open to the public five days a week, though the sculptures can be viewed outdoors at any time.

Myron Thomas (M.T.) Liggett was widely known for creating politically charged metal totems and whirligigs. He created a line-up of sculptural pieces along miles of pasture fence along US Highway 400 and Kansas Highway 54. His 70-plus acre roadside property is home to as many as 600 small and large metal totems lampooning politicians; local, state and national officials; international figures; or anyone who caught his critical eye. The pieces are smart, witty, often biting, and many times humorous. It has been said he was an equal opportunity offender. His work includes references to Greek mythology, numerous former wives, friends, politicians, and acquaintances.

—From Kohler Foundation