The goal of the Derby Arts Council is to encourage, promote and foster appreciation, participation and support for the visual arts. The Derby Arts Council will showcase local artists and provide an exhibition gallery for Derby and the surrounding area to enhance the cultural arts experience.

There are two gallery spaces in the library that are managed by the Derby Arts Council: the Gathering Space Gallery and the High Wall Gallery. The Gathering Space Gallery is in the library’s lobby and includes the Community Room. Art hung inside the library's Community Room is unavailable for viewing during library programs and room rentals. The High Wall Gallery is inside the library, located in the Kansas & Genealogy area of the library. Three-dimensional art and local collectors can be found on display in the lobby display case.

Click the button below to download the Policies and Procedures of the Derby Arts Council, which includes the artist release statement and inventory sheet.

Any questions regarding the artwork, including possible purchase, can be directed to Tami English, Derby Public Library Office Manager and Derby Arts Council Chair.

Prepare to see Kansas through a brand-new lens this summer. The Gathering Space Gallery is thrilled to announce its upcoming exhibition, "Kansas: Through the Lens," a breathtaking collaborative showcase featuring the premier talents of the Derby Photo Club and the Wichita Area Camera Club (WACC).

This isn’t just an art show; it is an invitation to explore the hidden corners and sweeping vistas of our home. From the raw majesty of Kansas wildlife and the delicate intricacies of native plant life to the vast, golden landscapes and the soulful faces of our people, these photographers have captured the very heart of the Sunflower State.

The exhibit brings together two powerhouses of the local photography scene. The Wichita Area Camera Club, a cornerstone of the regional arts community since 1951, joins forces with our very own Derby Photo Club. Whether you are a seasoned pro who has been shooting for 40 years or someone who just unboxed their first camera today, both clubs celebrate the passion for the craft.

To celebrate this vibrant collection, we invite the community to an Artist Reception on July 23rd from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet the photographers behind the images and hear the stories of their adventures across the state. The evening will be complemented by the soulful sounds of Charlie Wilks, who will be performing live on guitar.

Come celebrate the beauty of Kansas and the incredible community of artists who call it home. We can’t wait to see you there!

The High Wall Gallery is bursting with personality and texture as we welcome a visual experience like no other. We are delighted to present FACES (Found Art - Cloth - Embellishment Series), a unique mixed-media exhibition by Wichita-based fiber artist Karen Funcheon.

Karen’s journey is a beautiful tapestry of history, art, and fashion. A Kansas State University graduate in Fashion Design, Karen spent her career as a professional tailor, honing a master’s touch with fabric and form. Since retiring, she has traded her sewing shears for pastel pencils and needlework, returning to her first love: drawing faces.

In this series, Karen brings a delightful cast of "lovely ladies" to life. Her work is a vibrant fusion of texture and personality, incorporating:

• Intricate Fiber Art: Layers of fabric that provide depth and character.
• Unique Embellishments: Sparkling beads, vintage trims, and even found objects like antique glasses.
• Delicate Detail: Expert use of pastel pencils to define the expressive features of each "face."

Every piece in the FACES series is one-of-a-kind, crafted with fibers from a variety of sources to create something truly special. Karen’s ultimate goal is simple yet profound: she wants her creations to make you smile and laugh.

We invite you to celebrate Karen’s whimsical vision at an Artist Reception on July 23rd from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. To make the evening even more memorable, Trevor Stewart will be performing on the Chapman Stick, providing a unique and atmospheric musical backdrop that perfectly complements the innovative nature of Karen’s mixed-media art.

Whether you are a lover of fashion, a fan of fiber arts, or simply in need of a good smile, Karen Funcheon’s work is a must-see. We look forward to sharing this joyful collection with the Derby community!

In May, our lobby display takes flight with a stunning collection of scale models crafted by Derby’s own Brigadier General Brad Link (Ret.).

With over 64 years of experience—starting his first kit at just five years old—Brad’s hobby is a testament to patience and precision. For him, the true joy lies not just in the assembly, but in the deep dive into the history of every subject he builds.

Display Highlights:

• The "Jolly Roger": Don’t miss Brad’s personal favorite, the F-14 “Tomcat” from the iconic VF-84 squadron.
• A Need for Speed: Beyond a heavy focus on sleek modern jets and WWII classics, the collection features legendary racers like the McLaren MP4/4 F1 car and the 1970 Porsche 917.
• Life in the Cockpit: Alongside the models, you’ll find authentic patches and Brad’s own flight helmet—mementos from a distinguished military career.

Brad Link isn’t just a fan of aviation history; he’s a part of it. A retired Brigadier General, he logged over 5,400 flight hours, primarily piloting the B-1 Lancer.

Stop by the lobby this month to see the world of aviation and motorsports through the eyes of a Derby veteran and master modeler!