Galleries are currently closed for installation. View brand new exhibits starting Saturday, May 30th!

Gallery Activites

Activity Based Art-Viewing

With each exhibit cycle our team and committee members curate interactive ways to view and/or create artwork. These opportunities are free to participate in when you visit us. 

1000 Words

It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words – at Spiva Center for the Arts, that statement rings true as writers are inspired each year by the images from our PhotoSpiva annual photography exhibition and competition.

For 1000 Words Poetry & Prose, individuals are invited to pick one or two exhibition photos to use as springboards to create original poems or prose. The public is invited to attend the 1000 Words reading where participants share their work. Readings are be recorded, uploaded on YouTube, and linked next to the corresponding exhibition photos via QR codes.

Listen to previous 1000 Words poetry at www.youtube.com/@SpivaCenterfortheArts

Beyond 1000 Words

Our 1000 Words program is now becoming a permanent addition to Spiva! Visit the galleries any time of year and express your creativity, where art inspires art. We welcome poetry, prose, original songs, and other creative responses inspired by the works on view at Spiva.

Share your voice and be part of this evolving collection. By submitting, you grant Spiva permission to review, publish, and display your work. Multiple submissions are encouraged!

Our goal is to inspire creative writing and poetry throughout the community. Jump in and start writing!

Submit work online here: https://bit.ly/SpivaBeyond1000Words or visit the 2nd floor gallery desk in person!

Art + Wellness Initiatives

Art & Wellness Day | Artist Trading Cards

August 9, 2026 | 1:00 – 4:00pm

Join us for an afternoon of creativity, connection, and community! This month’s theme is Artist Trading Cards (ATCs), where participants can create small, original works of art to share and exchange.

From 1:00–2:45pm, our galleries will be open as a relaxed, drop-in studio space with materials provided—perfect for
experimenting, making, and connecting with others.

At 3:00pm, we’ll gather to trade cards and celebrate the creativity of our community.

All skill levels are welcome—come create, relax, and connect!

Gallery Programming

More info soon!

Contact Us

Location & Hours

Monday: Closed

Tuesday: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Wednesday: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Thursday: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Friday: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Saturday: 10:00AM – 5:00PM

Sunday: Closed

212 W. 7th Street
Joplin, M0 64801