The City of Merriam is proud to share that it has been selected as the home for two artworks in this year’s Kansas City Parade of Hearts, a regional public art experience celebrating creativity, culture, and community spirit across the metro.
The Parade of Hearts places 150 artist‑designed heart sculptures throughout the Kansas City area, inviting residents and visitors to explore local neighborhoods while discovering unique interpretations of the heart.
This year, Merriam is honored to feature two installations:
KC Dreaming, created by artist Rhiannon O’Brien, is located at Merriam Grand Station between 30hop and HomeGrown Kansas City at 8805 Shawnee Mission Parkway. The heart blends whimsical and futuristic elements, depicting scenes of Kansas City, children at play, and imaginative views of “space‑suited” Kansas Citians exploring their surroundings.
The Nelson: Confluence of Dreams, designed by artist Lisa Ervin, can be found in Downtown Merriam at the northwest corner of Johnson Drive and Merriam Drive. Inspired by The Nelson‑Atkins Museum of Art, Ervin reimagines the iconic institution through a dream‑like lens, inviting viewers to see themselves within the heart’s sculpted opening.
Merriam encourages residents to explore these installations and participate in the Parade of Hearts by visiting additional pieces across the metro. With 150 hearts placed throughout Kansas City, it’s the perfect opportunity to learn more about local artists, support public art, and enjoy a city‑wide treasure hunt.
For more information about the Parade of Hearts and locations across the region, visit paradeofhearts.com.