Joplin, MO—Spiva Center for the Arts will host three distinct events toward the end of September, offering community members opportunities to engage with the arts, support local programming, and participate in recreational activities. The schedule includes a fundraising golf tournament, an evening dedicated to unconventional art creation, and a market showcasing local artisans. These events will take place at the Spiva Center for the Arts, located within the Harry M. Cornell Arts & Entertainment Complex at 212 West 7th Street in Joplin.
The Spiva Center for the Arts will host its annual Golf Tournament at Briarbrook Golf Course, bringing together community, creativity, and friendly competition. This event serves as a fundraiser to support Spiva’s exhibitions, education programs, and outreach efforts across the region. The tournament will feature a 9 a.m. shotgun start. Participants can compete for prizes, which will be awarded to the first, second, and third-place teams. Individual skill challenges include prizes for Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and a Hole in One. The event also incorporates a Poker Run. Teams interested in participating can register for the tournament, and sponsorship opportunities are available to support the arts. The tournament is designed for both seasoned golfers and those looking for a fun day on the greens.
Another scheduled event is (Bad) Art Night Out, an evening designed for individuals to explore creativity without the pressure of perfection. This event encourages participants to create art that is "not very good," testing the limits of artistic expression in a silly and relaxed environment. Activities planned for the night include Blind Portrait Drawings, Non-Dominate Hand Sculpting, and Franken-Mash-Ups. Drinks and allergen-friendly desserts will be provided. Spiva Center for the Arts emphasizes that the event is for everyone, focusing on the act of creating rather than producing an impressive or "impressively horrendous" outcome. Those interested in attending are encouraged to save their spot for the event.
Rounding out the late September offerings is the Spooky Makers Market, a curated collection of handcrafted treasures created by Spiva member artists and artisans. The market promises "treats and fall fun for all," inviting the community to explore unique local creations. This event provides an opportunity to support regional artists and discover handmade goods.
Spiva Center for the Arts operates from Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., serving as a central hub for artistic and cultural engagement in Joplin and the surrounding Four States area. The center aims to connect residents, foster creativity, and celebrate the impact of the arts within the community through its various programs and events. Interested individuals are encouraged to seek further information on how to register for specific events or explore available sponsorship opportunities.
