Exploring the American Dream at Vulpes Bastille: What Work Is

Redefining Work and Identity at Vulpes Bastille

In the heart of Kansas City, the Vulpes Bastille art space is hosting an innovative exhibition titled “What Work Is,” featuring 50 local artists working to redefine the notion of the American Dream through artistic expression. The centerpiece of this exhibition consists of 40 work coveralls, intricately hung from the ceiling on silver hangers, creating a striking tapestry that invites visitors to walk among them like soldiers on parade. As onlookers navigate through this impressive display, they engage with each unique piece that challenges traditional perceptions of labor, aspiration, and identity.

Questioning the Promise of Labor

The concept of the coverall isn’t just fabric; it represents a longstanding social contract—putting in eight hours of labor in exchange for a paycheck, a few moments of relaxation, and the faint hope of achieving a better future. However, this exhibition seeks to dismantle that promise. Co-curators Adams Puryear and Nina Littrell presented a thought-provoking challenge: artists were asked to alter a pair of work coveralls, pushing them to interrogate the myths surrounding American labor.

Among the participating artists, some express bold defiance. For instance, Steph Becker transforms coveralls into what look like mock currency, evoking a critique of the economy while Celina Curry reimagines work attire with vibrant neon colors, reminiscent of the carefree atmosphere of arcades—bringing attention to the stark contrasts between work and play.

Art as a Reflection of Individual Stories

Other pieces reveal a gentler vision, with artists like Haley Wooten and Sabrina Strausbaugh painting pastoral scenes across the fabric, offering homage to America’s natural beauty while paying tribute to folk art traditions. This exhibition is not merely about the garments; it embodies the stories and struggles of the artists themselves, many of whom grapple with themes of immigration and cultural identity.

Take, for instance, Michelle Chan, Chaneryna Thach, and Raleigh Gonzales, whose works highlight their families’ experiences in American work culture, reminding us that the American Dream often requires negotiating between one's heritage and the pressures to conform. Their contributions resonate deeply with the local community, showcasing not just artistic talent, but also the compelling narratives of resilience that define many Kansas City inhabitants.

A Space for Collective Reflection

This exhibition becomes a collective meditation on the tensions of labor within a contemporary context. Many artists express the struggles of pursuing artistic endeavors amid bleak funding landscapes, often leading them to navigate the paradox of nurturing creativity while ensuring their survival. As Thomas Jefferson once noted about the comfort of staying in familiar situations, the exhibition critiques how many artists today feel tied to the routines that stifle their individual expression.

Even the most subtle modifications to the coveralls become powerful symbols of this conflict. Some artists choose to conceal their alterations within pockets and sleeves; their works serve as a quiet rebellion against the demand for constant visibility in an era dominated by social media performance. The idea that restraint can be an act of self-care amidst the noise of the outside world reflects wider cultural conversations happening right here in Kansas City.

Engaging the Kansas City Community

With “What Work Is” running until January 24, 2026, at Vulpes Bastille, local residents are invited to explore these artistic interpretations and reflect on their own views about work and success. In a region bustling with local businesses and creative innovators, this exhibition provides an opportunity for engagement, urging attendees to reconsider what the American Dream truly means in a time of shifting expectations.

As Kansas City residents support these artistic endeavors, they simultaneously bolster their own community spirit. This exhibition exemplifies the vibrancy that local artists bring to the region, forging connections that resonate far beyond the gallery walls.

Join the Conversation

For those who wish to delve deeper into this rich dialogue about art, identity, and the implications of labor, “What Work Is” offers a unique experience. Drop by Vulpes Bastille and see how these transformative coveralls create a new narrative for work in America. If you have a story to share or want to contact us for more details, drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.