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December 02.2025
3 Minutes Read

Interact with Kansas City History: Meet Big Sonia at the Museum!

Older woman in Kansas City boutique, seated on vintage sofa.

A New Era at the Museum of Kansas City: Meet Big Sonia

On September 4, 2025, the Museum of Kansas City unveiled a remarkable new exhibit that transforms the way we engage with history. Titled "Big Sonia," this interactive experience goes beyond traditional exhibits to allow visitors a deeply personal connection with Sonia Warshawski, affectionately known as 'Big Sonia.' A Holocaust survivor, seasoned businesswoman, and beloved matriarch, Sonia’s journey is a narrative enriched with resilience, fortitude, and the spirit of Kansas City.

Bringing Sonia's Story to Life

Located in the museum’s third-floor gallery, "Our City, Our Stories," this exhibit is the result of a collaborative effort involving Sonia's granddaughter, filmmaker Leah Warshawski, and the innovative team at StoryFile. The exhibit enables guests to have a conversation with Sonia, who shares her experiences through a series of recorded responses. These encompass over 400 questions about her early life in Poland, her survival during the war, and her contributions as a great-grandmother and business owner in the United States.

At the heart of this exhibit is advanced technology that distinguishes it from artificial intelligence-driven interactions. Instead, guests will access a library of responses that are literally Sonia's words captured in her own voice. Each answer reflects her authentic experience, fostering a genuine connection between Sonia and museum visitors. This unique approach transforms passive observation into an active dialogue, allowing guests to engage with history in a personal way.

Why Sonia's Tale Matters

This exhibit offers much more than just a look into past struggles; it embodies the spirit of Kansas City. By spotlighting local icons like Big Sonia, the Museum serves as a reminder of the resilience present within our community. Each interaction shows the strength and wisdom that Sonia possesses and passes down through her family and community. This isn’t merely an exhibit; it’s a testament to the stories that make up the fabric of Kansas City.

The Technological Marvel Behind the Exhibit

A key feature of the "Big Sonia" exhibit is its interactive element developed by StoryFile. This technology allows guests to use either touchscreen interfaces or voice commands to ask Sonia questions directly. It opens a pathway for personal inquiries about her favorite Kansas City memories, her entrepreneurial journey, and the lessons learned from her life’s trials. The exhibit even includes captioning to ensure accessibility, making it a truly inclusive experience.

Support for a Local Treasure

This initiative would not have been possible without the generosity of the Barton P. Cohen and Mary Davidson Cohen Charitable Trust. Their support highlights the value placed on preserving local stories and enriching our community through shared history.

A Call to Discover Kansas City’s Heart

The "Big Sonia" exhibit is not just an encounter with one woman's incredible journey; it’s an invitation for every Kansas City resident to engage with the narratives that define us. Admission is free, making it accessible for families, students, and visitors. By exploring Sonia's life, we’re reminded of our shared history and the enduring spirit of resilience that binds us together.

Join the Conversation!

Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details about Big Sonia and other local treasures? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com and become a part of the Kansas City narrative. Together, let’s celebrate and uplift the voices and stories that enrich our beloved community!

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Explore How Dean Mitchell's Art Inspires Kansas City Local Businesses

Update Dean Mitchell: A Captivating Journey Through Art In the heart of Kansas City, Dean Mitchell’s art has come home. With two impactful exhibitions at the Museum of Art + Light, locals are invited to experience a rich tapestry of portraiture and storytelling that delves deep into the human condition. These exhibitions, titled "Heritage & the Human Condition" and "The Erosion of Time," showcase more than 50 of Mitchell's works, spanning across four decades of his artistic achievements. Mitchell, a former Hallmark illustrator, initially left Kansas City over two decades ago, but his return is nothing short of a celebration of art that merges intimacy with broader societal narratives. Capturing Humanity Through Unique Perspectives What makes Mitchell’s work stand out is his profound understanding of the human experience. From portraits that resonate with personal narratives to landscapes echoing the passage of time, he invites viewers into a dialogue not only with the art but also with themselves. For instance, the striking portrait titled "Boundary" captures an elderly man with a piercing gaze, inviting contemplation on age, love, and the unrecognized struggles we all face. This duality of honesty and empathy extends throughout his work, providing a reflective space where viewers can confront their emotions. A Community Connection: Art and Local Businesses For Kansas City residents and businesses, Dean Mitchell’s exhibitions are more than just art; they symbolize an opportunity to rally around community narratives that uplift the local scene. As local businesses continue to adapt, embracing initiatives that connect with artists and foster cultural exchanges can benefit everyone. Collaborations such as pop-up galleries, workshops, and community events can help create a vibrant ecosystem that supports local talent while attracting customers. This way, the art doesn’t just hang on the walls; it breathes life into the community, engaging both local residents and business owners in meaningful ways. The Digital Age of Storytelling in Art One of the most exciting aspects of Mitchell’s exhibitions is the innovative blending of traditional art forms with modern technology. "The Erosion of Time" brings Mitchell’s paintings to life through immersive digital storytelling, compelling audiences to see art from new angles. This evolution in how we engage with artwork reflects broader trends in the artistic sphere, where digital integration is becoming increasingly essential. For local businesses, partnering with artists to explore digital storytelling can create unique marketing avenues and customer experiences, showcasing the depth of Kansas City’s creative talent while building a more interconnected community. Meet the Makers Behind the Art For Kansas City to thrive, it is essential to spotlight the stories of its artists and entrepreneurs who shape the fabric of the community. Local artists like Dean Mitchell exemplify the value of creativity in enhancing local culture and driving economic growth. Highlighting these stories through community-focused publications, social media features, and local events can inspire upcoming artists and encourage budding entrepreneurs to take the plunge. It also creates a narrative around Kansas City as a hub for artistic innovation and cultural pride. Why Supporting Local Arts Is More Important Than Ever In our current climate of rapid change and uncertainty, supporting local artists and businesses emerges as a vital way to sustain community spirit. The narratives within Mitchell’s works resonate deeply with the Kansas City local scene, fostering a sense of belonging through shared stories. Art that reflects the diversity and resilience of a community can instigate conversations that spark change, foster understanding, and ultimately galvanize community action for local success. Have a story to share or want to contact us for more details? Drop us an email at team@kansascitythrive.com.

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