Whenever I go to a different city I always try to find some visual sign of the ARTS. A few weeks ago I was in Topeka, Kansas. I am fairly familiar with Topeka, the amazing mural, sculpture and architectural work at the Capital building. Have met a few of the local artists involved with the Great Mural Project and attended a number of meetings while a Kansas ART Commissioner before our Governor decided that the ARTS aren’t important any more – but we won’t go there. Anyway, I have heard a great deal about the NOTO District, an ART district in an older and less revered area of North Topeka.
Heading north on Kansas from downtown you cross over the river and at the first stop light you have the option of turning right to Little Russia and a visit to Porsbky’s Deli and Tavern or left to the NOTO District. Since it was Saturday I knew Porsbky’s was closed so it was left to the NOTO District. Another left on Kansas takes you into the heart of NOTO. It was around 0800 hrs on Saturday so there wasn’t a lot of street action but there was a popular Cafe, a Flea Market and a Carnival shop preparing for the business day.
There is an old bank that buys jewelry, a trendy sandwich shop and a quirky hand painted sign. 
A business with an awesome fire escape, and a couple of private studios 
The surrounding neighborhood has affordable housing, in various states of repair, very old homes with obvious historical importance. A beautiful train station, a city mission and a historic past-not to mention an active railroad line and the free flowing Kansas River. I don’t know if it is everything for everybody but it is a place where some people have decided to make a difference and to proclaim the ARTS as an important part of every community! Give it a look.
What a GREAT Blog on the NOTO Arts District, Steve! WOW! Your presentation is so artistic!
THANKS for featuring NOTO! I have received several e-mails about it this afternoon…one right after the other….YOU are out there!
THANKS, thanks!
Anita
Steve,
Thank you for the great comments on our efforts over in the NOTO Arts District, Topeka, Ks.! It is always so nice when an outside visitor notices local, grassroots efforts towards revitalization! North Topeka is a beautiful district which is being enhanced everyday with our artists efforts. We are thrilled you gave such a nice summary on your blog. Thank you!
Barb Quaney
NOTO Education Dir.
Steve,
This is a great article and I love you photography. They make NOTO look exactly as it should and is, a fun place to be. You should come visit when our doors are open, so we can welcome you proper.
Thanks,
Shelly Bedsaul
Foole’s Dream Studio
Thank you, Steve! My studio is located in NOTO, STUDIO 831. I have seven other artists subleasing space from me. North Topeka has welcomed us with open arms and provided a nurturing environment. Going across the river is going into my creative zone! So many people have worked very hard to bring this about and I am grateful to each one!
Fantastic! I am soooooooooo proud of everyone responsible.
Keep painting gang!…..”Live one day at a time and make it a masterpeice!”….author unknown but wise I’m sure.
ShirleyA
Artists Lofts & Rusty Haggle’s Antiques, NOTO
Hi again Steve,
I just had a thought…..would you be interested in showing your photos in Foole’s Dream Studio? I really really like them.