In 2017 library staff hatched a plan to share work by local artists and writers in a spiral bound, easy-to-carry publication. Ea ly editions contained work from local creatives whose work had previously been published on our Staff Picks blog or displayed in Library buildings as part of our exhibitions.
Since then, Volume has evolved to its own contest, and we are currently accepting submissions via our Submittable page on the theme of Food Culture.
Our food culture colors our world in many ways. Here in Kansas City, many would say our food culture is barbecue! The world’s first museum dedicated to the history and cultural significance of barbeque opened in Kansas City this April. When friends and family come to town, we treat them to our famous barbecue. Many barbecue joints have pictures of celebrities who have visited, and we host numerous barbecue contests each year. The American Royal World Series of Barbecue is the world’s largest competition of its kind. The Kansas City Barbeque Society boasts 16,000 members worldwide.
Whether you love it, like it, or are resigned to live with it, share your best barbecue story. Is it a childhood memory of the neighborhood block party? Who’s in charge of the grill in your family? Who taught you to be the family grill master? Do you have a special sauce recipe passed down through generations? We’re not asking you to reveal the secret ingredient but tell us the story of who gave you your treasured recipe and what it means to keep these family traditions. When you’re invited to a barbecue, what do you bring and why? Paint or draw or photograph a picture of what a delicious spread looks like to you. Tell us the story of Kansas City barbecue from your point of view. If BBQ isn’t your food culture, share what is.
Poetry is limited to 60 lines, prose is limited to 1000 words, and visual art is only limited by your own imagination. Contest closes June 30th.
We’re looking forward to reading and viewing you work with an eye to sharing with our community!