Friends, Artists to Pay Tribute to Gallery Owner Ron Chaney

Ron Chaney, 69, owner of Ethnic Art Gallery, located in the historic 18th & Vine District, died suddenly September 19, reportedly while installing art for an opening exhibit at the American Jazz Museum. His death stunned the community and local artists. And a group of local artists in Kansas City have planned to celebrate his life and contributions to the arts this weekend.

Chaney’s Ethnic Art Studio, along with other businesses in the 18th & Vine District was hit by vandals, in July, but it did not deter him.

He continued to work. Chaney told a KSHB TV reporter when interviewed after the incident, “Even though negative things happen in this community, I like to be able to look at it from the positive side.” He continued, “The ethnic art gallery is surviving right here on 18th and Vine.”