KC Reporter

The Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art, in collaboration with Chef Ted Habiger, has announced the launch of "Oil on Linen," a new culinary concept that intertwines art and dining. Habiger, known for his innovative approach to cuisine, has developed a menu that reflects the creative processes seen in contemporary art.

"As I was developing a new concept for this space with my partner Tiffany Thompson, we began to relate the creative process that goes into my menus and restaurants to what was happening in the museum," said Habiger. "From the name, to the menu, to the art, organic connections continued to emerge between cooking and artistic practices and their ability to tell stories and bring people together."

The menu will evolve alongside the museum's exhibition calendar. An example is the Lucía Vidales quesadilla, created by Habiger in collaboration with artist Lucía Vidales during her work on a site-specific installation.

The restaurant's design pays homage to its history while embracing Kansas City's contemporary art scene. Original Toledo chairs by Jorge Pensi have returned, complemented by new artwork and custom furniture by local designer Matt Castilleja. The Courtyard now features works from artists such as Sanford Biggers and Ronald Jackson from Bill and Christy Gautreaux's collection. A unique drawing performance titled “set in place (mis en place)” by Kevin Townsend is also underway.

Oil on Linen collaborated with Petrichor Projects for its design. Frederick James Brown’s longstanding installation "History of Art" remains a fixture in the café gallery.

Starting this week, Oil on Linen will operate Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., extending hours on Thursdays for dinner service starting at 4:30 p.m., offering prix fixe menus along with à la carte options.

Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art is located in Kansas City, Missouri. It is recognized as a leading institution for modern and contemporary art since its founding in 1994. The museum houses nearly 1,500 artworks within its Permanent Collection and presents multiple exhibitions annually focusing on emerging artists and those from historically excluded groups.