Arts
Community
“I have been with Explore Crawford County since 2017 and one of the things we have learned over the years is how little residents know about the region they live in,” said Chris Wilson, marketing and communications manager for Crawford County’s Convention & Visitors Bureau.
He partnered with Professor Jamie Oliver, chair of the Art Department, and his classes to create the first coloring book, “Gus the Gorilla Explores Southeast Kansas,” in Spring 2022. The book won 1st place in the Small Budget Print Category at the Kansas Tourism Conference and was so popular with residents and visitors, Wilson decided to do an updated reprint this spring.
The project has helped Oliver’s students learn the business side of the art industry including working with a client.
In turn, it is helping young residents learn more about their home while also serving as a guide for families traveling into the area.
“A coloring book is an easy way to introduce local children to fun and quirky things throughout Southeast Kansas, as well as telling stories that should not be forgotten,” Wilson said. “If our locals know little about where they live, how can we expect them to help travelers and other guests?”
Student artists included Claire Bruening, Briana Carranza, Collin Chaney, Ali Doll, Olivia Frazier, George Hatcher, Jamesha Hawkins, Peyton Lemons, Abby McCoy, Katelyn Phelps, and Devynn Pitts.
Their scenes included:
Crawford County
Cherokee County
Bourbon County
Labette County
Neosho County
Copies will be distributed to sites across Crawford County including libraries, city halls, museums, hotels, and chambers of commerce, and to travel information centers across the state.
Locally, they will be available at the Explore Crawford County office at 117 W. Fourth St., the Overman Student Center on campus, Pittsburg Public Library at 308 N. Walnut, Pittsburg City Hall at 201 W. Fourth St., and Crawford County Historical Museum, 651 Highway 69.
Learn more about the Pitt State Art Department.
