The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts’ mission is to cultivate the creation and appreciation of the visual arts in West Michigan. We believe the arts are for everyone. They inspire, fulfill, and transform. Founded in 1924, the KIA is a non-profit organization that has been a cornerstone of the arts and culture community for a century. With a permanent collection of nearly 5,000 works of art, the KIA presents touring and collection exhibitions in 10 galleries; offers four terms of art classes at the Kirk Newman Art School; and houses the KIA Gallery Shop, featuring artwork by area artists and international artisans.