By Kristi Spencer
The definition of an artificer is “a skilled artistic worker or craftsman”
The Artificers, located in downtown Fort Scott, Kansas, has quickly become a favorite spot for art lovers and those wanting to tap into their own creativity. Trent and Kate Freeman, the owners, have made a space that’s not just about showcasing art but also about building a connection between artists and the community.
Trent and Kate purchased the 1890 Queen Anne building in October 2020, and after giving it a complete makeover, they opened The Artificers in January 2023. The gallery feels less like a formal art space and more like walking into a country home.
“We wanted gallery patrons to feel like they were stepping into a warm, familiar space, cozy and welcoming, never sterile or stuffy,” Kate shares. The space features a fireplace, a comfy living room and even a little kitchenette, making it easy to imagine the artwork fitting into your own home.
The space doesn’t just house art; it’s also a teaching studio where people of all skill levels can experiment with different mediums. Trent and Kate are excited to share their knowledge, and they bring in local and national artists to teach classes.
“Our vision for the future of The Artificers is to grow it into a place where people can come together to learn and create,” Trent says. They hope to expand their workshops, offer more opportunities for mentorship and make art more accessible to everyone.
At The Artificers, visitors will find all kinds of artwork, from paintings and pottery to jewelry and glass.
“We invite artists who share in our love for beautiful work and excellent craftsmanship,” Kate explains, emphasizing the variety of art available. Kate’s own work is inspired by the Kansas prairie, especially the colorful acrylic paintings featuring sunrises and sunsets.
“I work from my own pictures, painting the vibrant colors the prairie sky offers,” she says.
For Trent, materials like ceramic, wood and metal allow him to craft pieces that come together with a unique balance.
“Each material offers a unique voice,” he explains, adding glass to his sculptures for that extra layer of depth.
The Freemans quickly made an impact in the Fort Scott area. The Artificers was named the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce New Business of the Year in 2023, and this year, the business received the Kansas State Governor’s Art Excellence in Business award.
“We’ve had incredible support from the community, not just through art sales but also with people joining our classes,” Trent notes. One event everyone looks forward to is the annual Christmas Art Show, where local talent is celebrated and the public comes together to support the arts.
In addition to showcasing local talent, Trent and Kate are also working to preserve Fort Scott’s artistic history through their business, Bourbon County Clay LLC. They source local clay to produce handcrafted pieces that reflect the area’s heritage.
“Each creation reflects the enduring significance of the region’s natural resources and the skilled artisans who shape them,” Trent says.
Looking ahead, Trent and Kate are building The Queen’s Muse, a sculpture garden and artist retreat. This two-story space will complement The Artificers gallery and teaching studio, offering a peaceful spot for artists to find inspiration.
“We’re passionate about the arts, and we want to create a sanctuary where people can come together, be inspired and celebrate creativity,” Kate explains.
For those interested in pursuing an art career, Trent and Kate have some advice: “Don’t give up. You will need to put in 1,000 hours to know your medium and 10,000 hours to master it. Craftsmanship speaks louder than a social statement.”
Whether you’re looking to buy a unique piece of art or take a class, The Artificers has you covered. With a focus on craftsmanship and a sense of belonging, Trent and Kate Freeman are making sure The Artificers remains a vibrant part of Fort Scott’s creative scene for years to come.
Photos by Oriah Freeman Photography