2024 Featured Artist

Each year the Brookside Art Annual selects an artist to represent the show. The 2024 featured artist is returning digital artist Ed Pribyl of McHenry, Illinois. Ed has been creating his original wood sculptures for nearly 30 years. His love for old advertising, vintage toys, and humorous pop culture has inspired him to create work that is truly reflective of the past, while presenting it in a very contemporary way.

“I think when I was a kid, I probably spent a little bit too much time in front of the TV. First of all playing with my action figures was a big thing for me and something I really didn't. One thing that really didn't register for me is what a big inspiration those action figures were, to me, early on. But other than that, advertising TV shows, movie posters, circus posters, all that stuff, just layers of influence on me over the years. Things that I don't even you know, a lot of times things I didn't realize were, you know, soaking into my soul in the future, would like really help shape my work.”

2024 is Ed’s ninth year showing in Brookside. “I've always loved coming to Kansas City and meeting with the people, I’m really appreciative of our crowd here, which is one of the reasons why I always, always look forward to coming back.” When describing why he loves the Brookside Art Annual, Ed described the connections he makes. “It’s a cozy show to do, people are casual, and the setting is really comfortable and casual. I've just had really good experiences. There are really good conversations here. I've developed great relationships through the years. All around I just love going back.”

Visit Ed at Booth #52 near the intersection of 63rd Street and Brookside Boulevard to see his hand carved, original wood sculptures. His work is also featured on the 2024 commemorative posters, shirts and cards which are available to purchase at the merchandise booth nearby, or at the information Booth at 63rd and Brookside Plaza.

You can also explore Ed's work online before the show at EdPribyl.com.  Be sure to like and follow Ed on Instagram @EdPribyl or on Facebook here for more insight into his work and show updates.