Exploring Kansas City: Museums, Breweries, and a Lighting Perspective

Morlights CEO, Avraham "Avi" Mor, recently visited Kansas City and took in its sights. The below recounts just some of what he saw.

After spending five years studying in Lawrence, Kansas, I can’t believe I never took advantage of the incredible cultural institutions Kansas City has to offer. On a recent trip, I finally had the chance to visit the National World War I Museum, the Nelson-Atkins Museum, and Boulevard Brewery—and each stop left a lasting impression.

At the National World War I Museum, I was struck by how well the story and extensive timeline were presented. The experience was both immersive and educational, shedding light on history in a profound way. As a lighting professional, I couldn’t help but notice the excellent lighting design throughout the exhibits. I even spotted some new installations by our friends at Available Light.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum was equally captivating. While I’m not usually one to take photos of art, their collection—including works by Monet, Manet, and other masters—was truly remarkable. I was particularly drawn to the exhibit on glass and glass etching. My wife, Rachel, and I have Waterford Crystal pieces at home from our honeymoon in Waterford, so it was fascinating to learn more about its history. From a technical perspective, I noticed quite a few KETRA replacement lamps throughout the museum—a product we’ve often used in art museum projects ourselves.

The tour wrapped up at Boulevard Brewery, where their wheat beer—one of my personal favorites—did not disappoint. The brewery’s story is the epitome of the American Dream, and it resonated deeply with me as I continue building Morlights into the brand it is today.

If you find yourself in Kansas City, I highly recommend adding these spots to your itinerary.

Back in Lawrence, I also managed to catch a Kansas basketball game at Allen Fieldhouse, which is nothing short of a mecca for basketball fans. Seeing Musco Lighting’s new installation was a real treat. The updated lighting requires fewer fixtures, offers significantly reduced glare, and adds vibrant color for the national anthem and alma mater. One highlight was seeing the original rules of basketball, penned by Dr. James Naismith, displayed in a beautifully lit, motion-sensor-activated, and fiber-optic-illuminated case.

Images: 

• "Skylight, Nelson Atkins Museum of Art" - Dean Hochman, licensed via Creative Commons, CC 2.0
• "Boulevard" - Paul Sableman, licensed via Creative Commons, CC 2.0
• "Basketball Crowd, Allen Fieldhouse" - Dean Hochman, licensed via Creative Commons 2.0