Abby Bland Named a 2025 HE[ART]LAND Fellow

Kansas City poet and comedian Abby Bland has been selected as a 2025 HE[ART]LAND Fellow, joining a dynamic group of artists dedicated to using their craft for community impact. Organized by He[art]land Arts KC, this prestigious fellowship provides one-of-a-kind training that empowers Kansas City’s most creative voices to drive change through artistic advocacy.

At the core of the HE[ART]LAND Fellowship is the belief that performing artists are expert communicators. Their ability to captivate audiences makes them powerful advocates for the urgent issues Kansas City faces today. This year’s fellowship will focus on sustainable infrastructure, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9 and 11, which promote resilient cities and innovative infrastructure solutions.

Through strategic partnerships with community leaders, the HE[ART]LAND Fellowship fosters artistic growth while creating a bridge between creative expression and civic engagement. Fellows like Bland will collaborate with policymakers, engage the public through storytelling, and use their artistry to inspire action.

Bland’s performance work is known for its depth, wit, and emotional resonance—qualities that make her an ideal voice for this initiative. Her work often explores themes of identity, belonging, and societal change, making her uniquely positioned to translate complex civic challenges into compelling narratives that connect with Kansas Citians.

As 1 of 8 artists selected for this arts advocacy intensive, Bland will play a crucial role in positioning Kansas City as a national leader in arts-driven activism. Her participation in the HE[ART]LAND Fellowship ensures that the future of KC is shaped not just by policies, but by the voices of its artists and communities.

Photo by Asia Raine Photography