Memento Mott-Ly

Lee Tisdale, aka Mott-Ly, the late curator of the Momo Gallery and an early resident of the Crossroads Arts District, died in May 2007 from complications of HIV, which he had acquired from a blood transfusion as a teenager. Few knew of his illness, and Mott never complained; area artists and gallery owners remember him as a great friend and an enthusiastic artist and curator who fostered emerging talent. Tonight, Tom Deatherage, owner of the Late Show Gallery (1600 Cherry, 816-474-1300) and a close friend of Mott-Ly’s, hosts a special, RSVP-only preview party of the Mott-Ly Tribute Show, a benefit for the Kansas City Academy. Tickets cost $25. Call Jody Wilkins at 816-210-6534 for a reservation. The exhibit opens to the public Saturday and features artwork for sale by dozens of Mott’s contemporaries, including Marci Aylward, Christy “Mom-Ly” Hargesheimer, Peregrine Honig, Apryl McAnerney, Colby K. Smith and David Watne.

Sat., April 25, 6-10 p.m., 2009