81st Annual Plaza Art Fair kicks off Friday

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The 81st annual Plaza art fair kicks off Friday evening on the Country Club Plaza in Kansas City, Mo.

Crews worked overnight Thursday to set up tents, tables and three large music stages. The Plaza Art Fair transforms the streets of the Plaza into an outdoor art gallery, featuring pieces by 240 artists.

Organizers are expecting between 200,000-300,000 people to head attend.

One of the unique artists you can meet this weekend is Andrew Johnson, who is considered a "digital artist."

Johnson sketches designs for his pieces then uses a specially designed computer program which syncs up to his sewing machine. Johnson also uses recycled wood from remodeled or demolished homes to create his own frames. He tells us many local artists rely on this event to profit throughout the year.

"People will have dinner, a drink or two and look at all the fantastic art," Johnson said. "They'll come back the following night or tell their friends and come back with them."

The art fair features live music and kid's art activities, as well as several food and beverage deals at Plaza restaurants. The fair kicks off Friday night at 5 p.m. and runs through Sunday.