Recognizing Shanzuo and Dahuang Zhoushi and the Opening of the Zhou B Art Center of Kansas City

Floor Speech

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Mr. CLEAVER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievements and success of Shanzuo and Dahuang Zhoushi, world renowned celebrity Chinese artist painters. Today, we join in recognition of their achievements and the impact they are creating in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District.

Born in Guangxi, China, the Zhou brothers have shared their talents and vision to Chicago where they are currently based and have expanded beyond the United States, reaching across the world. Since their arrival to the U.S. in 1986, they have become world legends in the world of abstract art history, with their art sought after by collectors, celebrities, museums and foundations. They have participated in exhibitions of notes across the globe and received endless awards.

In 2017, the Zhou brothers, at the invitation of their long-term friend and arts leader, Allen Gray, came to Kansas City, Missouri, to explore opportunities to share their artistry. In visiting, they were captivated by the arts community and the possibilities to engage in the collective and emerging arts community. As a result, the Zhou brothers launched a successful effort to purchase the historic Crispus Attucks Elementary School, located at 1801 East 18th Street, Kansas City, Missouri, located in the Historic 18th and Vine Jazz District. As part of their mission, they would be repurposing the building, which was constructed in 1905 and served as the primary school for local African American students and educators in the area, into the 75,000 square foot Zhou B Art Center of Kansas City. The school, which bears the name of a formerly enslaved name, Crispus Attucks, who was the first person killed in the Boston Massacre in 1770, was a central pillar of the community, making it repurpose even more significant to the area.

The Zhou B Art Centel represents a $27 million Investment in the city of Kansas City. This investment will provide a lasting institution in our community for artists, students, educators, local residents, galleries, artist studios and national and international visitors to experience the finest in art, explore boundless opportunities for creativity, and the opportunity to build and enhance the area's infrastructure. It is evident that the Zhou brothers have left a lasting imprint on the artistic landscape of our community that will significantly enrich the lives of individuals and provide a point of inspiration and opportunities for partnership and collaborations people and organizations around the world.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing the Zhou Brothers for their tremendous accomplishments, contributions, and inspiration to others. On behalf of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, I wish the Zhou Brothers congratulations on their new venture and wish them a continued journey filled with continued accomplishments, growth, and fulfillment.

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