Overland Park resident and painter Martin Pyle has turned the city’s small‑business owners into the subjects of his newest art project, “At Work: Stories of Overland Park.” The 16‑painting series, which debuted this month, captures the people and behind‑the‑scenes moments that keep the local economy vibrant.
From a classroom assignment to a community tribute
The series began as a requirement for a painting class at Johnson County Community College. Pyle was asked to paint a figure in its natural habitat, and he chose Henry Barbosa, the longtime “healer of soles” at Overland Park Shoe Repair. That first portrait, showing Barbosa bent over a repair bench in his downtown shop, set the tone for the entire collection.
Portraits of everyday entrepreneurs
While a few works feature owners smiling in front of their storefronts, most depict genuine interactions: a dance teacher guiding students at Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice, movie‑goers waiting at the concession stand of Glenwood Arts Theater, and shopkeepers performing the quiet, essential tasks that keep their businesses running.
“Johnson County has lots of small businesses that would have made great subjects,” Pyle said. “I wanted a variety in ethnicity, in types of business, in environment.” He believes these enterprises are the “fabric” of the community. “If you took all the small businesses out, and all we had left was Home Depot and Lowe’s, small businesses give us the culture,” he added.
Art displayed in a historic setting
Last week the paintings were installed on the walls of Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church in Mission, a venue that has long supported Pyle’s artistic endeavors. He has served as an assistant gallery director for the church for roughly a decade, helping to bring art to its sanctuary.
The opening reception drew local residents, business owners, and church members. The works will remain on display for about two months, available for anyone to view during the church’s regular hours.
Artist’s background and future plans
Pyle, a Kansas City, Missouri native, studied painting for years, including at the University of Kansas, before focusing primarily on sculpting. His love of art dates back to elementary school, and he later won first, second, and third place in a regional poster contest, confirming his passion for creative work.
Reflecting on the project, Pyle said it gave him a front‑row seat to the dedication that sustains local commerce. “Back in the Renaissance, who was depicted in a painting? Saints and religious figures. We don’t often depict the working man as worthy of a painting. Featuring them and making a big deal out of it is a good feeling,” he explained.
Why the series matters
By highlighting the people behind Overland Park’s shops, restaurants, and studios, Pyle’s series underscores the importance of small businesses to the city’s identity and economy. The project serves as a visual reminder that the everyday labor of local entrepreneurs is as worthy of celebration as any grand historical subject.
Community members are encouraged to visit Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church to experience the artwork and support the city’s small‑business heritage.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
