Happy Hour Art Wins Design Award

Tom Morse-Brown

Those bold, contemporary posters and handbills that catch your eye at every Upcycle Piano Craft Happy Hour also got the attention of the local chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts.

In September, designer Tom Morse-Brown of Kansas City—often seen at happy hour with camera in hand—won an award from the institute. He submitted the posters produced for 2023 events and won in the Editorial and Print category. His wife, Lyn, shared in the prize for editorial and design support.

The award was presented at the annual Design Awards Gala in Overland Park, Kansas. Designers, agencies, and corporations are invited to submit work for recognition in brand identity design, environmental graphics, animation, illustration, editorial design, video production, and photography.

Morse-Brown said the event highlights “the importance of the creative community in Kansas City…it celebrates the best and most influential design work of local creatives.”

AIGA Kansas City mentioned Morse-Brown’s work at the awards event and printed thumbnails of the posters in its 2024 catalog.

The national organization is the oldest and largest professional membership organization for design—with more than 70 chapters and more than 15,000 members. AIGA advocates for a greater understanding of the value of design and designers in government, business, and media.