Founded in 1911 · University of Kentucky

Art colors life.

An international community honoring achievement in the visual arts and sustaining creative life beyond the classroom.

Kappa Pi members pictured in the 1914 Kentuckian yearbook — From the Kappa Pi archive · 1914

Kappa Pi crest — From the Kappa Pi archive · 1914

Our story

A study group became an international society.

More than a century of artists finding one another.

Kappa Pi began as a small group of students who gathered to discuss their work and go out painting together. Their informal study group grew quickly, with new chapters chartered at colleges across the country.

By 1918, productive artwork and high scholarship in art studies had become central to the society. That balance of creative practice, academic distinction, and fellowship still shapes Kappa Pi today.

011911

Kappa Pi is founded at the University of Kentucky.

021935

The Sketchbook begins recording the work and life of the society.

031963

Kappa Pi becomes international with a chapter in the Philippines.

04Today

Artists and scholars continue the society across college campuses.

Kappa Pi artists gathering for an open house

Community in practice

Creative fellowship

A place to make, discuss, and share art.

Campus chapters bring together artists, designers, educators, and art historians for exhibitions, lectures, service, critique, and companionship.

AlabamaFloridaGeorgiaIllinoisKentuckyMissouriNew JerseyNew YorkPennsylvaniaTennesseeTexasVirginia

Ask about your chapter ↗

Academic distinction

Supporting the next body of work.

Kappa Pi scholarships have recognized graduating seniors, new initiates, and art historians. New application dates and requirements will be posted when the next competition opens.