Please join us for an evening celebrating the intersection of aviation, filmmaking and a Wichita legend.

The Kansas Aviation Museum, Tallgrass Film Association and Wichita Aero Club invite you to a special evening exploring the art of aerial cinematography and the remarkable legacy of aviation pioneer Clay Lacy.

From his Wichita roots to the skies above Hollywood, Clay Lacy has spent a lifetime pushing the boundaries of aviation. A legendary pilot, entrepreneur and aerial cinematography pioneer, Lacy helped transform how aircraft and aerial action are captured on film through his groundbreaking camera technology and work with the entertainment industry.

In celebration of Lacy's Lifetime Achievement Award from the Kansas Aviation Hall of Fame, join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the intersection of aviation and filmmaking.

A Conversation Above the Clouds

Two longtime friends and collaborators of Clay Lacy — acclaimed aviation photographer Paul Bowen and aerial cinematographer Roger Tonry — will share stories, experiences and insights from decades of capturing aircraft in flight. From Hollywood productions to iconic aviation advertising, discover the creativity, technology and precision required to bring breathtaking aerial imagery to the screen.

The evening will begin with a screening of the 10-minute documentary Clay Lacy: Born to Fly, courtesy of Wings Over the Rockies, followed by a fireside conversation, audience Q&A and networking.

As part of this special celebration, Wichita Mayor Lily Wu will present Clay Lacy with a key to the city in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to aviation and his Wichita roots.

Event Details

Monday, November 9, 2026
5:30–7:00 p.m.
Exploration Place | Wichita, Kansas

Evening Schedule

• 5:30 p.m. — Arrival and welcome

• 5:45 p.m. — Clay Lacy introduction and documentary screening

• 6:00 p.m. — Fireside conversation with Paul Bowen and Roger Tonry

• 6:30 p.m. — Audience Q&A and networking

• 7:00 p.m. — Event concludes

Meet Our Speakers

Roger Tonry | Aerial Cinematographer & Director

Roger Tonry's passion for aviation and filmmaking began early — he learned to fly before he could drive. His lifelong friendship with Clay Lacy led him to become an aerial cinematographer for Lacy's innovative Learjet-based Astrovision camera system. Since then, Tonry has built an extraordinary career capturing aircraft in flight for airlines and manufacturers worldwide. His work also includes music videos for Faith Hill, Van Halen and Sir Mix-A-Lot, along with hundreds of commercials for brands including Budweiser and Major League Baseball.

Paul Bowen | Aviation Photographer

One of the world's most celebrated aviation photographers, Paul Bowen has captured aircraft in flight for decades, with his images appearing on more than 1,000 magazine covers and in countless advertising campaigns. A member of both the Kansas Aviation Hall of Fame and the International Air & Space Hall of Fame, Bowen was also named one of Flying magazine's 51 Heroes of Aviation. His longtime friendship and collaborations with Clay Lacy and Roger Tonry have helped produce some of aviation's most memorable imagery.

Presented by the Kansas Aviation Museum, Tallgrass Film Association and Wichita Aero Club.

Seating is limited to 120 guests. Reserve your place for this special evening.

Tickets: $40