VOL. II
ART TOWNS CURATED COLLECTIONS ARTISTS’ SPACES
Meet the cover artist on page 66.
2016-2017
DOUBLETREE SUITES BY HILTON – BENTONVILLE Invites you to stay with us while visiting all the wonders of Northwest Arkansas!
OUR FAMILY FUN PACKAGE INCLUDES free Breakfast for up to four guests and free Wi-Fi. Start each morning of your trip with a big breakfast, and after the day ’s adventures are done, take advantage of your internet access to share photos with friends at home.
479-845-7770 301 SE Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712 • doubletree.hilton.com/Bentonville
ARKANSAS MADE ARKANSAS MADE The Park Hill Collection Helping local The Park Hill Collection communities prosper. Helping local communities prosper.
VOL. II
IN THIS ISSUE 8 INTRODUCTION
CURATED COLLECTIONS
A welcome and a special thank you to everyone who helped make Arkansas Made possible.
Local designers and makers’ hand- selected collections of their favorite work made in The Natural State.
ART TOWNS
44 A TOUCH OF GLASS by Amber Perrodin 46 ADVENTURE by Rick Stagner
10 THE DELTA 12 EUREKA SPRINGS 14 HOT SPRINGS 16 LITTLE ROCK 18 NORTH LITTLE ROCK 19 CONWAY 20 MOUNTAIN VIEW 24 NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
48 LEATHERWORK by Clayton Chamberlain
ARTISTS’ SPACES
56 PATCHWORK by Brandy Thomason McNair
50 EDIBLES by Zara Abbasi Wilkerson 51 LIBATIONS by Jon Allen 52 IN THE PAINT by Jaquita Ball 54 PHOTO FINISH by Joshua Asante
Take a peek inside the places where these makers live and work.
57 PAPER TRAIL by Stacie Bloomfield
28 THE LIFE OF PABLO Bentonville painter and sculptor Tom Edwards offers a look inside his rustic barn studio.
36 CHANNELING THE FAMILIAR AND FAR-OFF Discover how Little Rock artist Erin Lorenzen took an idea and turned it into a best-selling T-shirt design.
ON THE COVER. A look at the workspace of Olivia Trimble. Photography by Novo Studio. See page 66.
4 Arkansas Made | 2015-2016 4 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
58 YOU WOOD LIKE IT by Olivia Trimble 60 OH, HONEY! by Amy Kelley Bell 61 SOAPS & SUNDRIES by Charlene Simon
62 THAT’S SO METAL by Stacey Bowers 63 TEXTILE STYLE by Christie Turk 64 SCULPTED by Garbo Watson Hearne
PHOTOGRAPHY/NOVO STUDIO
Discover local art scenes in Arkansas, and meet the creative minds making them happen.
A Special Publication of Arkansas Times ALAN LEVERITT Publisher alan@arktimes.com EDITORIAL MANDY KEENER Creative Director mandy@arktimes.com AMY GORDY Editor amy@arktimes.com REBEKAH LAWERENCE Editorial Contributor rebekah@arktimes.com ADVERTISING PHYLLIS A. BRITTON Sales Director phyllis@arktimes.com ELIZABETH HAMAN Sales Director elizabeth@arktimes.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES ASHLEY GILL | ashley@arktimes.com BLAKE HANNAHS | blake@arktimes.com BROOKE WALLACE | brooke@arktimes.com LEE MAJOR | lee@arktimes.com LESA THOMAS | lesa@arktimes.com RHONDA CRONE | rhonda@arktimes.com STEPHEN PAULSON | stephen@arktimes.com PRODUCTION WELDON WILSON Production Manager/Controller ROLAND R. GLADDEN Advertising Traffic Manager JIM HUNNICUTT Advertising Coordinator GRAPHIC DESIGNERS BRYAN MOATS KEVIN WALTERMIRE MIKE SPAIN OFFICE STAFF ROBERT CURFMAN IT Director LINDA PHILLIPS Billing/Collections KELLY JONES Office Manager ANITRA HICKMAN Circulation Director
201 E. MARKHAM ST., SUITE 200 LITTLE ROCK, AR 72201 501-375-2985 All Contents © 2016 Arkansas Made
6 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
There’s a lot of art in our
CRAFTS.
YOUR TRIP BEGINS HERE
Columbus House Brewery, Fayetteville
Gravity BrewWorks, Big Flat
#VisitArkansas
Superior Bathhouse Brewery and Distillery, Hot Springs
The Hive, Bentonville
We kind of have an obsession with delicious, finely crafted local beer. It goes with our delicious, finely crafted local food. Seems like a great new brewery opens here every other week. Autumn in Arkansas is the perfect time to sample it all, along with our brilliant fall foliage and tasty scenery. Come see us. ARKANSAS.COM
AN INTRODUCTION FROM ARKANSAS MADE Art communities throughout Arkansas are thriving! With programs in place to support the arts and encourage artists to flourish, we see new events, venues, galleries and more continually emerging on the scene. Traditional, time-honored forms like pottery, weaving and quilting are in good hands with accomplished artisans who work to pass down their knowledge. A new generation is exploring mediums like screen printing, public murals, sign painting (meet sign painter Olivia Trimble, who created our cover art, on page 66) and more. Luckily, we live in a state where these artists are supported through readily available art education; galleries that are anxious to display their work; shops that support local, handmade goods; and a community that shows its appreciation for handmade work with attendance at art walks and gallery openings and by purchasing these one-of-a-kind creations. In this, our second edition of Arkansas Made, we journey through the state to explore what some of its most prominent art towns have in the works. We introduce seasoned artists as well as those just emerging on the scene. We spotlight upcoming events in film, music, theater and more around Arkansas that you won’t want to miss. Have you ever wanted to take a peek inside an artist’s studio? Follow along as we travel to the Bentonville barn studio where 81-year-old Tom Edwards spends his days drawing, painting, printmaking and welding steel sculptures. Little Rock T-shirt designer Erin Lorenzen also shares the story of how her T-shirt design was born on a trip abroad, and later became one of the biggest trends in the capital city. When it came to highlighting some of the best work made in Arkansas, we decided to leave the task of selecting it to the experts—the artists themselves. You’ll find 15 themed, curated collections of work hand-selected by artists and experts who are blazing trails in the local art community. Meet the curators and find out what their local favorites are beginning on page 44. We’d like to thank our sponsor, the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, thank you to all of the curators who put so much time and thought into their selections, the artists who opened up their studios to our photographers, the galleries for their guidance, and our readers for your unwavering support of all things Arkansas made.
KEEP ON MAKING!
The Arkansas Made Team
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Many people have helped make Arkansas Made a reality. Our sincere thanks to Brian Chilson, Rett Peek, Matthew Martin and Philip Thomas for photographing many of the spaces, works and artists found throughout the magazine; Vincent Griffin for his illustrations; Melanie Jones and Dwain Hebda for writing; and Olivia Trimble for her artwork on the cover.
8 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
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THE DELTA
THE ARKANSAS DELTA IS STEEPED IN RICH CULTURE. IT’S HELPED SHAPED THE AMERICAN SOUTH WITH ITS UNMISTAKABLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO ART, MUSIC, FOOD AND CULTURE. IF YOU EVER WANT TO IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE ARTS, TAKE A TRIP TO ANY OF THESE EAST ARKANSAS TOWNS AND GET OUT AND
BRADBURY ART MUSEUM Fowler Center at Arkansas State University 201 Olympic Drive, Jonesboro 870-972-2205, bradburyartmuseum.org A fixture on the Arkansas State University campus in Jonesboro for more than 15 years, the Bradbury Art Museum features numerous exhibitions in contemporary art, and programming to promote the understanding of art and the artists, which include prominent regional, national and international figures. The BAM also sponsors the annual Delta National Small Prints Exhibition, a nationally recognized juried print show that attracts artists’ work from across the U.S. and around the world.
CHECK OUT CHERRY STREET FAIR SECOND SATURDAYS APRIL THROUGH SEPTEMBER!
DELTA CULTURAL CENTER 141 Cherry St., Helena 870-338-4350, deltaculturalcenter.com Spread out across nine indoor and outdoor venues in downtown Helena, the Delta Cultural Center tells the story of a land and its people through art, music, historic properties, exhibits and education. Music takes center stage at the DCC. Permanent exhibits include Delta Sounds, a stateof-the-art music area dedicated to the music of the region, including well-known gospel, rockabilly and blues performers with ties to the area. Another unique permanent exhibit, ”King Biscuit Time,” showcases the longest-running radio blues show in the world.
JOHNNY CASH BOYHOOD HOME 110 Center Drive, Dyess 870-764-CASH, dyesscash.astate.edu Tour the boyhood home of legendary country musician Johnny Cash at the historic Dyess Colony, which was created in 1934 as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal to aid in the nation’s economic recovery from the Great Depression. See what life was like for Cash in his early years on the farm inside this restored home.
LIVE MUSIC!
The inaugural Johnny Cash Heritage Festival opens Oct. 19-21, 2017, to celebrate the life and music of Johnny Cash. Following a highly successful string of concerts in Jonesboro to restore Cash’s rural childhood home and nearby Dyess Colony, the newly refurbished sites will host the three-day festival that will include main stage and local musicians, crafts, art, food and seminars that focus on the socioeconomic and cultural influences of the time and place that shaped the Man in Black and his iconic music. johnnycashheritagefestival.com.
10 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY VENDORS/ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & TOURISM/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN
ART TOWNS
MILLER’S MUD MILL 862 U.S. 65, Dumas millersmudmill.com, 870-382-5277 Gail Miller’s pottery is wellknown to the crowds at War Eagle Craft Festival for her vivid colors, sharp contrasts and unusual forms, weaving tactile utilitarianism with unique aesthetics.
ART TO BUY.
Meet a Local Maker
EAT HERE RHODA’S FAMOUS HOT TAMALES 714 Saint Mary St., Lake Village 870-265-3108 Delta tamales are a Southern tradition. How the delicacies arrived in the Delta is still a mystery, but southerners just can’t get enough. Rhoda Adams has been serving up these corn husks filled with spicy seasonings and savory meat in Lake Village for more than 50 years.
SHOP IN THE DELTA HANDWORKS 227 Cherry St., Helena 870-338-4340, handworkshelena.com Stop by Handworks in downtown Helena to snag a piece of jewelry by Love, Nina Jane.
LUX CANDLES 2005 Highway 38 W, Des Arc 870-256-1353, lux-fragrances.com Fill your rooms with the scent of Lux Fragrances, handmade in Des Arc. Find Lux Fragrances on the company’s website or through Park Hill Collection.
MAKE SURE TO SAVE ROOM FOR PIE!
It’s hard to pin down Paul Michael in a word, but visionary comes close. The Lake Village native has enjoyed a lifetime of curiosity and craftsmanship, retail adventures and the simple pleasures of home. His latest venture, Paul Michael Company, turns out beautiful, functional home elements from recycled and repurposed materials. The one-of-akind furniture and accent pieces are manufactured in their entirety in the company’s Dermott workshop, which buzzes seven days a week. The flagship store sits in the middle of a Lake Village cotton field. Created in small batches according to the reclaimed materials and implements available, each piece is designed to become “the antique of tomorrow.” His shift to reclaimed-material furniture was the result of his noticing changing marketplace trends, and the national consciousness turning toward the need for recycling. Decades of being in the antique business had built up both his inventory of potential raw materials as well as his network of contacts for locating pieces’ finishing touches. The collection, internally nicknamed Paul’s World, now includes coffee tables with tops cut from semi-truck trailer flooring and wheels fashioned from farm machinery parts, dining room tables from floorboards of a condemned Chicago bank, and walnut slab-seat benches that take four years to make. Paul Michael 3696 U.S. 65, Lake Village 870-265-3872, paulmichaelcompany.com
INSPIRED BY THE DELTA DRAWING AMPLE INSPIRATION of the rural and natural landscape around her, Norwood Creech captures the Delta tableau in her paintings and photographs. Alternatingly vibrant and haunting, her work captures the spirit of daily life in this special place. Creech resides in and draws inspiration from Lepanto in the Arkansas Delta, and is represented at M. Ford Creech Antiques & Fine Arts in Memphis. 870-243-3300, facebook.com/norwood.creech.art
Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 11
ART TOWNS
EUREKA SPRINGS
THERE MAY BE NO MORE COLLECTIVELY CREATIVE TOWN ANYWHERE THAN EUREKA SPRINGS. FROM THE TIDY VICTORIAN COTTAGES TO THE TRIPPY MOUNTAIN PSYCHEDELIA, SOMETHING SPECIAL WAITS AROUND EVERY TWIST AND TURN OF THIS OZARK HIDEAWAY. Art galleries in Eureka Springs are open year-round, but for a special treat, get out on the second Saturday of the month from April through November for extended hours and special openings. You’ll find an eclectic range of work in this art town. Here are a few galleries that are not to be missed:
85 SPRING STREET GALLERY 85 Spring St. 479-244-7190
EUREKA FINE ART GALLERY 2 Pine St., Ste. Y 479-363-6000
FANTASY & STONE
ART TO BUY.
81 Spring St. 479-253-5891, fantasyandstone.com
Fusion Squared
FUSION SQUARED
84 Spring St. 479-253-4999, eurekafusion.com
STUDIO 62
IRIS AT BASIN PARK 8 Spring St. 479-253-9494
J.A. NELSON GALLERY
37 Spring St. 479-253-6600, janelsongallery.com
KEELS CREEK WINERY & GALLERY 3185 E. Van Buren 479-253-9463, keelscreek.com
“ Requiem” by Jody Stephenson
MOSAIC STUDIO 123 Spring St. 479-244-5981
QUICKSILVER GALLERY
73 Spring St. 479-253-7679, quicksilvergallery.com
SERENDIPITY AT THE CRESCENT HOTEL 75 Prospect Ave. 479-253-2769
THE BIRDCAGE
1 Basin Spring Ave. 479-633-1406
THE GREEN GOURD 12 Center St. 479-244-0987
THE JEWEL BOX
40 Spring St. 479-253-7828, thejewelboxgallery.com
12 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
ART TO BUY. ZARK’S FINE DESIGN GALLERY
67 Spring St. 479-253-2626, zarksgallery.com Limited edition people, animal and machines built from found objects by Arkansas sculptor James K. Sawyer.
335 W. Van Buren 479-363-9209, studio62.biz Jody Stephenson paints abstract landscape, cloudscape and more. Find her work at Studio 62, the gallery she co-owns with photographer Ron Lutz.
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY VENDORS/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN
ART GALLERIES
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
No matter your art of choice, you’ll find it at the Eureka Springs Festival of the Arts, which encompasses the entire month of May. Each day brings a new workshop, lecture or concert from local and visiting artists alike. Visit one of the town’s many galleries for special exhibits and to watch the artists at work, or grab a beverage on one of the many sky-high decks and listen to the sounds of blues, folk or jazz waft through the evening air. And don’t miss the White Street Walk, a party thrown by local artists that stands out even in a town known for throwing a good party.
TELLING THE STORY EUREKA SPRINGS HISTORICAL MUSEUM
95 S. Main St. 479-253-9417, eurekaspringshistoricalmuseum.org The Eureka Springs Historical Museum is located in the heart of the historic district at 95 S. Main in Calif House. Built in 1889, the building houses a large collection of permanent and rotating exhibits charting the founding of the town as a haven of “healthy waters” right through to the present day. In addition to the many photographs, documents and artifacts from the city’s past, view an extensive collection of art donated or purchased through the years. The collection pays homage to the hundreds of artists who have lived and worked in Eureka Springs. Among these are Louis and Elsie Freund who established Art School of the Ozarks in 1941 and launched an arts renaissance in the community that survives to this day. The museum is supported through admissions, donations, research fees, gift shop sales and memberships as well as special events held throughout the year. Open Monday through Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed Sunday. Admission is $5 for adults and $2.50 for students with ID. ENJOY ITALIAN FOOD IN THE SKY!
EAT HERE!
DEVITO’S OF EUREKA SPRINGS
5 Center St. 479-253-6807, devitoseureka.com Profiled in the New York Times, Southern Living and Bon Appetit, DeVito’s is arguably the best Italian food in the state. The specialty of the house is the trout, raised on the family’s Bear Creek Springs trout farm in Harrison, a farm-to-table tradition there that goes back to 1956. DeVito’s offers relaxed street-side dining or a table on the new “Sky Dining” deck four stories up and with breathtaking views of East Mountain. Lunch is generally served from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner begins at 5 p.m., although the schedule varies, so it’s wise to call ahead. Closed on Wednesday.
Meet the Artist
Toronto-born multimedia artist John Rankine has called Eureka Springs home for two decades, and in that time established himself as one of the area’s most prolific entrepreneurs and promoters of the town’s artistic community. Drawn to Eureka Springs’ sense of place and natural beauty Rankine’s work was soon heavily influenced by the natural world he found there. His “Smile Series,” shown at the Rococo Gallery in Eureka Springs, utilized the barn-wood, scrap-wood and bones found on his land. In 1998 Rankine created “Headlites,” an installation involving 25 individual found-object sculptures at Mud Street Café’s gallery space. A frequent exhibitor at The Space, a large event hall he co-owns, he also produces art events at another local spot, Brews, at 2 Pine Street. His work can also be seen at Eureka Fine Art Gallery, a business he co-owns. He took up photography in earnest after founding the Lovely County Citizen community newspaper in 1999. Since then, his art through the lens garnered him a 2011 Individual Artist Fellowship for outstanding achievement in the arts from the Arkansas Arts Council for his multimedia, photographic installation, “A Community At Peace.” Last year, he unveiled his latest photographic collection, “On My Morning Walk.” The photo-diary collection contains up-close-and-personal photos of the natural beauty of the place, as seen from the one-mile stretch of rural Ozark road on morning strolls with his three dogs. His year’s worth of photos, shared via social media, reflect the changing seasons on both the macro and micro levels. John Rankine 2 Pine St., 479-363-6000 johnrankineart.com
CAN’T MISS! THINK YOU’VE SEEN IT ALL? Check out April’s Carving in the Ozarks, the city’s chainsaw carving festival now in its 13th year. Watch tree stumps transformed into works of art, and bid on the finished projects. eurekasprings.org.
Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 13
ART TOWNS
HOT SPRINGS ART TO BUY.
DISCOVER THESE GALLERIES AND MANY MORE DURING THE HOT SPRINGS’ GALLERY WALK EVERY FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH. ARTISTS’ WORKSHOP GALLERY
610A Central Ave. 501-623-6401, artistsworkshopgallery.com “The artists are the gallery” is an apt description of the Artists’ Workshop Gallery. For nearly 30 years, it’s been the city’s go-to outlet for original art created by local artisans. Now owned and operated by more than 30 local artists, the cooperative deals in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pastel, collage, photography and more.
FOREST PATH GALLERY
107 Stillmeadow Lane 501-617-0594, genesparling.com Wood never had it so good as in the hands of Gene Sparling, owner of Forest Path Gallery. Creating mesmerizing shapes and forms, Sparling’s vessels, sculpture and furniture reimagine the woodworker’s art. Call first to make an appointment.
“Sun Burst” by Gene Sparling
FOX PASS POTTERY
TAKE A CLASS! Grow your passion for art at this community arts education program. Emergent Art is made up of teachers, volunteers, artists and students. They provide gallery and studio spaces, and an arts education program that touches on writing, journal making, painting, dancing, Tai-Chi and more. 501-655-0836, emergentarts.org.
379 Fox Pass Road 501-623-9906, foxpasspottery.com This quaint wooden cottage serves as a gallery and studio for potters Jim and Barbara Larkin. Watch them work in the studio, meet other potters, shop the showroom and check out the twochambered wood-fired salt kiln in action.
GALLERY CENTRAL FINE ART
800 Central Ave. 501-318-4278, gallerycentralfineart.com This prominent Hot Springs gallery opened in 1999, and is recently under new ownership. The gallery represents more than 35 artists with an impressive collection of diverse styles and mediums from both Arkansas and internationally known artists.
JUSTUS FINE ART GALLERY
827A Central Ave. 501-321-2335, justusfineart.com This gallery was founded in 2004, and represents the work of established and emerging artists who work in a wide range of styles and mediums.
CHECK IT OUT! THE HOT SPRINGS DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL, the oldest nonfiction festival in North
J ustus Fin
e A r t Gall
er y
14 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
America and an Academy Award-qualifying festival in the category of Documentary Short Subject, is held annually in October. The festival presents about 100 documentaries every year from a total submission of more than 1,000 hopefuls. Panels, forums and special events lend context to the screenings and their subject matter. 501-321-4747, hsdfi.org.
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY VENDORS/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN
THE SPA CITY IS A TRAILBLAZER IN THE ARKANSAS ART SCENE. CENTRAL AVENUE IS LINED WITH EXCELLENT ART GALLERIES FILLED WITH INNOVATIVE LOCAL AND REGIONAL TALENT, AND THE FILM AND FESTIVAL SCENE IS ALWAYS MAKING WAVES.
LEGACY FINE ART
804 Central Ave. 501-762-0840, lfagallery.net This newly renovated, 4,000-square-foot space hosts a variety of regional and internationally known artists, including Fidel Garcia, Carole Katchen, Vangelis, Eva, Americo and AB Makk, Robert Lyn Nelson and Jim Pescott.
RILEY ART GLASS STUDIO
366 Quarry Mountain Road 501-318-6193, Riley Art Glass Studio rileyartglass.com Brothers Charles and Michael Riley offer live demonstrations of their work and a gallery filled with beautiful glass sculptures. They specialize in art glass creations using age-old glassblowing techniques.
SHOP ON CENTRAL AVENUE BATHHOUSE SOAPERY & CALDARIUM
366 Central Ave. 501-525-7627, bathhousesoap.com A craft bath and body company that hand-makes just about everything found in its downtown Hot Springs boutique, Bathhouse Soapery produces bars, crystals and scrubs that turn routine bath times into luxurious spa experiences.
MOUNTAIN VALLEY SPRING CO.
150 Central Ave. 501-624-1635, mountainvalleyspring.com The ultimate in artisanal water, Mountain Valley Spring Co. has been bottled straight from a natural spring for more than 145 years. Stop in its headquarters to see artifacts from the company’s history, buy merchandise or grab a bottle of the mineral-rich, refreshing water.
EAT HERE
DRINK HERE
407 Park Ave. 501-609-9002 delucaspizzeria.com Brooklyn-born Anthony Valinoti brings the art of authentic Neapolitan pizza to the Spa City using fresh vegetables and the finest meats, cheeses and olive oil. But order early; Valinoti hand-makes a limited amount of dough every morning and when it’s gone, it’s gone.
329 Central Ave. 501-624-2337 superiorbathhouse.com This craft brewery in the historic Superior Bathhouse is the world’s first brewery to utilize thermal spring water as the main ingredient. Sample beer in the tasting room open seven days a week.
DELUCA’S PIZZERIA
CRAFT BREW SUPERIOR BATHHOUSE
Meet a Local Maker
Carole Katchen’s career in art already touches on five decades and she’s still reinventing herself. The internationally known painter, who has called Hot Springs home for more than 20 years, is still an active member of the local arts scene and operates a gallery in the Spa City. Katchen started as a writer and was a working freelancer by the time she was 21. Her first book, I Was a Lonely Teenager, was published in 1965 and went on to sell 700,000 copies. Four years later, she committed to art and attended West Valley College in northern California. In what was to become a hallmark of her career, Katchen indulged her sense of adventure as an incubator for her art. She hitchhiked across Africa with a photographer in tow, the basis for her first solo exhibit at a professional gallery in 1971. She followed that up with a hitchhike along the PanAmerican Highway from Mexico to Peru, painting as she went. In 1980, an investor funded a trip to Nigeria for six weeks where she completed sketches for a series of etchings. The decade was also marked by the first of large corporate art commissions, which helped to grow her exposure. In between such projects, she found time to publish numerous books on art instruction and technique. By the time she got to Hot Springs, she was well-known in entertainment, writing and art circles, so much so that President Bill Clinton attended one of her painting demonstrations in 1997; the resultant piece is now in the Clintons’ private collection. More recently, she produced a series of iconic paintings of chefs that Art in Motion licensed for products now sold in 32 countries worldwide. Carole Katchen 624 Prospect St. 501-321-4799, carolekatchen.com
Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 15
ART TOWNS
LITTLE ROCK
THERE ARE MANY GREAT CREATIVE COMMUNITIES WITHIN THE CAPITAL CITY, EACH WITH THEIR OWN ART-CENTERED CELEBRATIONS AND EVENTS. HERE’S THE RUNDOWN ON WHEN TO VISIT EACH NEIGHBORHOOD TO SEE THEIR GALLERIES’ LATEST EXHIBITS.
Clinton Pres
identi al Cen
ter
Arkansas Arts Center
Little Rock has some fantastic, diverse museums, any of which you’d be happy to devote an entire afternoon to. The ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER offers traveling exhibits and an expansive permanent collection, from American, Renaissance and European artists to modern works. Throughout the year, the Arts Center brings in special exhibits and its Museum School offers a variety of arts classes for all ages. Its Children’s Theatre is a professional theater company staging new takes on children’s classics. The MOSAIC TEMPLARS CULTURAL CENTER is dedicated to collecting, preserving, interpreting and celebrating African-American history, culture and community in Arkansas. The museum informs and educates the public about black achievements. At the CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER AND PARK, thousands of artifacts, photographs and interactive exhibits tell the story of the Clinton presidency, from the campaign trail to the end of his tenure. There is also a replica of the Oval Office and Cabinet Room. The HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM delves into the state’s earlier frontier development. The site includes four ma jor historic structures, including the oldest building in Little Rock. Enjoy the galleries filled with historic Arkansas-made fine and decorative art, or catch a living history performance depicting the lives of early settlers. Get a taste of Arkansas history at the OLD STATE HOUSE MUSEUM downtown. This historic structure was built in 1833 and was the site of Arkansas’s admission to the Union, the fatal Bowie knife fight between two legislators, the vote for Arkansas to secede from the United States and much more. Today it is filled with historic artifacts and changing themed exhibits that tout Arkansas’s extensive history. ARKANSAS ARTS CENTER 501 E. Ninth St. 501-372-4000, arkarts.com
HISTORIC ARKANSAS MUSEUM 200 E. Third St. 501-324-9351, historicarkansas.org
MOSAIC TEMPLARS CULTURAL CENTER 501 W. Ninth St. 501-683-3593 mosaictemplarscenter.com
OLD STATE HOUSE MUSEUM 300 W. Markham St. 501-324-9685, oldstatehouse.com
CLINTON PRESIDENTIAL CENTER AND PARK 1200 President Clinton Ave. 501-374-4242, clintonfoundation.org
ON STAGE
From large-scale production to community stages, there are so many fantastic theater choices in Little Rock. Visit the newly renovated ROBINSON CENTER, set to reopen in November with a fantastic lineup, including “Elf the Musical” and “Cinderella” as well as Ballet Arkansas and Arkansas Symphony Orchestra performances. The ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE also touts an impressive lineup of shows this season including “The Crucible,” “A Christmas Story” and “Sister Act.” ROBINSON CENTER 426 W. Markham St. 501-376-4781, robinsoncentersecondact.com
16 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE 601 Main St. 866-6THEREP, therep.org
Robinson Center
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY VENDORS/ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & TOURISM/LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN
MUSEUMS
HILLCREST
Head to Hillcrest on lower Kavanaugh Boulevard for its First Thursday Shop & Sip each first Thursday of the month. Don’t miss what’s new at GALLERY 26, it hosts everything from pottery to paintings, T-shirts and jewelry. BOX TURTLE welcomes shoppers to peruse clothes, jewelry, shoes and housewares. HAUS WERK is a great place to find home decor, accessories and more. The SHOPPES ON WOODLAWN always host a great event with great deals on kids clothes, home decor and more.
THE HEIGHTS
Just north of Hillcrest, enjoy art openings at galleries on the third Thursday of each month in The Heights. A few galleries to see include: BOSWELL MOUROT FINE ART 5815 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-664-0030, boswellmourot.com CANTRELL GALLERY 8206 Cantrell Road 501-224-1335, cantrellgallery.com
CREATED BY KYLE BOSWELL
DRAWL SOUTHERN CONTEMPORARY ART 5208 Kavanaugh Blvd. 501-240-7446, drawlgallery.com
DOWNTOWN
On the second Friday of each month, discover the new art shows at galleries throughout the River Market area in downtown Little Rock. A few gallery highlights include: BUTLER CENTER GALLERIES 409 President Clinton Ave. butlercenter.org GALLERY 221 221 W. Second St. 501-801-0211, gallery221art.com MATT MCLEOD FINE ART GALLERY 108 W. Sixth St. 501-725-8508, mattmcleodgallery.com ARKANSAS CAPITAL CORPORATION GROUP is dedicated to helping small businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the state. Since 2013, the company has supported local art entrepreneurs by hosting art openings in its offices in conjunction with 2nd Friday Art Night. 200 River Market Ave., Ste. 400, arcapital.com.
SOUTH MAIN
In SoMa, the party happens on the fourth Friday of the month. Shops and restaurants stay open late in this creative community to welcome shoppers and diners to see what’s being created just south of Interstate 630. THE GREEN CORNER STORE & SODA FOUNTAIN offers a vast variety of all-natural foods, bath products, handmade jewelry and eco-friendly children’s toys in its storefront. 1423 Main St., 501-3741111, thegreencornerstore.com. View decades of changing purse design at the ESSE PURSE MUSEUM & STORE, one of only three museums in the world dedicated to the art of women’s handbags. 1510 Main St., 501-9169022, essepursemuseum.com. SOUTH MAIN CREATIVE is a modern take on an antique mall with vendors showcasing anything from antiques to upcycled furniture and handmade art. 1600 Main St., 501-414- 8713, southmaincreative.com.
Meet the Makers
This duo is the brains and creativity behind Electric Ghost Screen Printing. Brooks Tipton established the T-shirt printing business and joined forces with creative director Shannon Shrum to open their boutique retail and screen printing location on Main Street in the South Main neighborhood. Electric Ghost is responsible for tons of T-shirt branding, both local and national. You may recognize their work for Lost Forty, Loblolly, The Bernice Gardens and more. Stop in their store to check out their latest works or grab a few succulents from the Plant Lab to spruce up your home or office space. Electric Ghost Screen Printing 1218 Main St. 501-246-3500, electricghost.com
GRAB A BITE
Grab breakfast, lunch or weekend brunch with AT THE CORNER downtown. You’ll find a great, classic diner atmosphere with chefquality food prepared with locally grown, seasonally fresh ingredients. Don’t skip the house-made poutine! 201 E. Markham St., 501-400-8458, thecornerlr.com. For upscale Southern fare, excellent atmosphere and artisan cocktails, try SOUTH ON MAIN restaurant. The venue also hosts two craft shows each year, in December and February, and frequent concerts. 1304 Main St., 501-244-9660, southonmain.com. The ROOT CAFE serves up locally produced meats, grains and vegetables in a delicious menu in the heart of SoMa. Stop in for breakfast or lunch and grab a burger, omelette or salad. 1500 S. Main St., 501-414-0423, therootcafe.com. Belly up to the bar at LOBLOLLY, an old-fashioned soda fountain located within the Green Corner Store. This creamery dishes up classic flavors and some with unexpected twists. 1423 Main St., 501-374-1111, loblollycreamery.com.
SHAKE IT UP ON MAIN STREET! Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 17
ART TOWNS
NORTH LITTLE ROCK
THIS REHABILITATED DOWNTOWN IS BREATHING NEW LIFE INTO THE ART SCENE. ARGENTA HOSTS ART WALKS, WEEKLY FARMERS MARKETS IN-SEASON, COMMUNITY EVENTS, BEER AND WINE TASTINGS AND MUCH MORE!
GALLERIES
Argenta Gallery 413 Main St. 501-258-8991 This new gallery features paintings, photography, jewelry and more. On art walk nights you can find lots of patrons bustling within its narrow walls. Greg Thompson Fine Art 429 Main St. 501-664-2787; gregthompsonfineart.com If you appreciate Southern art, Greg Thompson Fine Art hosts works by some of the leading creators in the genre. Expect to find the works by artists of the caliber of Carroll Cloar, Glennray Tutor, Thomas Hart Benton and more. Thea Foundation 401 Main St. 501-379-9512, theafoundation.org This gallery functions as a nonprofit to support the arts in schools and provide scholarships to students. It hosts a series of quarterly exhibitions that feature dynamic artists from across the state.
ON STAGE
There are two great theater venues in Argenta in THE JOINT and the ARGENTA COMMUNITY THEATER (ACT), both on Main Street. The ACT hosts regular theatrical productions, movie nights and more in a 218seat theater. The Joint is home to comedy team The Main Thing, who performs Friday and Saturday nights, as well as local improv groups, bands, stand-up comedy and more. The Joint 301 Main St. 501-372-0205, thejointargenta.com
Argenta Community Theater 405 Main St. 501-414-0440, argentacommunitytheater.org
SHOP
MADDOX is a trendy clothing and accessory shop on Main Street that participates in the art walk. GALAXY FURNITURE is one of the best vintage shops in central Arkansas. Check it out for retro furniture, clothes, records, home decor and more!
GET YOUR ART & COFFEE AT MUGS!
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EAT & DRINK
MEET THE MAKER
When you talk about art on Main Street in Argenta, the name Larry Pennington is sure to come up. This commercial photographer and potter opened his business in 2001 in downtown North Little Rock. Pennington bought his own potter’s wheel and dedicated the front of his shop as a pottery studio. At his friends’ encouragement, he decided to start holding pottery classes. Today he has six wheels and hosts pottery classes for beginners and experienced potters four times a year in addition to his weekly, twohour Friday night classes that are perfect for small groups wanting to learn a new craft or spend an evening getting creative. Pennington specializes in raku pottery, which has a very intricate firing process to create a lovely metallic finish. Find a collection of his work along with works by local and regional artists in his gallery, Claytime Pottery, in Argenta. Larry Pennington 417 Main St. 501-374-3515, claytimepottery.com
There are tons of great restaurants in the Argenta area. Longtime favorite RISTORANTE CAPEO offers some of the best Italian fare around. MUGS is an artisanal coffee shop and cafe that hosts local art on its walls as well. For a cold craft brew try FLYWAY or CORE PUBLIC HOUSE, a restaurant and taproom serving beer made by the Springdale-based CORE BREWING.
PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY VENDORS/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN
Spend the third Friday of each month perusing work by local artists at the Argenta Art Walk. Shops and galleries stay open late to welcome shoppers to the neighborhood.
ART TOWNS
CONWAY
GALLERIES
Art Experience Inc. of Conway This frame shop also carries original work and prints by local and regional artists. 1027 Front St., Ste. 3, 603-918-9237, artexperienceinc.com. Art on the Green This artist co-op features a new collection of local artists’ creations in its 3,000-square-foot gallery every three months. In addition to the gallery space, it also hosts community art classes and lectures. 1100 Bob Courtway, Ste. 1 501-205-1922, artonthegreen.net.
“THE CITY OF COLLEGES” CREATES THE PERFECT FOUNDATION FOR A GROWING ART TOWN. IT’S HOME TO THREE MAJOR COLLEGES WITH RAPIDLY DEVELOPING ART PROGRAMS, A VIBRANT DOWNTOWN AND A BUSTLING COMMUNITY THAT’S PROUD TO HOST TONS OF VENDOR-BASED FESTIVALS.
MEET THE ARTISTS AT TOAD SUCK DAZE
Baum Gallery at the University of Central Arkansas This university-run, educational art museum features hand-selected national and international touring exhibitions as well as juried student shows. It is always free and open to the public. 201 Donaghey Ave., McCastlain Hall, 501-450-5793, uca. edu/art/baum/about.
“CINDERELLA” BY BLACKBIRD ACADEMY
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Toad Suck Daze More than 160,000 visitors will experience downtown Conway during this celebrated three-day event. There is something for everyone with carnival rides, a petting zoo, food, live music, arts and crafts and tons of vendors set up selling their unique handmade wares. toadsuck.org.
SHOPPING
Park Hill Home Park Hill Home is a great place to find artistic inspiration. It’s filled with a collection of nostalgia-filled home decor items and accessories with a subtle rustic touch. Find anything to outfit your studio or home, including many exclusive antique reproductions, and home fragrances and candles produced in The Natural State. 1011 E. Oak St., 501-358-3537.
TAKE A CLASS
Conway ArtsFest This annual event happens in downtown Conway each October to bring together and highlight the local art community. You’ll find public art, live music, theater and dance groups, food trucks, and hands-on art activities for all ages. artsinconway.org/artsfest.
ON STAGE
Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre Experience the work of Shakespeare live with the state’s only professional Shakespeare company. At its annual summer festival, the company produces a selection of Shakespeare’s work and other wellknown plays. It hires national talent, and has been featured in the New York Times. Brush up on your Bard talk before the 2017 season begins on June 9. 866-810-0012, arkshakes.com.
Blackbird Academy of Arts This nonprofit organization is dedicated to delivering art education to the community. It offers classes for children, teens and adults in creative writing, dance, film, music, sewing, theater and visual arts. Its educational space is comprised of 10,000 square feet with separate spaces for music, art, writing, dance and more. 1058 Front St., Ste. 102, 501-3368200, blackbirdacademy.org.
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ART TOWNS
MOUNTAIN VIEW
THIS SLOW-MOVING SOUTHERN TOWN HAS A LOT MORE TO IT THAN ANTIQUE SHOPS AND ARTS AND CRAFTS. IT’S ONE OF THE STATE’S CULTURAL EPICENTERS WITH A CELEBRATED CRAFTING SOCIETY AND HIGHLY SKILLED COMMUNITY OF MUSICIANS. MOUNTAIN VIEW IS A GREAT PLACE TO RELAX AND TAKE IN THE MUSIC, ART AND TRUE MOUNTAIN LIFE.
LEARNING ARTS
LIVING ARTS OZARK FOLK CENTER
EXPLORE THE OZARK HERITAGE!
DON’T MISS!
1032 Park Ave. 800-264-3655, ozarkfolkcenter.com As the only center devoted full time to preserving the Ozark heritage and arts, Ozark Folk Center State Park provides visitors a front-row view of the crafts, music and herblore of the famous region. Blacksmithing, pottery making and 18 other skills and crafts are on display, with a raft of classes to match. Adults have their choice of classes from a preset schedule or may design their own class with one of the park’s resident artisans. Music is a crucial element of OFC programming and includes a live performance schedule and numerous classes and special events. Ozark Highlands Radio, a weekly radio program, features live music and interviews recorded at the park’s 1,000-seat auditorium. The Ozark Folk Center State Park caters to all ages, and is particularly effective in introducing children and young people to the life and times of their grandparents and great-grandparents. Several of the center’s programs are tailored specifically for young people. Classroom teachers can also work with park staff to develop a field trip that dovetails specifically to that class.
MOUNTAIN VIEW BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL features concerts by well-known bluegrass acts in the fall and spring. Produced by Mountain View Bluegrass Association, Inc., proceeds benefit the local Music Roots Program at the Ozark Folk Center. Mark your calendar for Nov. 10-12. mountainview-bluegrass.com.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY VENDORS/ARKANSAS DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & TOURISM/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN
ARKANSAS CRAFT SCHOOL
110 E. Main St. 870-269-8397, arkansascraftschool.org Founded in 2009, the Arkansas Craft School (ACS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, appreciation and instruction of art forms and craft indigenous to the Arkansas Ozarks. In cooperation with Ozarka College’s Mountain View campus and Pulaski Technical College in North Little Rock, ACS inspires support of the arts through affordable classes, each of which qualifies as continuing education credits. ACS classes, which are kept intentionally small and mainly held on weekends, are taught by master craftspeople, some internationally known, who instruct in glass bead making, wood turning, blacksmithing, pottery and paper making as well as new endeavors such as found-object art, working with reclaimed materials and photography. The group hosts an annual gala each fall. In the spring, ACS hosts Sustainability Weekend, teaching the finer points of soap making, beekeeping and sourdough bread making.
ART TO BUY.
MCSPADDEN DULCIMERS
1104 Sylamore Ave. 877-269-4422, mcspaddendulcimers.com Preserving the Ozark musical tradition has been the goal of McSpadden Dulcimers since 1962. The company, featuring five full-time craftsmen, produces traditional musical instruments played in competitions and on recordings by champion folk artists throughout the world.
GET YOUR FOLK ON ARKANSAS FOLK FESTIVAL Immerse yourself in Ozark
folk music at the oldest Mountain View music festival. Each third weekend in April, just as the dogwood trees begin to bloom, the town explodes in a celebration with live musicians, a morning parade, children’s games, arts and crafts and delicious food all around the Courthouse Square. The 2017 event will be held April 14-15. yourplaceinthemountains.com.
ART TO BUY.
LEWIE’S BLADES
601-951-5897, lewiesblades.com Handmade one at a time, Lewis Lloyd produces knives that are meant to be used. The craftman’s touch is apparent start to finish, from the exotic wood handles to handsanding the blades to achieve a soft low-luster finish.
EAT HERE MIKEY’S SMOKED MEATS & DELI
20899 Highway 5 870-269-2666, mikeysmokedmeats.com Locals rave about the hand-trimmed, slow-cooked meats that are smoked over a real pit of select Ozark hardwoods. Mikey’s menu includes something to please any taste, whether you eat in for great from-scratch barbecue, sandwiches and homemade desserts, or take home smoked meats and cheeses for a crowd. Don’t miss the cherry wood-smoked beef brisket, baby back ribs or smoked chicken. Available for shipping, too.
Meet the Artists
Mountain View’s reigning pottery royalty, Dave and Becki Dahlstedt, didn’t start out too far from one another (he was raised in Arkansas, she in southern Missouri) but their paths to each other followed widely disparate arcs. David studied at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia while Becki studied at Berkeley Potters’ Guild in California. Converging at the Ozark Folk Center in 1984, they spent 12 years there before setting up their own studio in downtown Mountain View, thanks to an individual arts fellowship awarded by the Arkansas Arts Council. Since 1996, the couple has been producing and selling their Mountain View pottery. The collection is anchored by David’s functional and decorative pots, all of which are formed by hand on the potters’ wheel, then added and altered to form the final vessel. The couple mixes their own glazes, which are applied in multiple layers to achieve their signature blended earth-tone look, a process Becki specializes in. The final firing is done at 2,400 degrees Fahrenheit in a specially designed kiln David built. The Dahlstedts’ reach extends far beyond their home studio and retail outlets in Mountain View. David is the potter-in-residence at the Arkansas Crafts School and has taught workshops at the Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock. Among his numerous awards is inclusion in the permanent collection of the Decorative Arts Museum in Little Rock. You can also find their pottery at the Butler Center Gallery in Little Rock and the store at the renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville. They also produce the Clinton Presidential Logo mugs, sold exclusively at the Clinton Museum Store in Little Rock. David and Becki Dahlstedt 511 Jackson St. 870-615-3432, dahlstedtpottery.com
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Powerful performances abound in Little Rock’s vibrant arts scene
There’s joy in discovering something wonderful and unique while traveling, and our trip to Little Rock was filled with those moments. From its incredible artisanal food scene, great farmers’ markets and locallyowned restaurants, to its vibrant nightspots featuring local musicians, there seemed to be something to do and experience at every turn. I never would have expected to find the batch of breweries and distillery that we enjoyed touring and tasting, or to see so many galleries and shops featuring items made by local and regional artisans. And yet, there it was — just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. Find your joy in Little Rock.
For more information, visit LittleRock.com
Explore the city’s unique neighborhoods
Original art by Arkansas artists is available for purchase at galleries and shops throughout Little Rock.
Explore Little Rock’s craft breweries, distillery and winery/tasting rooms
Farm-to-table freshness can be found throughout the city
Little Rock was named one of “Five Secret Foodie Cities,” Forbes Travel Guide 2014
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS
THE ART SCENE IN NORTHWEST ARKANSAS IS BOOMING AND SHOWING NO SIGNS OF SLOWING DOWN. INTERNATIONALLY CELEBRATED CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART PUT THE REGION ON THE MAP, AND TONS OF LOCAL ARTISANS KEEP THE CREATIVE ENERGY FLOWING.
SPEND THE DAY AT THE MUSEUM Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art 600 Museum Way, Bentonville 479-418-5700, crystalbridges.org Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a must-see for any avid art-lover. It’s filled with an exceptional permanent collection that spans five centuries of American art, including works from Norman Rockwell, Mark Rothko, Andy Warhol and more. Spend hours exploring the walking trails, dine at Eleven Restaurant, tour the Bachman-Wilson house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and pick up a souvenir from the gift shop. Check the online calendar for lectures, classes, events, exhibits and more.
DON’T MISS THE BACHMAN-WILSON HOUSE BY FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT!
IT’S ALWAYS A FULL HOUSE AT WALTON ARTS
ON STAGE
The WALTON ARTS CENTER offers a variety of fantastic productions. Catch its Broadway series, a concert by a top national act, a family-friendly musical and more. BACKSPACE is a DIY venue offering community arts programming through concerts by local and regional bands, art shows, readings and more. The ARTIST’S LABORATORY THEATRE is a community-driven theater company in Fayetteville that incorporates the audience into each performance at venues throughout the city. THEATRE SQUARED is a year-round company that delivers a theater experience in the intimate 175-seat Nadine Baum Studios.
DON’T MISS EVENT!
Artist’s Laboratory Theater Fayetteville artlabtheatre.com
Theatre Squared 505 W. Spring St., Fayetteville 479-443-5600, theatre2.org
Backspace 541 W. Meadow St. Fayetteville facebook.com/backspacearts
Walton Arts Center 495 W. Dickson St. Fayetteville 479-443-5600, waltonartscenter.org
WAMPUS WONDERLAND HOLIDAY CRAFT SHOW This exciting new craft show is stepping in to fill the big shoes of The Little Craft Show, which is on hiatus. Sign painter Olivia Trimble, Payton Bridewell and Chad Maupin organized this juried indie craft show hosted at the Washington County Fairgrounds on Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The holiday show was born from the Cattywampus Co-Op, an ongoing experiment to bring together local makers to share their work and sell their wares in a mobile market. At the holiday market, look for your favorite crafters, food trucks, entertainment and more! cattywampuscoop.com.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: STEPHEN IRONSIDE/COURTESY OF 21C MUSEUM HOTELS/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN/ COURTESY CRYSTAL BRIDGES MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART, BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS; PHOTOS BY NANCY NOLAN PHOTOGRAPHY
ART TOWNS
WINTER WONDERLAND This holiday festival spans days throughout November and December in Bentonville. There’s Toyland market that invites vendors to showcase the season’s hottest toys; a holiday lighting ceremony; downtown Christmas parade; and craft-centered Winter Market, which will fill Meteor Guitar Gallery with crafts and designs from local makers on Dec. 3 and 10. downtownbentonville. org/winterwonderland.
Pleased To Represent These Arkansas Artists
BREATHE, EAT & SLEEP ART
JEFF HORTON “FACTORY 1”
21c Museum Hotel 200 NE A St., Bentonville 479-286-6500 21cmuseumhotels.com In Bentonville, you can breathe, eat and sleep art when you stay at the 21c Museum Hotel. It’s a 104-room boutique hotel, restaurant and contemporary art gallery in one. Meet the iconic green penguins; dine at The Hive with Chef Matthew McClure, or explore the hotel’s art galleries and discover contemporary works in unexpected places. Don’t miss Virginie Barré’s humorous hanging sculpture, “Fat Bat,” located in the fitness center!
KATHY BAY “CURTAIN CALL”
KEITH RUNKLE “IF I WERE A FLY ON THE WALL, TOO” Offering the fine art of these Arkansas artists for the established and emerging collector. 5815 KAVANAUGH BLVD LITTLE ROCK, AR 72207 • 501.664.0030 • boswellmourot.com Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 25
OZARK TEXTILES
David Adams 100 W. Center St., Fayetteville 479-444-7778, davidadams.com
GALLERIES
There is never a shortage of art on display in Northwest Arkansas. First Thursday is the night to be out and about on the Fayetteville Square for art openings, live music, vendors and food trucks. Check out an eclectic display of art at the student-run University of Arkansas Student Gallery, also known as SUGAR GALLERY, in an exhibition space in downtown Fayetteville. Don’t miss FAYETTEVILLE UNDERGROUND, which showcases regional art with new exhibitions each month, and hosts a variety of community concerts, readings, classes and performances. TERRA STUDIOS is the home of the Bluebird of Happiness and a vast art collection displaying the work of more than 100 artists and crafters. Spend a day exploring their sculpture garden and art gallery, see live demonstrations or participate in an art class.
Fayetteville Underground 101 W. Mountain St., Fayetteville 479-871-2722, fayettevilleunderground.org
ART TO BUY.
Sugar Gallery 1 E. Center St., Fayetteville 479-575-5202, fulbright.uark.edu /deans-office/facilities/sugar-gallery.php Terra Studios 12103 Hazel Valley, Fayetteville 479-643-3185, terrastudios.com
Two 25 Gallery and Wine Bar 225 S. Main St., Bentonville 479-464-9463, two25galleryandwinebar.com
A LITTLE RAZORBACK SPIRIT KATIE HARVELL SPECIALIZES in small-batch printing with a Woo Pig Sooie flair.
Under her brand, The Katie Co., she draws each design by hand before screen printing it one piece at a time. She studied textile design in college and found her artistic flair in the art of screen printing. She has a vast collection of popular kids’ clothing designs, tea towels, pillows, cards and more. You can find her work online in her Etsy shop or at The Anchor in Fayetteville. etsy.com/shop/thekatieco.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: COURTESY VENDORS/ILLUSTRATIONS: VINCE GRIFFIN
Meet the Maker
David Adams is known in Northwest Arkansas as an authority on jewelry design. He learned his craft through nearly 10 years of apprenticing under Italian designer Orlando Feriozzi, from whom he learned hand-forging techniques, and German designer Joseph Sauer, who taught him the art of stone setting. During his time with Feriozzi, he dedicated five years solely to hand forging or fabricating pieces designed in platinum and 18k gold. “A hand-forged design will last generations, however it is very time-consuming. I am very fortunate to have learned the finest techniques, and to be able continue this time honored tradition,” Adams said. He moved to Fayetteville in 1992 and started his own shop just off the Fayetteville Square. In May of 1999, he relocated to his current location on the corner of Block and Center streets. He offers a vast collection of fine jewelry, repair services, custom-design options and an offering of his own David Adams Signature Collection. Here you can find anything from custom wedding bands and engagement rings to delicate necklaces set with precious stones and intricate detail.
LOUISE HALSEY On the southern edge of the Ozark Mountains and along the banks of the Arkansas River, you’ll find the town of Ozark. Here, weaver Louise Halsey has made her home where she specializes in textile design of rugs woven from handdyed wool and cotton strips, and creates primitive-style mixed-media sculptures from wood and woven cloth. The results showcase beautiful use of shape and color to create one-of-a-kind tapestry art. 479-2921318, louisehalsey.com.
SHOPS
There are tons of great boutiques that support local artists and crafters in Northwest Arkansas. On the Fayetteville Square or in downtown Bentonville, stop into THE MUSTACHE GOODS & WEARS for quirky gifts, locally made shirts and accessories, jewelry, cards and more. Wander over to THE ANCHOR for a great selection of home goods, many of which are made by local designers and crafters. THE HANDMADE MARKET on College Avenue has been showcasing the best in handcrafted jewelry, gourmet foods, bath products, apparel and more since it opened in 1996. The Anchor 1 E. Center St., Ste. 150 Fayetteville 479-249-8796, shoptheanchor.com The Copper Pig 1364 E. Augustine Lane, Fayetteville 479-442-3790, thecopperpig.net
The Mustache Goods & Wears 15 S. Block Ave., Ste. 105 Fayetteville 100 NW Second St., Ste. 110 Bentonville 479-295-0739, shopthemustache.com Swift’s Jewelry 27 N. Block, Fayetteville 479-442-8062, swiftsjewelry.com
The Handmade Market 1504 N. College Ave. Fayetteville 479-582-5731, ourhandmademarket.com Meteor Guitar Gallery 128 W. Central Ave., Bentonville 479-268-1500, meteorguitargallery.com
EAT
The farm-to-table movement is spreading through restaurants across the Ozarks. There are so many great restaurants that tout local produce and meat, and even offer delicious artisan cocktails to accompany your meal. FARMER’S TABLE in south Fayetteville supports local farmers to bring fresh meals to customers within the walls of the cozy house-turnedrestaurant. BLACKBOARD GROCERY AND EATERY is a curated bodega on Fayetteville’s famed Dickson Street that houses tons of organic and locally made food and drink options as well as a bakery and grab-and-go section. For a one-of-a-kind dining experience, sample the ever-changing menu at HEIRLOOM, a small seasonal restaurant located in a historic building in downtown Rogers. The restaurant serves lunch during the week and dinner on the weekends by reservation only. There’s no place better to find an expertly crafted cocktail and artistic atmosphere than FOXHOLE PUBLIC HOUSE in Bentonville. This eatery and bar serves a limited menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner and an extensive cocktail and coffee menu featuring handcrafted mixers by Pink House Alchemy. Blackboard Grocery and Eatery 644 W. Dickson St., Ste. 101 Fayetteville 479-443-1479, blackboardgrocery.com Farmer’s Table 1079 S. School Ave. Fayetteville 479-966-4125, thefarmerstablecafe.com Heirloom 113 S. Second St. Rogers 479-936-8083, heirloomar.com Foxhole Public House 401 SW A St., Ste. 120 Bentonville 479-715-6351, foxholebentonville.com
GRAB SOME BRUNCH YUMMIES!
Meet the Maker
Graphic designer and illustrator Chad Maupin has been in love with graphic novels since he was a kid. He’s been designing for more than 22 years and found inspiration in old comic books, pulp magazines, mid-century advertising and poster design. He’s the force behind BigBot Design, which in addition to Maupin’s creative work, also provides graphic design services, illustration and marketing materials. “The only thing I wanted to be my entire life was a comic book artist. I fell into screen-printing and discovered I really loved it, and actually found a lot of parallels creatively to comics. I never planned on spending my life as a graphic designer but it’s been great,” he said. He lives in Northwest Arkansas with his family, and spends his time creating new worlds through design. “When I’m designing for Big-Bot, my goal is to create my own worlds I can fill up with ideas such as my FrankeNaut series, or to simply have fun with random inspiration such as my ‘Stranger Things’ pop culture prints.” In addition to his eye-catching prints, which you can find on his website and in boutiques throughout the state, he also has comic books in the works, and holds true to his company’s mission: to create long-term fans through creativity, innovation and reliability. Big-Bot Design 1725 S. Smokehouse Trail, Fayetteville bigbot.storenvy.com
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THE LIFE OF PABLO AS A CHILD HE IDOLIZED THE SPANISH ARTIST. NOW TOM EDWARDS EMULATES PICASSO’S WORK ETHIC AND MULTIMEDIA STYLE. BY MEL JONES PHOTOGRAPHY RETT PEEK PRODUCED BY MANDY KEENER 28 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
Edwards surrounds himself with inspirational women—including these works from his Faces series, which began as a project on Facebook. The women in this project are all from Iran, and Edwards said that they desire the same simple freedoms that this writer takes for granted.
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THE TRAJECTORY OF AN artist’s career is rarely a direct path. For Tom Edwards, it took a 27-year detour through a career as a dentist before he was able to devote himself full time to his art. Today, you’ll find the 81-year-old making art in his studio just outside Bentonville. “When I was a little boy, maybe around 6 or 8, I wanted to grow up and be an artist. I used to draw on butcher paper remnants, war pictures and things like that. Somehow I saw something that Picasso did and I wanted to be like that,” Edwards said. He idolized Picasso as a child, and wanted to go to Europe, study with Picasso and become an artist himself. “I did two of those things, because Picasso died.” His career as a dentist came about the way many careers do, through a certain experience and parental influence to get a “real job.” “When I was around 12 years old I had to go get a tooth pulled, so I rode my bike to downtown Joplin [Missouri] to the dentist. When I came home I told my dad about it. They encouraged me to think along those lines—my parents were Depression-era people, dentists made a lot of money. They wanted me to have that security,” he said. “For 53 years I blamed my parents for me being a dentist, until I finally said, ‘You dumb shit, stop.’ Although I hated dental school, I enjoyed being a dentist.” Edwards never abandoned his love of art, though. He began as a self-taught artist, or “Sunday painter,” and his first formal lessons didn’t come about until a man named Don Cincone came into his Harlington, Texas, practice in 1967 with a dental problem. He credits Cincone as the person responsible for him becoming an artist. “I listened to people making fun of Sunday painters and didn’t like it, since I was sort of a Sunday painter myself. So I started taking some drawing lessons from Cincone,” he said.
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(Clockwise from top) The farm shed that’s adjacent to the barn is where Edwards focuses on metalworks of all sizes. All of the expected tools of an artist can be found in Edwards’ studio, as well as the unconventional dental tools he has incorporated into his metalwork. Edwards handcrafted this Venus of Willendorf urn to hold the ashes of his soulmate, to whom he was married for 23 years. (Facing page) The artist in his studio. The high ceilings and vast openness of the barn studio make for an ideal workspace and gallery for Edwards’ many oversized canvases, including A Brief Biography of Picasso.
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At 16-feet-tall and made from stainless steel, 911, Target USA is one piece of a triptych intended to become a public monument in memory of those who were lost. The sculpture park is always evolving with large works of steel and stone, and has become a well-known landmark in north Bentonville. Now 81, Edwards never gave up on his childhood dream of becoming an artist. “Art is not a luxury,” he says. “Art in all of its forms is a compelling human need and has been such from the cave to today. Its not something you choose do to do its something you are compelled to do. Its hard wired into our bodies and our brain.”
Watching Cincone work at the easel introduced Edwards to glazing and painting with acrylic. Cincone’s influence created a compelling desire for him to become an artist, and when his dental practice was terminated by chronic mercury poisoning, he returned to college. Thirty years after graduating from the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Dentistry, he began earning degrees in art from three institutions, culminating with an MFA in visual art from Vermont College of Norwich University. Earning those degrees, Tom said, made being an artist “official.” “I had a piece of paper that said I was an artist, like the Tin Man in ‘The Wizard of Oz’ when he got his heart,” he said. “That piece of paper was important to the psyche.” It was during that time that Edwards made his way to Europe, just like Picasso. In 1992 he was a guest student of the Cleveland Institute of Art summer session at L’Ecole d’art, Lacoste, in Provence, France. “Picasso didn’t go to school,” he pointed out. “But Picasso did work his butt off, and that’s the one thing about him that I hope to emulate.” Two years later he found himself in Sweden for a summer session as part of a Missouri Southern State College exchange program. Studying Scandinavian art at Mullsjö Folkhögskola in the village of Mullsjö, Edwards said that an awareness or understanding of
another language and its culture is necessary for one to become an artist. He mentioned a quote from Mark Twain—“Nothing so liberalizes a man and expands the kindly instincts that nature put in him as travel and contact with many kinds of people”—to summarize his views. “Basically, you don’t know anything until you meet the people of the world,” Edwards said. His work takes many forms, from giant canvases awash in acrylics and watercolors, to carvings made from Tripoli, a stone that traversed both his career as a dentist and his life as an artist. And while he employs the normal tools of an artist, Edwards has also found a way to incorporate the tools of his former trade as well. “I always loved making dental castings,” he said. “So I kept all of those tools, and now I use them mostly to make jewelry.” From the barn studio where he focuses on drawing, painting and printmaking, you’ll also find Edwards creating welded steel sculptures in the old farm machinery shed. These large works are on display in a sculpture park on his property, which has become a well-known landmark in north Bentonville. Visitors are welcome, both to the sculpture park and studio, by appointment. “Art is never wrong,” Edwards said. “I do art different than you do art. I don’t like having someone tell me that I’ve drawn a figure incorrectly. It’s not incorrect, it’s not wrong. It’s simply different.”
Learn more about Edwards, or schedule a visit to his sculpture park at tomedwardsllc.wordpress.com.
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Explore one-of-a-kind, American made pieces, conceived and crafted by
our founder. Our Paul Michael Company Exclusive pieces are made from locally harvested wood, American lumber and other reclaimed materials which are handcrafted and finished at our woodshop in Dermott, Arkansas. These pieces represent the finest quality in materials and craftsmanship available today.
Our woodshop is outfitted with the highest quality equipment including a saw mill that our logs are run through and then some are outside to air-dry for up to 4 years! Once this is complete we have a state of the art dehumidification kiln that the lumber is dried in. After these following processes are complete the furniture is painstakingly milled in our woodshop by our incredibly talented craftsmen!
Lake Village, AR | www.PaulMichaelCompany.com |
RECLAIMED LONG LEAF PINE TABLE
The long leaf pinewood is from the original stand of timber out of an old Chicago bank building circa 1885. The tabletop has a hand rubbed finished and the table is held together mechanically.
LIVE EDGE WALNUT BENCH
Our live edge walnut bench is made from the highest quality walnut logs available in the United States. After a 4 year process, it all culminates in our woodshop and is crafted into a beautiful bench that will last a lifetime.
WHITEWASH CYPRESS CABINET AND CONSOLE
Hand rubbed, sanded and in a milk paint finish, these pieces are made of solid cypress wood throughout and the intricate detailed woodwork is all made in our shop. We used a process to age the mirrors to appear as antiqued. The doorknob is solid brass.
TROLLEY CART COFFEE TABLE
The top of our trolley cart coffee table is made out of salvaged 18-wheeler floorboards and the frame is made of heavy duty oak. The pressed wheels were salvaged from farm implements in the Midwest.
CHANNELING THE FAMILIAR AND FAR-OFF
LITTLE ROCK ARTIST ERIN LORENZEN SUCCEEDS WITH A DESIGN INSPIRED BY HOMETOWN PRIDE AND A PASSION FOR TRAVEL. BY DWAIN HEBDA PHOTOGRAPHY MATTHEW MARTIN PRODUCED BY MANDY KEENER 36 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017
Potter, painter, sculptor, designer, dressmaker, screen printer, consultant, yogi and globetrotter Erin Lorenzen creates in her home studio.
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(Facing page) Lorenzen’s former studio at the Kramer School in Little Rock was the perfect open-space studio for her creations. Scrap fabric lends a homemade, one-ofa-kind feel to Lorenzen’s fashion designs. Bold colors and expertly executed collaging is Lorenzen’s trademark.
THE FAMOUS I HEART AR T-SHIRT!
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IF YOU’VE EVER SEEN THE “I Heart AR” T-shirt around The Natural State, you’re not alone. The design, which echoes the famous “I Love NY” logo of the ’70s, was an instant local success from the moment it sprung from the creative juggernaut that is the mind of Little Rock-born artist Erin Lorenzen. At first blush, the homespun simplicity of the design suggests a merely quaint and heartfelt homage to one’s place of origin, particularly when one discovers she came up with it while studying abroad in South America. However, as with most things in Lorenzen’s life and work, there’s always a lot more going on than at first appears. “I was in Argentina; I was living in Bueno Aires and I was making maps for paintings,” she said. “I took some silkscreen classes and I made a big map of Argentina and a big map of Arkansas and I noticed that we have the same initials, Argentina and Arkansas. So I kind of made it for both places. “I was coming back and forth between here and there and it just caught. So, yeah it was for Arkansas and Argentina because I really, really fell in love with that place, too.” Lorenzen didn’t elaborate on what became of the painting project, but the shirts sold like hotcakes. She’d barely unpacked her bags from her international jaunt via the Donaghey Scholars Program at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock before demand for the T-shirts and tank tops with hand-cut and sewn lettering of recycled cloth material kicked in. She launched her label ShopELL in 2002 and the ride began. “Marketing was not difficult, because I’ve never really had to,” she said. “It all sort of happened organically. The shirts I started making came out of the art I was making. I put them up in a place that also was showing my art and it just took off before I could even think of the word ‘marketing.’ Only now, about 10 years later, am I thinking, ‘Oh, OK I do have to think about this.’” Many people might have morphed the concept into a warehouse full of merchandise by now, but Lorenzen is not one of them. In fact, one of the most difficult balancing acts she’s had to pull off is tending to her cottage industry while indulging the spectrum of other artistic medium that is drawn from the same wellspring of creativity. “Potter, painter, sculptor, designer, dressmaker, screen printer, consultant, yogi and globetrotter,” is how her website sums her up. To that, add advocate for the arts in Arkansas, be it helping friends get an art community off the ground in Helena-West Helena, or just trying to pin down what it is about our state that inspires so many to create.
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(Opposite page) Like her dad, Lorenzen is an avid book collector. (Above) Lorenzen incorporates painting, found pieces, fabrics and more in her upcycled art. She’s known for her use of bright colors, powerful sayings and organic composition.
“Well, I think [Arkansas] is beautiful, but I don’t know if there’s something else that inspires that,” she said. “I feel like I’ve been trying to figure out what it is about Arkansas that interests people and what it is I love so much about it. It just seems to have something slightly undefinable. Charles Portis wrote something about it just being hard to get out of. There’s something to that.” The daughter of a bookstore owner, Lorenzen’s upbringing contributed to the elegant chaos of her creations. Her artwork runs the gamut of mixed media, and her fashion has a certain intentional shabbiness without looking forced or contrived. “At my dad’s bookstore, everything he read was always around him and there were always all kinds of different worlds at the tips of your fingers,” she said. “And my mom and my grandma are eclectic, too; they like to make things
from recycled materials just because that’s the way it was. My dad’s mom had a very Depression-era mentality and saved everything. So, my art is me trying to fit everything I love into my life and have it around me.” These days, her focus is back on the “I Heart AR” project, currently available in boutique stores around Arkansas, and how to shepherd it to a wider audience. It’s not something she can do by hand as she did in the early days, but something she’s determined to do the right way, nonetheless. “So far they have all been locally made and it’s my intention to keep going with that. It’s just important to me. I did hand-make them all in the beginning, but now I’ve had help from a lot of different people,” she said. “It is a challenge and I have had all kinds of fun experiences trying to figure out how to do it.”
Find Erin at erinlealorenzen.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY: RETT PEEK
WITHIN THE FOLLOWING CURATED COLLECTIONS, YOU’LL DISCOVER SOME OF THE MOST INNOVATIVE AND INSPIRING WORK BEING MADE IN THE NATURAL STATE. WE ASKED A GROUP OF EXPERTS, MAKERS AND ART COMMUNITY TRAILBLAZERS TO COMPOSE THESE COLLECTIONS OF THE ARTISTS AND DESIGNS THAT INSPIRE THEM. WE HOPE YOU’LL DISCOVER YOUR NEW FAVORITE MAKER, AND MAYBE BE MOVED TO ROLL YOUR SLEEVES UP AND TAP INTO YOUR OWN ARKANSAS-MADE INSPIRATION.
A F i r s t -C l A s s t i m e ... A F i resvte-C ryl A tsismte .i m e ... v e ry i m e .Our White River e Fishing America’s #1 Trout Resortt is Gaston’s. #1 Trout Fishing Resort is from Gaston’s. WhiteWe River floatAmerica’s trips for lunker trout are legendary coastOur to coast. do the float trips for do lunker trout legendary from coast coast. the work. All you is fish – inare style and comfort. Thentothere areWe thedoextras work. All you do is our fishlast – inname. style and comfort. Then One thereofarethe theSouth’s extras that make “resort” First-class lodging. that make “resort”featuring our last aname. First-class One of the South’s finest restaurants spectacular view.lodging. A private club. Tennis and featuring a spectacular A private Tennislodge and afinest pool.restaurants Nature trails for mountain bikingview. and hiking. A club. conference a pool. Nature for mountain and hiking. conference lodge for trails your group meetingsbiking or parties. Even a Aprivate for your group meetings orfly-in parties. Even a private landing strip for guests. landing strip for fly-in guests.
1777 River Road, Lakeview, AR 72642 870-431-5202 • Email gastons@gastons.com 1777 River Road, Lakeview, AR 72642 Lat 36 20’ 55” N Long 92 33’ 25” W 870-431-5202 • Email gastons@gastons.com Lat 36 20’ 55” N Long 92 33’ 25” W
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www.gastons.com www.gastons.com
A TOUCH OF GLASS
1. JAMES HAYES Inspired by nature and engulfed in the process, James Hayes is a predominant glass artist in Arkansas. Though his works are often very colorful, this particular chandelier makes a strong statement with its subtle color palette that demands your attention. hayesartglass.com.
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2. CHERI BOHN This mesmerizing sculpture, “Bohn Voyage,” by Cheri Bohn evokes a sense of mystery with its whimsical and almost fairytale-like narrative. The love and detail that’s apparent in this piece wins the hearts of its spectators with every plank of wood individually cut and sculpted. cheribohn.org. 3. CATHY GILBERT From largescale commercial projects to delicate commissions, Cathy Gilbert approaches her work with an artistic eye that brings a recognizable warmth and beauty to each of her projects. This particular piece of architectural stained glass does just that, making it a timeless work of art. facebook.com/architecturalartglass. 4. CUTTING EDGE GLASS CREATIONS Showing off your love and appreciation of art doesn’t stop at your living room wall. Cutting Edge Glass Creations, based in Farmington, has been helping clients make a bold statement in their homes and offices since 2008 under the direction of Beth Erbe. cuttingedgeglasscreations.com. 5. ED PENNEBAKER The artist’s unique ability to capture movement and rhythm in his work sets him apart, and it comes as no surprise that he is widely collected and cherished throughout the state. This piece titled “Hillside” embodies what he does best by evoking movement with subtle colors, steel, glass and limestone. redfernglass.com.
BRING GLASS ART INTO THE KITCHEN!
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6. LORING TAOKA She is an incredible contemporary fine artist living and working in Arkansas. Breathing life into a sheet of plexiglass is no easy task, but LoringTaoka’s keen eye for balance and design reflect beautifully in each of his pieces, including this stunning, minimal sculpture. loringtaoka.com.
MEET THE CURATOR Amber Perrodin is a working artist living in Springdale with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in printmaking from the University of Arkansas. Her work is represented by James May Gallery in Wisconsin. Aside from her personal art career, Perrodin is immersed in her local and regional arts community as the founder of The Little Craft Show and the Springdale Arts Initiative. Bringing her love of art and community into one exciting opportunity, Perrodin was recently hired as the programming director for the Downtown Springdale Alliance. amberperrodin.com.
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NATURAL ARKANSAS. NATIONAL TREASURE.
W
e started bottling water from a majestic, natural spring in the heart of Arkansas in 1871, and we’ve
been delivering our state’s natural goodness to the nation ever since. Two thousand acres of protected land surround our single-source spring, ensuring that nothing disturbs nature at work. This is natural Arkansas. Arkansas at its best.
ADVENTURE
2 1. OZARK SCRIMSHAW KNIFE Well known as the “Ozark Scrimshaw Man,” Kurtz Miller, specializes in traditional and custom scrimshaw art. He can often be found visiting with travelers and working his scrimshaw craft at The Art Colony in Eureka Springs. theartcolonyeurekasprings.com.
1 HAND-CRAFTED CANOE PADDLES
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2. CANOE PADDLES Artisans Dave and Deb Leedham of Mountain Home individually hand-craft premium wood products from spoons to canoe paddles. A combination of western red cedar and spruce, their canoe paddles are as functional as they are beautiful. facebook.com/thespoonworks-354006416084. 3. PJ’S FINESSE BAITS These high quality, hand-tied jigs and flies are for fishermen who enjoy trying to outsmart game fish primarily in ginclear waters. pjsfinessebaits.com. 4. 1900 OZARK REGION BANDANA Midway between the Appalachians and the Rockies lies the great Ozark uplift, a land of friendly hills and peaceful valleys and a people whose vision of hospitality is as great as the star-studded canopy of an Ozark night. Small batch, hand-dyed and printed on 100 percent cotton bandanas. mollyjogger.com.
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INDIE FOLK MUSIC BORN IN THE OZARKS
6 7 ALWAYS KEEP YOUR BLADE SHARP!
MEET THE CURATOR Rick Stagner is the founder of Mollyjogger, an authentic American heritage brand, based in the Ozark Mountains. In 2011 Rick took the leap to follow his own dream— merging an authentic American story, love of the Ozark outdoors and passion for the retail trade. Mollyjogger wholesales goods to retailers such as Orvis® and Garden & Gun Mercantile. Within the state, the company enjoys partnerships with Bourbon & Boots, Rich-N-Tone and DomesticDomestic. mollyjogger.com.
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5. NATIONAL PARK RADIO Emotional, gut-wrenching, but still incredibly hopeful, National Park Radio’s music reverberates important themes about life, love and difficult choices, all while echoing the enduring beauty of the band’s deep-seated roots in the Ozark Mountains. The new album, “The Great Divide,” showcases their unique brand of indie folk music. nationalparkradio.com. 6. ENSLEY SEASONED COATING MIX This is a deliciously seasoned coating mix for meats, fish and vegetables. Try rolling it in garden-fresh okra, squash, green tomatoes and onion. Sugar and fat free with no MSG. Ask for it at The War Eagle Mill. wareaglemill.com. 7. IRONQUILL™ POCKET HONING STONES Novaculite is a type of stone that can only be found in North America. The novacula stone formation of the Ouachitas of central Arkansas is geologically considered, without a doubt, to be the purest and finest quality. Ironquill offers soft Arkansas stones specially grooved to keep your fishing hooks and pocketknives sharp. mollyjogger.com. Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
Local: It’s good for the mind, body and soul. And it’s easy to do in Conway. As the City of Colleges, Conway is a breeding ground for creativity. Handmade crafts and works of art from local artisans and artists can be found in our museum-style galleries, juried exhibitions and seasonal farmers markets. And here’s good news for locavores: Conway also has an online farmers market offering fresh produce, eggs, meat and dairy year-round.
CVB@ConwayArkansas.org ConwayArk.com 866.7CONWAY
LEATHERWORK 1
1. FIELD NOTES CARRIER/WALLET Mountain Face Leather Goods makes quality, purpose-built leather goods. This field notes carrier and wallet combo is perfect for those with the active, on-the-go lifestyle that wish to combine things into one easy carrier. Hand-stitched, this piece will take the abuse and help keep you organized. instagram.com/mtnface_ leather_goods.
PERFECT FOR AN EVERYDAY NOTEBOOK
2. ZIPPERED HANDBAG This zippered handbag from Jack Lloyd’s Dower is truly a piece of art, and the vegetable tanned leather will age beautifully with time. You don’t see a ton of zippers in leatherwork, so you know there is a ton of patience and attention to detail here. dower.co.
2 MADE WITH NEW & VINTAGE LEATHER!
3. LEATHER BACKPACK This backpack is just the coolest— constructed with new leather, vintage cowboy chaps and belt straps. Using vintage leather adds to the beauty and character of each piece, making it totally oneof-a-kind. The bag is hand-sewn, the straps are attached by hand using copper rivets, and two vintage Nava jo rings have been added for beautiful detail. joebrogdon.com.
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4. LEATHER BELT WITH BRASS BUCKLE This is American Native’s standard 1.5-inch leather belt with a solid brass buckle. It’s cut from American leather and tanned at Hermann Oak in St. Louis. We try to source as much as we can from the U.S., as close as we can. Clean lines and simplicity are key in this belt, and the natural vegetable tanned leather will patina with wear, making the belt uniquely yours. americannativegoods.com.
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5. STRIPED JOURNAL COVER I love the contrast canvas stripe paired with leather on this journal cover from Authentic Sundry. I just like when textiles are complemented with leather, and this piece has it. It’s easy, fits a 4.5-by-6.5-inch journal, and inserts can be picked up at Barnes and Noble. etsy.com/shop/ authenticsundry.
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MEET THE CURATOR American Native, founded by brothers Bobby and Clayton (pictured) Chamberlain, is a company rooted in the ideals of beauty, quality and functionality. The company makes products here in the U.S., with attention to craft and detail. Though born and raised in Oklahoma, Fayetteville is where the brothers call home. Their joy for the hands-on approach to creating beautiful things with hand, heart and attention to quality continues. americannativegoods.com.
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6. LEATHER FILLION Little Mountain Bindery’s high-quality, oil-tanned leather Fillion is a refillable diary, and much more. Once you’ve filled a notebook or calendar, just slip it off its elastic and pop in a new one. The Fillions and pocket inserts are designed to work with all three sizes of Moleskine notebooks and planners. littlemountainbindery.com.
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A town of culture, community, and culinary in Northwest Arkansas Contact Visit Bentonville for a travel guide. 800-410-2535
visitbentonville.com
SAM WALTON DIDN’T DISCOUNT ARKANSAS. It wasn’t by accident Sam Walton chose Arkansas to plant his idea of a retail store featuring everyday, low-priced goods. The commitment and strong work ethic of Arkansans dictated to Mr. Sam that he had no reason to look elsewhere. Sam Walton didn’t discount Arkansas. In fact, he found himself in Good Company here, ultimately building the world’s largest retailer. With a booming global business climate that includes six thriving Fortune 500 companies and countless other success stories, Arkansas offers many great reasons to relocate or expand here. Sam Walton, Founder Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
Grow your bottom line in Arkansas with 5 key advantages. Learn more at ArkansasEDC.com.
ArkansasEDC.com | 1-800-ARKANSAS Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
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EDIBLES 1. WICKED MIX It’s a gourmet snack mix made in both sweet and savory flavors. Calling them a high-end Chex Mix is almost insulting, but that’s the best way to pull you inside the addictive world of this little snack. It’s a perfect road trip or “just because” snack. They can easily be found in grocery and specialty stores. wickedmixes.com.
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2. COCOA BELLE CHOCOLATES These are the prettiest and tastiest little chocolates I’ve had the luxury of eating. The flavors are inventive and on-point, and they look perfect. cocoabellechocolates.com.
BEAUTIFUL & DELICIOUS
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3. BONTA TOSCANA GARLIC SAUCE This is a fantastic product. It has a cult following in Little Rock and rightfully so. The pungent garlic steeped with tomatoes and olive oil creates a sauce like no other. It’s phenomenal as is, but I’ve been known to throw it in with my Chicken Tikka Masala as well. bontatoscana.com.
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4. CHOCOLATE SOUR CREAM CAKE This cake is one of my favorite cakes in town. I am biased because I created it to satiate my own palate. It’s rich, chocolaty and indulgent without putting you down for the night. It’s a great combination of flavors as well as a crowd-pleaser. You can snag a slice of your own at Heights Taco & Tamale. facebook.com/just-desserts-by-zara. 5. MONK SAUCE Legend has it that this hot sauce will give you the inner peace of a monk. OK, I made that up, but it will make you happy and that’s pretty much the same thing. It’s interesting because it is actually made by monks. Better yet, it’s a great hot sauce. The green is a bit milder than the red, but both are flavorful. countrymonks.biz.
6 HANDMADE PASTA FROM TONTITOWN
6. POZZA’S PASTA Lucius and Alison Mhoon continue the tradition of producing handmade pasta just as their Italian ancestors did when they settled in Tontitown more than 100 years ago. The traditional spaghetti is made with unbleached all-purpose flour and eggs, and contains no preservatives. It’s handmade and airdried to create superior pasta with a unique taste and texture. pozzas-pasta. myshopify.com.
MEET THE CURATOR Zara Abbasi Wilkerson is a self-admitted collector of “skills.” She lives in Little Rock with her husband and two children, and comes from an extremely tight-knit family. She is a licensed attorney, but practices on her cake-decorating skills nowadays. Most days she can be found in yoga pants running around town delivering desserts as a form of exercise. facebook.com/just-desserts-by-zara.
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LIBATIONS WE LOVE THIS DESIGN!
1 2 1. MONIKER FERMENTS’ KOMBUCHA Moniker Ferments is a small Fayettevillebased Kombucha company. Kombucha is a healthy and delicious fermented tea-based beverage that has seen tremendous growth over the past few years. Moniker Ferments sells cans as well as kegs to many cafe and bar establishments. monikerferments.com. 2. OZARK BEER COMPANY’S IPA A lower alcohol classic American-style IPA. This beer has notes of pineapple, mango and pine. All hops are sourced from a single farm in Oregon. Ozark Beer Company’s simple commitment to quality over quantity shows in every beer they make. ozarkbeerco.com.
3 TRY ALL THE FLAVORS!
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3. KYYA CHOCOLATE ECUADORIAN SAUCE It’s smooth, rich chocolate sauce made in Elm Springs using cacao sourced from Ecuador. It has notes of dark red fruits with a slight winey aftertaste, and works great with dairy and espresso. kyyachocolate.com. 4. ONYX COFFEE LAB’S ETHIOPIA HAMBELA BUKU Hambela is a farm in the Guji zone of Ethiopia that I’ve visited the last two years, and have watched blossom into some of the best coffee from my favorite coffee-growing region. This coffee comes in two different process—washed and natural—yielding clean, sweet, complex fruit notes. onyxcoffeelab.com 5. MOUNTAIN VALLEY SPRING WATER This mineral-rich water is bottled right from the natural springs of the Spa City. Drinking it is about as close to nature as you can get. The still water is fantastic, but if you want to try something new, check out the sparkling varieties with flavor essence like blackberry pomegranate. mountainvalleyspring.com.
MEET THE CURATOR Jon Allen is the owner of Onyx Coffee Lab. He is the driving force behind Onyx’s mission to source the world’s best coffee and serve it in Northwest Arkansas. Much of his time is spent traveling to coffee-producing countries and buying coffee directly from farmers. Design and presentation are also two of his passions, and he combines those with coffee in the labs located in Fayetteville, Springdale and Bentonville and forthcoming in Rogers. Outside of work he likes spending time with his wife and his 2-year-old daughter. Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
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WALL MURALS ARE TRENDING!
DONALD ROLLER WILSON IS THE KING OF DARK & WHIMSY!
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THIS ATMOSPHERIC ABSTRACT HAS HIGH DRAMA
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THIS PROMOTIONAL ART HAS SOUL!
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Celebrating Arkansas Artists
1. GEORGE DOMBEK When you think of watercolor, you tend to think transparent washes. George Dombek’s technique in “Rocks at the Great Lakes” is a solid grounding of the subject. His “rock” paintings are some of his older work, but the ones with which I am still enamored. georgedombek.com. 2. LADAWNA WHITESIDE This is abstract art that exceeds the realm of normalcy, setting a standard for all. LaDawna Whiteside’s paintings and drawings are beyond the usual splashes of color called abstract. You feel the emotion that occurred when she created a work. “Growth Rings,” to me, symbolizes my continual journey of art. ladawnawhiteside.com. 3. DONALD ROLLER WILSON My earliest encounters with Donald Roller Wilson were as his student at the University of Arkansas. His influence has followed me all my life. Though I am not a realist painter that emulated his style, what he taught countless students in the basics of drawing, painting, substrates and creativity still appear in his students’ works. donaldrollerwilson.com.
of the Clinton Center lobby Glass Heart by James Hayes
Decorative Haiti Pin made in Little Rock $5.00
4. JAQUITA PHILLIPS BALL I chose “Explosions of Drama” from my Atmospheric Abstracts series because of my newfound love affair with the sky and its drama. Most people would have expected to see one of my Fauvist-style donkeys—someday I’ll insert a few of them in these new abstracts! jaquitaball.com. 5. KENNETH SIEMENS This aerosol pulp mural by Kenneth Siemens, also known as “Lefty Eyeball,” was one of the first great murals to explode on the scene in downtown Bentonville. The skillfully rendered graphics instantly transport you to the days of comic books and late night sci-fi b-movies. leftyeyeball.com. 6. BRENDA DALE MORGAN Give me a painting of a horse, where I see the gloss of his coat, the velvet of his nose and the anatomy of muscle and veins, then you’ve given a gift of realism in art and a catalyst to my memory bank of raising horses as a child. That is the gift that Brenda Dale Morgan gives in “Western Beauty.” brendamorganart.com. 7. CHERYL MOORE The artist must think not only creatively, but also be aware of the commercial intent behind this illustrative commercial poster—literally a piece of art that must sell an event. The poster draws you in to actually feel the rhythm of the blues being played and experience the joy of the performing musicians. cmoorefinearts.com.
Arkansas Blues CDs by various musicians $16.95
8. TIM TYLER In “Happy Homemaker” you find the essence of a powerful woman, escaping the confines of society’s happy little homemaker, boxed in by stereotypes. The photorealism, the red of the dress and the knife, resembling a machete I once had, only make this oil painting by Bentonville’s Tim Tyler more powerful. tctyler.com.
MEET THE CURATOR
“Paint in my hair and paint on my feet” is a motto Jaquita Phillips Ball lives and breathes. Always in search of the next art adventure, whether it is traveling remote back roads to find the next inspiration, searching out Arkansas artists for the gallery, or scouring the world for that next unique art piece for her home. For her, life began as an artist for KARK TV, Channel 4, drawing and painting the drama of courtrooms and daily news stories, then evolved into marketing and nonprofit work before owning her art business, Red Cat Art, in Bentonville. Even now, the evolution and revolution continues. jaquitaball.com Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
Arkansas Leather Coaster made in Searcy $7.95 Shop Online or in Store Today ClintonMuseumStore.com Little Rock, Arkansas 501-748-0400 Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 53
PHOTO FINISH
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4 MATT WHITE’S PORTRAITS EXUDE EMPATHY
3 5 NIGUEL VALLEY EXPOSES NATURAL WARMTH
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MEET THE CURATOR A musician, photographer and sometimes poet, art informs most aspects of Joshua Asante’s life. Asante is a guitarist and lead vocalist for two bands, Velvet Kente and Amasa Hines. The latter released its first full-length album, “All The World There Is,” in early 2014. Whether he is behind a camera lens or onstage with a band, the aim remains the same. Clarity, positivity and ascension through art. vsco.co/ joshuaxasante/images.
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1. DAVE ANDERSON I loved Dave’s work long before I met him, and when I finally did, it was easy to understand why. It’s the kindness and sincerity that spill out of him, and the way he hooks you when he tells a story. It’s all the things that make this image, titled “Among the Lilies, Mali,” and lend layer upon layer of ma jesty to his extensive body of work. dbanderson.com. 2. CRAIG WYNN Earth’s beauty in constant evolution and decay; and our disregard for its fragility only accelerates that fact. Craig’s nature work is filled with wonderment and tenderness for this place, and it makes this piece, “White Gypsum Dunes,” a must-have. craig-wynn.com. 3. MATT WHITE Albert Maysles once said that empathy is a photographer’s greatest tool. Whether he’s naturally endowed with it or discovered it later in life, Matt White gets it. His vibrant portraiture, like this work titled “Aunt Ace,” is a baptismal of empathy and regard; a thing this world can use much more of. Instagram @mattwhite17. 4. NANCY NOLAN Nancy likes to say that photography came easy to her; as if any magical thing is easily made. Magic is work. She has the ability to wield light, impose her will upon shadows and yield compositions like this one, titled “Henry,” that teeter on perfection. nnphoto.co. 5. NIGUEL VALLEY Natural warmth. The words sum up the images of the dexterous colorist Niguel Valley. Photographers have always been drawn to color manipulation, and with the advent and explosion of digital photography, possibilities are all the more limitless. It’s refreshing to encounter work like this piece, titled “Nyla,” that documents life in a way that mirrors the natural abilities of the human eye. niguelvalley.com. 6. JOHN DAVID PITTMAN Since 9/11, the media outlets have force fed the country barrels of misery that wash over us in waves of despair. From that we find ourselves in a spiritual dark age where distilled beauty is seldom celebrated and apathy is rampant. John David’s masterful captures like this one, titled “Faith and Truphera,” serve as a reminder that love is not remote, and that there are many places where light yet resides. johndavidpittman.com.
A shopping extravaganza of Arts, Crafts, Jewelry and Food created and produced by Arkansans WAR MEMORIAL STADIUM
Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
Fri., March 31, 2017 5 Preview Event Sat., April 1 5 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Tickets: $5 (Children 5 and under free)
We are now accepting applications for vendors! For applications or more information about Arkansas Proud, visit wmstadium.com and click on event information, or contact Vickie Hart at vickie.hart@arkansas.gov or 501-537-5227. Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 55
PATCHWORK
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“TECHNICOLOR MOUNTAIN TRIO” ON RECLAIMED BARN WOOD!
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1. PAPER PAINTINGS Monica Jordan is a self-taught artist in Bella Vista working with a variety of media since she was a young girl. After graduating from the University of Arkansas, Jordan went on to teach Spanish to 7th-12th graders in Northwest Arkansas. She then worked to add visual arts to her teaching licensure and secured a position teaching art. She began experimenting with paper collage a little more than two years ago, and it has since become her medium of choice. She won an award for “Best 2D” at the Bentonville Art Market. etsy. com/shop/msartteacherlady. 2. JUDY SHANTZ HONEY Watercolor, acrylic and collage are Judy Shantz Honey’s primary mediums, with work on paper and on canvas. She’s enjoyed an interest in art since childhood, and studied art at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville and in the Museum School at the Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock. She expertly pieces paper, paint and other mediums together to form works of art. butlercenter.org/art/artist/judyhoney. 3. SEWN QUOTES Erin Lea Lorenzen likes to create things from reclaimed materials. Whether crafting T-shirts, dresses and jewelry, or paintings and sculpture, Lorenzen hopes to encourage saving and mending in a culture that is often wasteful and excessive. Inspired by her life experiences, her works are equal parts diary, scrapbook and travellog. erinlealorenzen.com. 4. SONGBIRD PRINT OILCLOTH BAG Rosie Rose is a clothing designer and textile artist whose creative designs step outside the lines of traditional fashion. Gathering inspiration from pop artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, as well as a wildly romantic style inspired by the likes of Frida Kahlo and Audrey Hepburn, Rosie’s clothing and art are vibrantly colorful, and filled with retro inspiration, and fascinating texture and detail. Her aim is to create strikingly beautiful artworks made with sustainable materials. She frequently uses upcycled materials, giving old things a new life of beauty and purpose. etsy.com/shop/ rosierosedesigner.
4 THIS OILCLOTH POUCH MAKES US WANT TO SING!
MEET THE CURATOR Brandy Thomason McNair launched Bella Vita Jewelry in 2008 at local art fairs, retail craft shows and online at bellavita jewelry.net. Eight years in, Bella Vita Jewelry can be found at 150+ brick-and-mortar stores across the country and in her retail shop in Little Rock. Brandy lives and works in downtown Little Rock. All of her jewelry is made by hand in the Bella Vita Studio, which is housed in a beautifully restored century-old building. When she isn’t tending to her growing small business, Brandy enjoys spending time in the great outdoors with her husband, perusing local flea markets, and cuddling with her 13-year-old lab mix, Arlo. bellavita jewelry.net.
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PAPER TRAIL
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AN UPLIFTING REMINDER!
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1. OK PRINT Perhaps the perfect print to admire after a rough day of work, or simply to hang above your desk as a reminder that, indeed, everything will be OK! I really love Sarah Walker’s illustration style. Minimal and on-trend. saralilaswalker.com. 2. ENCHANTED ANIMALS WALL CALENDAR This calendar is my favorite calendar from our new collection. It is filled with 12 new illustrations of whimsical animals that are sweet enough for adults and kids alike to enjoy! Each page is sure to bring a smile to your face, and allow you to keep track of 2017 with ease. Hole punched at the top and tied together with twine, this also makes an excellent stocking stuffer or office gift. gingiber.com.
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3. YOU NEED YOUR HEART TO FIGHT PRINT I love everything that Bloom and Thistle creates, and this print reminds me of scientific textbook illustrations, and has a very positive message! etsy. com/shop/bloomandthistle. 4. LET’S FLOAT AWAY PRINT Ink Stand Studio always brings a dose of imagination to any piece that they create, and I love the carefree image of a hot air balloon floating into the clouds. I think this print would look especially nice in a nursery or kid’s room! etsy.com/shop/inkstandstudio.
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5. ARKANSAS POSTCARD I adore letterpress, and I think that I Am Here Cards are lovely and gift-able. This little postcard says a lot about our great state, and I think that these would be especially wonderful to send to a friend that has moved away to remind them of how awesome Arkansas truly is! iamherecards.com.
WE LOVE THIS BUFFALO’S STANCE!
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6. AMERICAN BUFFALO ART PRINT May We Fly features a large array of animal-focused illustration work, and I find her American Buffalo Art Print especially enjoyable. It feels rustic and playful. This would be a great piece to frame and gift to our Okie neighbors! maywefly.com.
MEET THE CURATOR Stacie Bloomfield is the illustrator of Gingiber, an animal-centric paper goods brand based out of Springdale. Stacie has illustrated for companies such as The Land of Nod, West Elm, Moda Fabrics and many more. Gingiber products can be found in more than 250 stores across the country. You can shop online anytime at gingiber.com.
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YOU WOOD LIKE IT
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MONICA JORDAN HAS MASTERED MIXED MEDIA
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MEET THE CURATOR In 2011, Olivia Trimble began Sleet City Writing with a passion to revive traditional sign painting in Northwest Arkansas. She’s a second-generation sign painter, and has had the privilege of working with some incredible clients over the past five years such as Onyx Coffee Labs, Thrive, Ozark Beer Co., Shindig Paperie and Made By Few. She helps orchestrate events including Oktoberfest On Dickson and The Cattywampus Co-op, which is a fantastic new indie craft show. Her biggest project to date is raising her two fiercely smart and independent daughters, Calliope and Eleanor.
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Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
1. CIGAR BOX GUITAR How cool is this handmade cigar box guitar?! Each one of these little marvels is handmade deep in the Ozark hills. They are a perfect, one-of-a-kind gift for the musician in your life. facebook. com/circlercigarboxguitars. 2. BEARD COMB I have quite a few beardos in my life, and I love that McClaren Woodshop makes these sweet beard combs from salvaged skateboards! These combs make the perfect gift for your favorite beard owner. mcclarenwoodshop.com. 3. WOOD MOSAIC The wood mosaics that Jake Lewis creates are intricate, bold and seem to be popping up all over the state. This one is my favorite, a Deathly Hallows emblem from “Harry Potter.” woodworxworkshop. com.
Authentic Arkansas experiences are handcrafted every day at the Ozark Folk Center State Park. More than 20 artisans demonstrate and sell their crafts - like leather working and blacksmithing - based on the heritage and resources of the Ozark Highlands. Visit with the artisans in the Craft Home of Village open April through November. OzarkFolkCenter.com
4. THE POUR OVER James Handmade Goods has just released its first product, a gorgeous pour over setup. Its coffee pour overs are crafted using reclaimed brass parts and local hardwood. The lab-style brass arm and ring adjust to accommodate a wide variety of pour over cones. The bases are finished with a simple foodsafe coating. jameshandmadegoods. storenvy.com. 5. RECLAIMED WOOD COFFEE TABLE I’ve had my eye on this beautiful slab of elm since Jesse Weegens salvaged it from a tree that was downed during a storm two years ago. I love the way that the steel base plays off of the elm tabletop, can you imagine having such a gorgeous coffee table? theamericanestates.com. 6. WOODEN PEG DOLLS This set of hand-painted wooden peg dolls is a big favorite of mine and my kids! These are super detailed, and fantastic for a little pop of fun on a shelf, or as the official residents of your purse. @woodenlegnamedsmith. 7. STEEL CREEK PAINTING This paper painting of Steel Creek is striking. Monica Jordan is an art teacher by day, but by night she creates epic collages from ripped bits of paper. From animals, to portraits, to a series of pieces based on beloved locations on the Buffalo River, Monica creates incredible artwork that anyone can enjoy. This piece is on alder with a walnut frame. @ms.art.teacher.lady. Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
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arkansas-made.com Arkansas Made | 2016-2017 59
OH, HONEY!
1. HONEY SOAP With my busy schedule, making time to unwind and relax is so important. Bathhouse Soapery makes yummy bath products that can make tub time feel like a trip to the spa. This honey soap is luxurious and made with natural ingredients that leave your skin silky smooth and smelling amazing. bathhousesoap.com.
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2. DIY BEEHIVE KIT Between pesticides and habitat loss, our honeybee population is dying off. While you may not be able to tackle the pesticide industry or global warming, you can become a backyard beekeeper to help provide a home for the honeybees in your neighborhood. A husband-wife team in Russellville has set up an online Etsy shop, All Things Honey, where you can buy a DIY Beehive Kit. etsy.com/ shop/allthingshoney.
3 THESE ARE THE BEE’S KNEES!
3. BEEKEEPER ART Because I have an affinity for bugs, I’m in love with Bri Peterson’s artwork. Her dreamy designs are not currently sold anywhere online or in local galleries, but I’m sure that will change soon. In the meantime you can catch her work at local art markets, like South on Main’s Art of the Bar, and follow her on Instagram @bumble_bri_ artwork. 4. HONEYBEE NECKLACE Recently I started developing part of my jewelry line that features bugs. My grandmother and great aunt had a few bug broaches in their collections. While I’m completely terrified of them in real life, I find bugs absolutely beautiful. I feel like bug jewelry is my perfect solution to being able to get up-closeand-personal without getting stung! dimestorediamonds.etsy.com.
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5. SWEET LIKE HONEY PRINT If you haven’t been to South on Main and noticed, I have this thing for Mason jars. They remind me of hot Southern nights at my grandmother’s house catching fireflies in the backyard. Between the Mason jar and honey, I can picture this adorable print by Inked in the Ozarks in any Southern lady’s kitchen. etsy.com/ shop/inkedintheozarks.
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6. THANKS BEE THANK-YOU CARD In the digital world we live in, a handwritten note is such a treat. This thank-you card with bee art from Gingiber would surely brighten anyone’s day! gingiber.com.
MEET THE CURATOR Amy Kelley Bell is the creative director for inVeritas, a public affairs firm with offices in Little Rock, Rogers and Washington, D.C. In 2013, she and her husband, Matt Bell, opened restaurant, bar and music venue South on Main. Amy is responsible for the branding and marketing of their business, and twice a year co-hosts an art market at South on Main called Art of the Bar. In her spare time, Amy finds joy in creating unique jewelry under the brand Dimestore Diamonds. dimestorediamonds.etsy.com.
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SOAPS & SUNDRIES
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A BEARD GROOMING ESSENTIAL
1. ROSE PETAL BATH SALT Dive into a warm bath of rose petals and sea salts by Prime Time Scrubs in Little Rock to detoxify and relax muscles and joints. primetimescrubs.etsy.com.
2 3 4 A SWEET LIGHT MOISTURIZER!
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2. BEARD OIL We can’t leave the guys out! Is your beard a little dry and rough? A little less “macho man” and a little more “scraggly grandpa?” If so, you need this beard oil by The Bubble Alchemist in Little Rock. bubblealchemistsoaps.com. 3. ALL NATURAL FACIAL TONER A refreshing facial toner with vitamin C and lavender to rinse away the day and leave your skin feeling naturally smooth and refreshed. Find it at Scarlet Oak Boutique in El Dorado. scarletoakboutique.etsy.com. 4. TAHITI SWEETIE WHIPPED BODY BUTTER This is a whippy, plush body butter made with the finest ingredients to nourish and protect. Shea butter, apricot kernel and rice bran are perfectly gentle and skinloving. Made by The 3 Brooms in Wynne. etsy.com/shop/the3brooms. 5. SQUARE BRASS HAIR FORK Hold your hair back beautifully as you start your relaxation time with this accessory by Two Feathers Jewelry of Wynne. This could become an heirloom piece to be passed down. etsy.com/shop/ twofeathersjewelry. 6. CERAMIC SOAP DISH Paula Smith’s beautiful work can be used as a soap dish or jewelry dish! facebook.com/ p.s.pottery.
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ADD CERAMICS TO YOUR BATHROOM DECOR
7. BROWN SUGAR AND SPICE SCRUB Food for the skin! A great treat to banish dry, flaky skin and nourish. The oils in this scrub by Happy Dragon Skincare of Little Rock easily absorb into the skin, while the sugar is gentle for most skin types .facebook.com/ happydragonskincare.
MEET THE CURATOR Charlene Simon has been a soapmaker since the late ’90s. She has advanced certifications in the process of formulating soap and cosmetics. Her kitchen table hobby turned into a business with boutiques throughout four states. She is also the vice president of The Handcrafted Soap & Cosmetic Guild. She lives in Hot Springs and loves that it’s known as “The Spa City!”
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THAT’S SO METAL
1. I SLAY NECKLACE This is one of my favorite Bang-Up Betty designs to wear because it combines my love for Beyoncé with my love for “The Lord of the Rings.” bangupbetty.com. 2. I LIKE TOTALLY LOVE YOU CARD I, like, totally love this card by cheeky card designer Stephanie Maxwell. The best thing about it is it’s made with gold embossing powder, so the shiny letters are raised and you can run your fingers over them and feel them. Who doesn’t love the feel of gold in their hands? etsy.com/shop/ stephunnysays.
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3. AMERICAN PALE ALE Arkansas’s local beer selection holds a special place in my heart and my fridge. Lately I’ve been sipping Ozark Beer Company’s American Pale Ale, and the can is so beautiful I have a hard time putting it in the recycling bin when I’m done. ozarkbeercompany. com.
4 5 OFFICIALLY LICENSED “GAME OF THRONES” COINS!
5. “GAME OF THRONES” COINS At what I can only imagine is an elvish workshop in Springdale, Shire Post Mint makes fantasy into reality. Mint master Tom Maringer licensed with George R.R. Martin to make coins based on the books that inspired the “Game of Thrones” series. Collect coins from all of your favorite houses so you can feel as rich as a Lannister. shirepost.com.
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THIS ROLL & TUMBLE PRINT SHINES!
4. BRASS PEN Brass is my metal of choice, and these pens made by Jeff Higgins are built with antique brass parts. There’s nothing more classic than carrying a nice pen around with you. etsy.com/shop/ higginshandmadegoods.
6. STAY GOLD PRINT This metallic foil print by Roll & Tumble Provisions is a shining reminder to stay true to myself, which is something I need from time to time when I have too many irons in the fire.@rollandtumble on Instagram. 7. FOLIAGE BUTTONS Bella Vista button-maker K&A Button Emporium presses and dries local foliage for these handmade buttons, so your lapel can be fresh and floral year-round. facebook.com/ somesweetbuttons.
MEET THE CURATOR Jewelry maker Stacey Bowers is behind Bang-Up Betty, a Little Rock-based hand-stamped jewelry and printed apparel company that specializes in cheeky designs. Bang-Up Betty has been featured on Buzzfeed, Bustle, Popsugar and on Cosmopolitan online as well as in Bust magazine. Visit bangupbetty.com to pursue and purchase her designs, and follow @bangupbetty on Instagram for new releases.
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Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
TEXTILE STYLE
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THESE SASSY TOTES WILL MOTIVATE YOU!
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1. GET SHIT DONE TOTE Stacey Bowers a.k.a. Bang-Up Betty, is one of these feral girls—modern, edgy, funny, cheeky and oh so stylish. This 100 percent cotton tote is the briefcase for the modern badass. It’s the perfect size with a message to “Get Shit Done.” bangupbetty.com. 2. NEEDLEWORK PORTRAITS Kim Brewer’s painterly New Wave embroidered portraits capture the iconic/ tragic mug shot in colorful thread. Think the 1975 arrest of The Rolling Stones in Fordyce meets Blondie in New York City—glamorous and gritty. They are a perfect chord between contemporary craft and fine art. kimbrewerart.com. 3. SILK PRINTED CAFTAN Leslie Pennel, a Northwest Arkansas fashion designer, is making women’s wear that screams laidback luxury. This silk caftan has texture, form and just the right amount of rock ’n‘ roll. facebook.com/esquedesign. 4. AR-T’S Justin Sharp, a transplant from Magnolia, marries small town nostalgia to urban landscape with his new line of edgy, graphic T-shirts. Arguably one of the most popular themes in art, literature and music, this Arkansas tee is a fresh take on a well-loved trend—all roads lead to home. facebook.com/arkansas.tshirts.
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5. NATURALLY DYED SILK TEXTILE Grainy film, bleached out like the jitteriness of a digital video, Sofia and her hand-dyed textiles from foraged plants grabs hold of me like a distorted shoegazer guitar solo. She’s inspired by her natural surroundings from California to Little Rock, and uses processes like sewing and dyeing to explore her personal maps. sofiavgonzalez.com.
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6. SELVEDGE DENIM AND LEATHER APRON American Native Goods epitomizes American style using all U.S.-sourced selvedge denim for these stunning aprons. A leather pocket, copper rivets and gold top-stitching make them perfect for your favorite mixologist or chef. americannativegoods.com.
A DENIM & LEATHER APRON TO LAST A LIFETIME MEET THE CURATOR Christie Turk is a Little Rock artist who moved to a sweet little town in Northwest Arkansas. You can find her drinking wine, sitting on porches, rearranging furniture, hosting art shows and planning her next creative venture. Ten things she can’t live without: books, wine and spirits, art, her dog, good TV shows, dining out, live music, great design, the desert and her son. Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
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SCULPTED
1 A JAZZY “BASS PLAYER”
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1. KEVIN COLE “Jitterbug Band” is a compilation of tar paper and aluminum sculpture from Pine Bluff native Kevin Cole’s “Totem Series.” His brilliant use of color, form, shapes and patterns explores abstraction and can be arranged to match your creative style. artistkcole.com.
3 THE FAMOUS PRESIDENTIAL FIST BUMP!
2. PERNELL WILLIAMS Little Rock wire artist Pernell Williams once again weaves with colored wire a musical conversation. “Bass Player” is perfect on top of the piano, and completes the jazz set. The detail and use of color with this unusual medium is quite a treasure. pernellwilliams.com. 3. SUSAN WILLIAMS Dumas native Susan Williams has created in bronze a tribute to FLOTUS and POTUS with “Respect and Solidarity.” This gracious portrayal of the famous fist bump during President Barack Obama’s first campaign alludes to the love and respect that we all desire! suswi.com. 4. BRYAN MASSEY Conway artist Bryan Massey’s “Final Tribute to Stradivarius” is a limestone and soapstone sculpture that pays tribute to the finest violin in the world. Any fan of classical music will see and feel the sound of music! aarsculptorsguild. org.
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5. HANK KAMINKSY “Chop #27” is a one-of-a-kind piece made of sanddesigned zinc and acrylic paint. It is part of Fayetteville artist Hank Kaminksy’s “Spirit Wind” series. This work can take you the same places a good book will! hankkaminsky.com.
MEET THE CURATOR Garbo Watson Hearne is the director of Pyramid Art, Books & Custom Framing/Hearne Fine Art in the historic Dunbar neighborhood in Little Rock. Since 1988, her business has focused on AfricanAmerican culture through art and literature. In 2004, Hearne earned her certificate for Appraisal Studies in Fine and Decorative Arts from New York University. In 2014 she was accepted as a certified member of the Appraisers Association of America. Her hobbies include reading, collecting art, juicing and traveling. hearnefineart.com.
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APPLY FOR AN ARTIST’S GRANT TAKING THE PLUNGE INTO A FULL-TIME ART CAREER CAN BE INTIMIDATING; LUCKILY THERE ARE SO MANY GRANTS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND SUPPORTING PROGRAMS AVAILABLE IN THE NATURAL STATE TO HELP EASE THE FINANCIAL BURDEN OF FOLLOWING YOUR ARTISTIC DREAMS. The Arkansas Arts Council, an agency of the Department of Arkansas Heritage, offers several programs to encourage, honor and assist literary, performing and visual artists. For more information visit arkansasarts. org or email robin.mcclea@arkansas.gov. INDIVIDUAL ARTIST FELLOWSHIPS Individual Artist Fellowships are unconditional, nonmatching awards made directly to individual artists. Awarded annually, these fellowships recognize the artistic creative excellence of the recipient’s work and enable the selected artists to devote more time and energy to creating their art and mastering their craft. Funding categories change each year. Up to nine fellowships of $4,000 may be awarded. The 2017categories are:
To be eligible for individual artist assistance grants, an artist must be at least 21 years old and must have been an Arkansas resident for at least one year at the time of application. SMALL WORKS ON PAPER Small Works on Paper is a juried visual art show that travels to 10 Arkansas venues throughout the state in a yearlong exhibition. The exhibition showcases artwork no larger than 18-by-24 inches by Arkansas artists who are members of the Arkansas Artist Registry. An out-ofstate juror selects a maximum of 40 pieces of artwork to tour with the exhibition. Up to $2,000 is available for juror-selected purchase awards, which become part of the Small Works on Paper permanent collection. For additional information, contact cheri.leffew@arkansas. gov. The Arts Council will begin accepting entries for the 2017 exhibition in July.
Literary Arts—Writing of Creative Nonfiction Performing Arts—Cinematic Arts, Director of Narrative or Documentary Film Visual Arts—Contemporary Craft The deadline is April 14, 2017. ARKANSAS ARTIST REGISTRY The Arkansas Artist Registry is a free online service that gives Arkansas visual artists the opportunity to post contact information, images of their work and a link to their personal websites on the Arts Council website. It is an excellent tool for artists who would like a web presence, and for arts enthusiasts and supporters to discover the rich variety of artists in Arkansas. Members are also eligible to participate in Small Works on Paper, the annual juried exhibition sponsored by the Arkansas Artist Registry. SALLY A. WILLIAMS ARTIST FUND The Sally A. Williams Artist Fund is set up to help individual artists with expenses incurred while pursuing
LOCALLY MADE ART · CLOTHING · JEWELRY HOME DECOR · HAND PAINTED FURNITURE
professional development. Assistance grants of up to $500 are intended to support professional development and advance an artist’s career. A request must be matched by the artist with a cash amount equal to or more than the grant. Artists may receive a minimum of $100 per application. For example, an artist may wish to participate in more than one workshop or project per year.
OppARTunities The OppARTunities Facebook group page lists art opportunities to Arkansas artists and arts organizations. The opportunities are posted from local, national and international funding sources, as well as entry calls for exhibitions and information regarding residencies, internships and professional development. Become a member at facebook.com/groups/arkansasarts. JUST FOR HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS! High school seniors are eligible to apply for scholarships in performing art, visual art, creative writing, slam poetry, fashion design and film through Thea Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to arts education in Arkansas. The foundation appoints 30 scholarships annually that combined equal $79,500. In addition, they partner with 27 colleges in Arkansas and nationally that promise to match or exceed those scholarships. For more information log onto theafoundation.org.
Repurposed and
handmade bird houses
by local artisan, Roger Allred. Find them at:
10301 N RODNEY PARHAM ROAD SUITE E4, LITTLE ROCK AR
501.350.4769
reinvented-vintage.com
CONTACT US FOR INFORMATION ON SCHEDULED CLASSES Discover more artisans at arkansas-made.com
OAK ST & HARKRIDER, FAULKNER PLAZA IN TOAD’S CROSSING CONWAY, ARKANSAS (501) 454-4570
匀唀倀䔀刀 䜀伀伀䐀 匀䴀䄀䰀䰀 䈀䄀吀䌀䠀 䤀䌀䔀 䌀刀䔀䄀䴀 䠀䄀一䐀䌀刀䄀䘀吀䔀䐀 圀䤀吀䠀 䠀伀刀䴀伀一䔀 䘀刀䔀䔀 䐀䄀䤀刀夀Ⰰ 一䄀吀唀刀䄀䰀 ☀ 䰀伀䌀䄀䰀 䤀一䜀刀䔀䐀䤀䔀一吀匀 䤀一 䰀䤀吀吀䰀䔀 刀伀䌀䬀Ⰰ 䄀刀
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MEET THE COVER ARTIST
TRIMBLE IS A SECONDGENERATION SIGN PAINTER.
OLIVIA TRIMBLE is a second-generation sign painter and the brains behind Sleet City Sign Writing in Fayetteville. She learned the craft from her stepdad, Eric Snodgrass, and has fond memories growing up of climbing into his old Volkswagen filled with the smell of fresh paint. “I began painting signs in 2011. I got my first big job from Onyx Coffee, who found me at a craft show and hired me. That job took my craft from being a hobby to a business,” Trimble said. You’ve probably seen her work for numerous Northwest Arkansas businesses, including Onyx Coffee, Shindig Paperie, Mustache Goods, Handlebar, Thrive and many more. In addition to sign painting and creating popup murals around town, she’s very active in the local art community. Trimble and a team of talented artists and organizers are stepping up to the plate to introduce their new craft show, The Cattywampus Co-op, with a holiday market on Dec. 10 to help fill the void left by the absence of The Little Craft Show this year. “It’s going to be a zany, fun, retro-themed holiday craft show,” Trimble said. Check out Trimble’s work on Instagram @ sleetcitywoman.
WE LOVE THE BRIGHT, BOLD COLORS OF THIS DESIGN!
PHOTOGRAPHY: NOVO STUDIO
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Discover an array of talent in the outstanding cities and towns of Arkansas!
“Great Cities Make A Great State� w w w.arm l.or g
HotSprings.org • 1-888-SPA-CITY