At Home in Arkansas | March 2023

Kaufman by Design West

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HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CONWAY | 1011 OAK ST.

A First-Class Time...

Publisher Kelly Fraiser (ext. 101) kelly@athomearkansas.com

Editor in Chief Stephanie Maxwell Newton (ext. 102) stephanie@athomearkansas.com

Art Director Bailey Dougan (ext. 106) bailey@athomearkansas.com

Online Editor Laura LaRue (ext. 104) laura@athomearkansas.com

Advertising Art Manager Taylor Evans taylor@athomearkansas.com

Contributing Copy Editor Susan Darcey

Contributing Photographer Rett Peek

Contributing Stylist Lauren Cerrato

Contributing Writers Tiffany Adams, Tate Gunnerson, and Rebekah Hall Scott

Account Managers Isabella James (ext. 103) isabella@athomearkansas.com

Olivia Haley (ext. 105) olivia@athomearkansas.com

Billing billing@athomearkansas.com

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ADVERTISING

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PRESENTING SPONSOR

Entergy

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Ted & LeighAnne Hiegel

Little, Shaneyfelt, Marshall & Co.

First Community Bank

Laura & Eddie Crow

EPA Demolition

Arvest Bank

BMW of Little Rock

Alliance Source Testing

Bailey Construction Company

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield

Ameriprise, Natural State Wealth Group

Environmental Protection Associates

Commerce Title & Closing Services

Bosley Construction Inc.

Cadence Insurance

CHI St. Vincent

Merrill Lynch

Kimberly Williams

Westlake Plumbing

Dr. and Mrs. Jay Marks

Elizabeth & Charles Clogston

Radiology Associates, PA

Seattle Genetics

Right at Home

Lumber One

FCS

Middleton, Inc.

Pat

PEPJ

Dr.

Tricore Capital

The Hatcher Agency

Vondran Orthodontics

Debbie & Michael Teague / The

Scenic Hill Solar

M’N Teriors Emily & Wake Young

Jim & Sarah Hendricks Batcheller

T. Alvin Eanes Building Co. Flywheel Energy LLC Ace Glass

Centennial Bank Forestwood Auto Malvern National Bank

Cindy & Doug McNeely

Brian Wayne - Little Rock Dermatology Media and More

Janet Jones Company

O’Brien Ventures

Clark Contractors, LLC

Kincannon Properties, LLC

Jenny & Jason Waters Crews & Associates

Chad Probst

Mrs. Kate and Dr. Carter Dalton

Christy and Scott Bray

Heike Talbert

Laura and Allen Westlake

Jenny and Paul Childress Fowler / Tonya & Bob Stanley

From the Editor

My penchant for collecting started young. Before I was even in kindergarten I was collecting feathers found in the backyard and on walks, stashing my favorites in a box, and proudly showing them off to family members who came to visit. I was taken by the variety of colors and the delicate detail of each feather's barb and vane. I’m reminded of that first collection while reading “In Grandmother’s Garden” in this issue (page 50), and I can imagine the homeowner’s grandchildren finding their own treasures to keep or give away. To be in nature is to be inspired, at any age.

I write this month’s letter from my home office thanks to a late January winter storm that’s coating everything outside my window in a sparkly glaze. Even the camellia bush, whose buds are set to burst in the coming weeks, looks like an ice sculpture. It’s hard to believe those flowers can endure such harsh conditions, but I know from years past that no amount of freezing rain will stop them. It’s the kind of thing that brings back my childlike wonder in the natural world. Here’s to warmer days (and camellia blooms) ahead.

Latest

After more than two years at his storefront in the Heights, Little Rock’s Jonathan Parkey is moving his design studio, J. Parkey, to 1408 Rebsamen Park Road. The new location, part of the Design District in Riverdale, will also house the office for real estate firm Capital Sotheby’s International Realty, making it what Jonathan hopes will be a one-stopshop for homebuyers. Keep up with Jonathan at jparkey.com.

Reader Responses

Your responses to our January/February 2023 issue, The Design Issue

“This edition is absolutely beautiful!”

— HANNAH H. VIA INSTAGRAM

“Favorite mail day. The content and quality of At Home in Arkansas blows me away each month!”

—PHILLIP B. VIA INSTAGRAM

LOVINGLY REFRESHED

“Love everything about this home. It is cocoon- like surrounding you in placid beauty. The bird painting is the cherry on top.”

—BARBARA F. VIA FACEBOOK

MAGENTA MAGIC

Stephanie Maxwell Newton, Editor in Chief STEPHANIE@ATHOMEARKANSAS.COM

GET IN TOUCH!

We love hearing from our readers. If you have a question, correction, or simply want to share your thoughts on a story, email stephanie@athomearkansas.com. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest (@athomearkansas).

“It's a nice departure from the moodier colors. Very cheerful!”

—HEARTFELT HOMES NWA VIA FACEBOOK

“Love that this look is back!”

—MARDI G. VIA FACEBOOK

“I am HERE for the pops of color!”

—THE CHAPEL AT RIDGERUNNER FARM VIA INSTAGRAM

Photos by Rett Peek

Required Reading

Forthcoming and recent releases we look forward to adding to our libraries

Pennsylvania-based designer Betsy Wentz’s first book, Design Happy: Colorful Homes for the Modern Family, is an inspiring take on practical solutions for casual, comfortable living, complete with design lessons and pro tips. Available February 21 from Gibbs Smith.

Now based on the West Coast, New Orleans native Suzanne Rheinstein still calls on Southern influence throughout her design, which is evident in the projects photographed for her third book, Suzanne Rheinstein: Welcoming Elegance Available March 21 from Rizzoli.

Charm School: The Schumacher Guide to Traditional Decorating for Today is a handbook for all who live for the quintessential design brand’s fabric and wallpaper patterns. The tome showcases more than 250 rooms from iconic names such as Mario Buatta and Sister Parish. Available March 8 from The Monacelli Press.

In Arranging Things, New York stylist Colin King and editor Sam Cochran team up to offer insights about composing vignettes, styling bookshelves, and working within scale, palette, texture, and proportion. Available March 14 from Rizzoli.

McAlpine: Romantic Modernism explores the marriage of architecture, interiors, and landscape design through work by Bobby McAlpine’s acclaimed firm, which has offices in Atlanta, Montgomery, Nashville, and New York City. This is McAlpine’s fourth book. Available April 4 from Rizzoli.

The Joy of Home is Alabama interior designer Ashley Gilbreath’s first book. Readers are invited to tour homes across the South, including Gilbreath’s own beach house, to soak in the designer's fresh take on traditional design. Available April 17 from Gibbs Smith.

The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Guild presents

April 22 - 23, 2023

April 29 - 30, 2023

Saturdays 10 - 6

Sundays 1 - 6

$100 per ticket

Tour Booklet & Map Provided

This spring, the doors of some of the most beautiful residences in Little Rock will open to you and your friends for the ASO Guild’s Symphony of Homes tour. You will experience the expert craftmanship of well-known builders and the creativity and magic of noted designers in settings that will inspire you. The tour will run for two weekends, allowing ticket holders to tour all homes in one weekend or choose a few each weekend. Join us for this premier event!

arsymphonyguild.org

Photos courtesy of publishers

Loloi “SAD-01 MH Terracotta Rug” from the Sadie Collection for Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines and “Fulton” table lamp. Cantrell Furniture Design Center, Little Rock CANTRELLFURNITURE.COM

“Alicanto” wrought iron chandelier with handmade terracotta birds.

GW Lighting & Home, Benton GWLIGHTINGANDHOME.COM

“Hamsa” demijohn vase. Lighting Emporium, Springdale LIGHTINGEMPORIUM.COM

Casafina “Fontana” serving bowl and totem pillar candles. Tipton & Hurst, Little Rock TIPTONHURST.COM

“Alba” hand-knotted rug available in various sizes. Pottery Barn, Rogers POTTERYBARN.COM

“Splatter” throw pillow in Tangerine. Urban Pad, Little Rock 501.664.4202

Velvet lumbar pillow. Fig Modern, Conway FIGMODERN.COM

Images courtesy of vendors

Images courtesy of Stephen Long (this page) and vendors

15-inch single-tap beverage dispenser in Stainless Steel from True Residential.

THE VIBE: LUXURY RESORT

Local Retailers

1 GW Lighting & Home, gwlightingandhome.com; Light Innovations, light-innovations.com; Sanders Supply, shopsanders.com; TEC Electric, tecelectric.com

2 & 3 Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com

4 Shayla Copas Lifestyle, shaylacopas.com

5 Botanica Gardens, botanicagardens.com

6 Abide Furniture, abidefurniture.net; Cantrell Furniture Design Center, cantrellfurniture.com; Lighting Emporium, lightingemporium.com

7 Antique Brick Outdoors, antiquebrickoutdoors.com

8 Antique Brick Outdoors, antiquebrickoutdoors.com; Congo Fireplace & Patio, congofp.com; Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com

7 Laura Park “Avignon” outdoor pillow.

1 “Open Air Riverwood” hanging light in Warm Bronze from Hinkley.

8 Woodard wicker lounge chair from the Canaveral collection.

4 “Andreu” garden stool in Copas Blue by Shayla Copas for Chelsea House.

5 Striped ceramic pot and stromathe plant.

3 “Portofino” octagon manual-lift umbrella from Tropitone.

6 Loloi II “RAI-03 Natural/Ivory” indoor/outdoor rug from the Rainier collection.

2 “KOR Cushion Lounge with Shade” in Winchester with Moab finish from Tropitone.

Local Retailers

1

THE VIBE: COTTAGE COMFORT

Available to the trade. 2 Wholesale Electric, netwes.com; Light Innovations, light-innovations.com

3 The Good Earth Garden Center, thegoodearthgarden.com

4 Shayla Copas Lifestyle, shaylacopas.com 5 Antique Brick Outdoors, antiquebrickoutdoors.com; Congo Fireplace & Patio, congofp.com; Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com 6 Burton Pools & Spas, burtonpools.com; Congo Fireplace & Patio, congofp.com; Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com 7 Antique Brick Outdoors, antiquebrickoutdoors.com

1 “Azalea” rug in Charcoal and Cream from Surya.

2 “Surrey Weather+” fan in Matte White from Kichler Lighting.

4 22-inch outdoor throw pillow in Botanical Gardens Pistachio by Shayla Copas for Polywood.

5 “Et Cetera” iron planter from Woodard.

7 Blue and white “Four Seasons” garden stool.

6 Lloyd Flanders “All Seasons” lounge rocker with padded seat.

Trio of wood and metal lanterns.

THE VIBE:

MODERN BACKYARD

Local Retailers

1 Light Innovations, light-innovations.com; Lighting Emporium, lightingemporium.com 2 Antique Brick Outdoors, antiquebrickoutdoors.com; Congo Fireplace & Patio, congofp.com; Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com 3 Antique Brick Outdoors, antiquebrickoutdoors.com 4 Botanica Gardens botanicagardens.com 5 & 6 Ken Rash’s Arkansas, kenrashsoutdoorfurniture.com 7 The Good Earth Garden Center, thegoodearthgarden.com 8 Antique Brick Outdoors, antiquebrickoutdoors. com; Southern Loft, mysouthernloft.com

1 “Divergence” six-light outdoor chandelier by Hubbardton Forge.

2 “Coal PK300” from PK Grills.

3 “Dots Mist” outdoor pillow from Wendy Jane by Gabby.

5 “Contour” lounge chair by Tropitone.

Metal plant mister.

6 Braxton Culler “Olivia” pouf ottoman in Denim.

7 Ceramic pot and snake plant.

Custom

In 2017, Eric Sheridan made a swing bed for his wife, Farra. He didn’t know at the time that it would turn into a business. After moving back to central Arkansas from Mississippi, where every front porch had a swing, Farra asked Eric if he could build one for her. A photo posted on Instagram was all it took for interest to spread like wildfire, first by word of mouth from friends and family. Before long,

Nate & Lane Design Company was born. “All of a sudden I had a business, and it has taken me all over the country,” Eric says.

Now, you can order a Nate & Lane Swing Bed directly from the website, choosing from a variety of complete sets or purchasing the furniture, cushions, and hanging hardware separately—with customization available for every detail. Nate & Lane swing beds hang in

country

44 states across the U.S. and Canada and the Bahamas. “I’ve been fortunate to interact and connect with so many people across the U.S. over the past five and a half years, and that’s what I enjoy the most. Forming a life long connection with every client, whether they’re a few states away or right here in Arkansas, has been the most rewarding aspect of Nate & Lane,” Eric says.

swing beds by Nate & Lane hang across the

Smart Solutions

With this west Little Rock renovation, designer Shayla Copas proves you don’t have to gut a kitchen to completely transform it. Her clients, Dr. Leslie and Bart Dickinson, sought out her design services for their entire home, an early 2000s build in need of style upgrades throughout—most notably in the kitchen. “All the cabinets were dark, and things were very heavy throughout the house,” Shayla says. Their main objectives were simple: lighten the palette, imbue the home with transitional style, and stay within budget.

Shayla helped the Dickinsons choose new countertops (a fresh white selection from Caesarstone), backsplash tile, lighting, window treatments, and paint while keeping the kitchen’s existing layout, cabinetry, appliances, and flooring in place. “Instead of redoing the entire kitchen and replacing the cabinets and appliances, we put our money into furnishings,” the designer says. Leslie was drawn to the classic palette of blue and white, so Shayla employed that here, with a twist; while the barstools and countertops

are white, the cabinetry was painted a warm taupe, a hue that carries to the backsplash and window treatments as well. “There's a lot of pattern but it's all tone-on-tone, so it marries well,” she says. A punchy orange fabric for chairs in the breakfast nook provides a fun contrast to the blue island, which Shayla says brings a casual air to the space.

Over the island, outdated light fixtures with chain covers were traded for a clean-lined pair. “I liked those because they have a bit of acrylic mixed with the brass, so it brings that transitional feel Leslie wanted,” Shayla adds. Their shape mimics the lantern-style chandelier over the nearby breakfast table without feeling too matchy. The overall effect is one that’s “like night and day” from before, which Shayla hopes will inspire those considering their own renovations. “Understanding that you can work with what you have—as long as you’re creative and think outside the box—can save you a lot of money,” she says. “By keeping the appliances and painting the cabinets, we saved thousands of dollars but still achieved the feel we were looking for.”

1 FRAME THE SPACE

In a room with lots of hard surfaces, like a kitchen, window treatments help take the edge off. Here, Shayla used a trellis-inspired fabric (“Latticely” by Kravet) in both a Roman shade over the sink and as drapery panels in the nearby breakfast nook.

2 UP THE WALL

The backsplash tile (“Masquerade” by Emser) has an old world shape and finish, while its application up the wall makes it feel fresh. “People sometimes forget how dramatic it is to go all the way above the cabinets to the crown,” Shayla says. “It draws your eye to the ceiling.”

3

PRACTICAL & PRETTY

To ensure easy cleaning after mealtimes, Shayla used an indoor/outdoor fabric in a fun coral pattern for the four chairs around the breakfast table. “The chairs have a nice silver champagne metallic finish to them, which also softens the space,” she says.

4

ELEGANT INFLUENCE

Over the table, a pagodainspired light fixture makes a statement without taking up too much visual space, thanks to its open sides. The piece also plays into the bamboo motif on the window treatments and brass lighting over the kitchen island.

—Shayla Copas, designer

“Understanding that you can work with what you have—as long as you’re creative and think outside the box—can save you a lot of money.”

GATHER ROUND

A bay window creates a cozy spot for a breakfast table complete with an upholstered bench and four dining chairs. “They have children, and kids love to have a bench to slide onto,” Shayla says. She had all fabrics (both upholstery and window coverings) treated to guard against stains as well as UV rays. The ginger jar is a piece from Shayla’s own product line designed for Chelsea House.

There’s a sense of warmth to Vase & Vine, the Clarksville shop owned by florist Gina Taverner. That’s because the cottage housing this unique business is equal parts Gina’s floral studio and her home. “It’s nice because I can come in here and start supper if we’re slow, or I make casseroles and soups for lunch for everyone every once in a while,” she says. “My employees feel at home here, too.”

Gina bought the business, then called Clarksville Florist, in 2005. Thirteen years later, she rebranded to Vase & Vine and focused the shop's offerings more toward wedding design. The small team takes on weddings from Little Rock to Northwest Arkansas and everywhere in between, making their location in the River Valley a convenient midway point.

But in addition to the more intricately designed bouquets and installations of their wedding clients, Gina loves the look of grouping a single type of flower in interesting vases around the house. “For the home, I think it gives a uniform statement that looks really upscale and expensive, but can be from your local grocery store or florist,” she says. “You just get a bunch, usually 10-12 stems, of one type and drop it in your vase. And depending on the vessel you use, it can really change the look.”

Read on for Gina's advice on making effortless statements for everyday enjoyment using different types of vases, blooms, and branches—the perfect primer for any floral-arranging beginner.

Factions of Flowers

LINE FLOWERS

Any flower with smaller blossoms growing along the stem in a linear fashion is a line flower. These often provide the broad outline or shape of a mixed arrangement. Snapdragons, delphinium, larkspur, and bells of Ireland are all line flowers.

FOCAL FLOWERS

Also referred to as form flowers, focal flowers are those with distinct, attractive shapes that provide visual weight in a mixed arrangement. Roses, lilies, peonies, dahlias, protea, and even tulips are considered focal flowers.

FILLER FLOWERS

Don’t be fooled by the name—filler flowers are anything but forgettable. Consisting of clusters of small flowers, these often function like greenery as an accent, but can also be striking on their own. Popular examples include baby’s breath, chamomile, Queen Anne’s lace, thistle, and waxflower.

Summer Johnson (left) and Gina Taverner in Gina's kitchen at Vase & Vine.

Make It Modern

Fill dark ceramic and stoneware vases with a bunch or two of a single type of flower for a contemporary take on floral arranging. Here, Gina used four of her focal and filler flower favorites across clay vessels. While their shapes and sizes vary, each has a narrow mouth, which has the dual benefit of supporting stems and allowing you to make a big impact with fewer of them.

Can't find the perfect vase? Don't be afraid to DIY! Two of these vases are ones Gina thrifted then gave a coat of black paint (mixing in mud for texture) to lend them the earthy appeal she wanted.

A bunch of astrantia creates a round shape that mimics its container. “We use this a lot in bridal bouquets for texture, but I love using it like this too,” Gina says, noting this particular plant has a long vase life. Astrantia often comes in white, blush pink, and a moody purple. “Caspia, waxflower, or a greenery like dusty miller would look pretty here, too.”

Verdant hydrangeas, typically thought of as a more traditional bloom, take on a modern feel in a dark handled vase. “The limelight and oakleaf varieties dry really well, so you can keep them preserved,” Gina says. “You can’t go wrong with hydrangeas; they’re the easiest to design.”

Ranunculus is a small flower that packs a powerful visual punch. “The smaller the mouth of the vase, the better for these,” she says, noting the stems “tend to droop.” For this flower, be sure not to overwater. “They don’t like a whole lot of moisture because it makes their stems mushy. Probably just an inch or two of water is enough.”

Filler flowers like genestra seem to blur the line between floral and greenery, creating an organic, spriglike shape. “Waxflower or baby’s breath would work well here too. We just criss-cross the stems, first one way then the other, to help create this shape,” Gina says.

Reach for Roses

While Gina’s personal style currently leans more organic modern, she’s always on the lookout for vintage vases. Here, ‘White Majolica’ spray roses , pink ‘Quicksand’ roses , and lavender ‘Amnesia’ roses are timeless in a collection of glazed and milk glass containers. Roses might have a reputation for more formal or romantic affairs, but Gina encourages people to use them to elevate an everyday look around the house.

“They’re very versatile,” she says.

Hold It Together

Like ranunculus, anemone is a smaller focal flower that makes a statement as a bunch, especially with the airy composition they create in this wide, textured clay pot. Without the tighter mouth of a vase to contain the stems, Gina used a ball of curly willow in the base to provide support.

“We use curly willow and chicken wire because it’s more sustainable than flower foam, but it’s also good for someone who is learning,” Gina says. “You can take your stems in and out and move them easier than you can when you’re creating holes in foam.” In clear vases, the curly willow creates added appeal below the water line.

Pro tip: Gina recommends using a lazy Susan while arranging for easy access to all sides of your vase.

Branch Out

Turn to your own backyard when bringing the outdoors in. For this dramatic display, Gina used three branches of a saucer magnolia accented with greenery from an eleagnus bush; she recommends clipping from a Southern magnolia, redbud, forsythia, or any other blooming tree for a similar look. “I would love this on a big, long dining room table or even sitting right on your fireplace,” she says. To create the look, make sure your vessel is heavy enough to support the weight of the branches.

Next-Level Looks

While Gina prefers the single-flower look for decorating in her own home, clients of Vase & Vine often desire more intricately designed arrangements for their weddings and loved ones. Here, Gina and Summer each designed an arrangement in a low compote to show their two go-to styles: organic and modern.

ORGANIC ELEGANCE

Vase and Vine’s organic arrangements have the look of a mixed bouquet possibly pulled straight from the garden, featuring a variety of colorful flowers with greenery mixed in. This one incorporates delphinium, ‘David Austin’ roses, ranunculus, anemones, snapdragons, narcissus, genestra, stock, and veronica as well as olive branches.

MODERN STYLE

While their modern style has a similar shape, it incorporates many more blooms in a monochromatic scale of colors, such as the scabiosa, snapdragons, tulips, roses, ranunculus, genestra, and burgundy amaranthus seen here.

Discover Fort Smith

Local museums prove essential in preserving and sharing the region’s rich history and culture

WRITER STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON PHOTOGRAPHER BAILEY DOUGAN

A Ferris wheel from the 1935 World’s Fair is on display at the Park at West End in downtown Fort Smith. The park is open seasonally from late April through October.

Fort Smith is a community equally concerned with the past, present, and future of its city. Take for example Fort Smith Museum of History, whose mission involves sharing two centuries worth of information about the region. Founded in 1910, the museum is now housed in the Atkinson-Williams Hardware Warehouse building, a structure only slightly older than the institution itself. “We joke and call the building our biggest artifact, but it really is,” says executive director Caroline Speir. A Fort Smith native, Caroline has memories of enjoying and learning from the very museum where she’s worked for the past 15 years. She also has family ties to the role, with an aunt who once served as the museum’s director and a mother who was a Fort Smith history aficionado in her own right.

Aside from the building itself, The Fort Smith Museum of History houses a permanent collection meant to engage and enrich the community. Rotating temporary exhibits change at least twice a year and are based on a “broad scope of themes and ideas,” Caroline says. “It’s people, places, events, businesses, culture—you name it—over this 200-year period.”

Just about a mile down the road is another local institution telling Fort Smith’s story. The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum, known to locals simply as RAM, is housed in a midcentury bank building the museum was gifted almost 15 years ago to serve as its new home. After a capital campaign and extensive renovations, the new and improved facility opened in 2013. “At that time, we were able to enlarge our mission from an art center and gallery to an art museum with a building that meets national standards,” says development director Julie Moncrief. Her own experience with the museum started decades ago when she enrolled her daughters in its summer camps and art lessons. “It’s been an exciting 10 years as we’ve continued the tradition of art classes for all ages, increased our offerings, begun holding rotating art exhibitions, and kept building our permanent collection,” she says.

One noteworthy acquisition came in 2021 when RAM was gifted local painter John Bell, Jr.’s remaining collection by his family. “In Fort Smith, there are not many people who don’t know about John Bell,” Julie says. The artist often painted historic scenes around the city, bringing to life well-known locales as they were at the turn of the 19th century. Caroline also has an interest in the painter, whose work is included in her mother’s personal collection of city history. “He shows Fort Smith from a really interesting perspective, especially in the history field,” she says. “Having grown up in the era when Garrison Avenue was where life was, my mom had very fond

—Julie Moncrief, Fort Smith Regional Art Museum

“Museums educate people in a fun way and take them places.”

Image courtesy of Fort Smith Regional Museum of Art

The Standard Market Cafe offers a casual atmosphere as well as high-quality grocery goods.

“The Hayride” by John Bell, Jr., depicts a turn-of-the-century scene from the bridge over the Arkansas River down Garrison Avenue.

memories of that area and downtown. Looking at his paintings is like looking back at memories I’ve heard but don’t actually have myself.” With the foundation of the John Bell, Jr., Legacy Project, RAM has a mission to protect, preserve, and share about the life and work of this local treasure.

This year, RAM celebrates its 75th anniversary with a gala, “Evening in Paris,” on April 29. About a year ago, the staff began sifting through the museum’s archives for interesting memorabilia to include in a retrospective exhibit called “Art Center to Museum: The Last 75 Years.” “We were going through file cabinets full of listings of board members, books of newspaper clippings, meeting minutes, and photos,” Julie says. “I developed a huge appreciation and reverence for all the community has done over the years to make RAM possible.”

Caroline agrees that community is the backbone that makes her work with Fort Smith Museum of History possible. “One comment I hear so much—and this is not just the museum, but Fort Smith as a whole—is how much history is here and how well it’s given back to the people,” she says. “That’s a great compliment. All cities have histories. It just depends on the people to work to preserve it, but also to learn it and share it. Fort Smith as a whole does a really great job of that.” Read on for more of our favorite ways to discover Fort Smith.

SHOP

Fort Smith is home to its fair share of antique malls, and one of our recent favorites is GRAND ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES (479.434.5045) for its wonderful array of antique furniture, dishes, art, and other vintage oddities. LUX HAUS (luxhausinteriors. com) is a recent addition to historic Garrison Avenue and offers a current selection of home furnishings, accessories, and gifts.

DINE

Head to THE STANDARD (thestandardfs.com) near Chaffee Crossing for breakfast and lunch options like pastries, flatbreads, smoothies, and grab-and-go sandwiches. BLACK BISON COFFEE COMPANY (blackbisoncoffee.com) is part coffee shop, part gift store housed in a 110-year-old barn. Grab a cup of joe while browsing the art, candles, dishes, and more.

VISIT

FORT SMITH MUSEUM OF HISTORY (fortsmithmuseum.org) is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. In May, an exhibit celebrating the 90th anniversary of the Old Fort Days Rodeo will open in the Boyd Gallery. A collection of ceramics designed by famous cubist Pablo Picasso is on display at FORT SMITH

MUSEUM REGIONAL ART MUSEUM (fsram.org) through April 23. Museum hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday.

A colorful mural by Katelynn Noel Knick graces a wall at Fort Smith Regional Art Museum.

A vignette at Lux Haus in downtown Fort Smith.

SUMMER GUIDE PLANNING

Whether you crave outdoor adventures, culture in the Capital City, or opportunities to explore a neighboring state, it’s never too early to start mapping those summer vacations

Get Outdoors

M ountains, rivers, lakes, and parks—no matter your landscape of choice, you’ll find a place to spend long summer days in The Natural State

Take a trip to Arkansas’s largest lake, Lake Ouachita, with a stay at Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa (mountainharborresort.com). Founded and family-owned since 1955, Mountain Harbor has served as the backdrop for generations of gatherings. For a parents retreat, make a reservation at The Lodge Restaurant and book a relaxing couples massage at the resort’s Turtle Cove Spa. Gaston’s White River Resort (gastons.com) in Lakeview is a fisherman’s favorite for location, convenience, and amenities on the White River. Here you’ll find a range of accommodations from smaller cabins to those fit for a family reunion. New to the sport? Gaston’s one-day, one-on-two fly-fishing school is perfect for aspiring anglers.

If you’ve been itching to try your hand at a bow and arrow, The Quiver Archery Range (thequiverarchery.com) in Bentonville’s Osage Park is a must-visit. A program of the Peel Compton Foundation, this range offers 20 archery lanes along with certified instructors available to work with all experience levels (ages 8 and up). Also of interest to outdoorsmen is the foundation’s Coler Mountain Bike Preserve (peelcompton.org/spaces/ visit-coler), a system of 17-plus miles of mountain biking trails near downtown Bentonville.

Follow Your Art

The much-anticipated grand opening of the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts (arkmfa.org) in Little Rock is finally only a few weeks away, creating a destination for those interested in the visual arts and so much more. The permanent collection, several temporary exhibits, and installations—including the specially commissioned “Spring Song” by Natasha Bowdoin—will be on view when the museum opens its doors April 22. Be on the lookout for additional programming at the museum, including concerts, workshops, and collaborations with their Partner Companies-in-Residence, Ballet Arkansas and the Arkansas Cinema Society.

Take a Road Trip

A little stream of water known as the Mississippi River is all that separates us from our neighbors to the east— and there’s so much to see and do in the Magnolia State! In Greenwood, book a class at the Viking Cooking School (thealluvian.com) and learn how to cook like the pros, then experience a calming treatment at the Alluvian Spa . If you have tots in tow, the Mississippi Children’s Museum (mschildrensmuseum.org) in Jackson and Mississippi Aquarium (msaquarium.org) in Gulfport offer hands-on learning opportunities that are fun for all ages. And for a history fix, visit Natchez (visitnatchez.org), the oldest city on the Mississippi and one ripe with opportunities to learn about the region throughout various contexts. Find more ideas at visitmississippi.org.

GET THE GEAR

Sherwood’s Fort Thompson Sporting Goods (ftthompson.com) is your go-to for all things outdoor and camping. Plan to spend your summer days relaxing in your own backyard? Head to Congo Fireplace & Patio (congofp.com) in Benton to outfit your space with a grill or firepit, ensuring this season is the best one yet.

A cabin in the trees at Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa.

Images courtesy of Arkansas Parks & Tourism and Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

"Dos Mujeres (Two Women)" by Diego Rivera, part of the AMFA permanent collection.

CELEBRATING 68 YEARS

Ready to explore the natural beauty of Arkansas? No matter the season, find your sanctuary at Mountain Harbor.

Spring into style with jewelry from boutiques around the state

Michael M gold pavé “Singleton” paperclip necklace, $1,890. Jones & Son, Little Rock JONESANDSON.COM

Lizzie Fortunato “Heroine” earrings, $240. Brika, Bentonville BRIKABENTONVILLE.COM

Gorjana “Lou Link” bracelet, $80. Indigo, Little Rock SHOPINDIGO.COM

Gold carabiner hinge earrings, $1,400. Romance Diamond Co. Jewelers, Fayetteville and Rogers ROMANCEDIAMOND.COM

White gold diamond bar necklace, $990. Sissy's Log Cabin SISSYSLOGCABIN.COM

Living Well is Our Specialty.

Your dream home is measured in more than square feet. It’s in the personality of each neighborhood. A commute as beautiful as it is convenient. Luxurious amenities – indoors and out. It’s in Chenal, where some of the best restaurants, businesses and venues are nestled among the state’s most scenic views. And our homes? They’re dreamy, too. See what’s available to build or buy.

PotlatchDeltic is an expert at selling quality real estate. Having established some of the most sought-after developments in Central Arkansas, including Chenal Valley in Little Rock and Red Oak Ridge in Hot Springs, the company also offers a wide variety of recreational properties for sale around the state.

On a lunch outing to Charlotte’s in Keo, homeowner Barbara Denniston found this concrete bunny at nearby Old Gin Antiques.

GRILL & CHILL

Barbara envisioned a covered area for her grill so she would be able to use it even on rainy days. She opted for a structure that is the same size as the pool to embrace the symmetrical design of the backyard. Having always been drawn to wicker furniture, she outfitted the seating area with a white Serena & Lily set. Nearby, a standalone unit holding a YETI ice chest creates an instant bar area.

AS WITH MOST HOME PROJECTS, BARBARA DENNISTON'S BACKYARD WASN’T PERFECT

FROM THE START;

rather, it came together little by little as modifications were made along the way. “I wanted it to be a peaceful, laid-back spot that was low maintenance,” she says of her end goal.

In 2019, Barbara worked with designer Cheryl Hannink on the interiors of her custom-built home, creating a relaxed yet refined style (featured in the November 2021 issue of At Home in Arkansas) that she wanted to convey to the outdoor area as well. “Cheryl is my go-to adviser on everything and also my best friend,” she says with a laugh. “She is so talented.” Knowing her friend’s style and the way she entertains, Cheryl provided valuable insight as the backyard fell into place.

The starting point was the pool. Barbara had one at her previous residence and wanted to duplicate the same amenities here but on a smaller scale. “I decided on its size, and everything else evolved from there,” she says. She prioritized symmetry, aligning the 4-foot-deep pool with the entrance to the home’s sunroom and, later, situating a grill pavilion with a lounge area following the same proportional design.

Durable granite countertops surround the grill to create a space for prepping and serving meals.

A round table with seating for four is situated near the back entrance of the home, making it an ideal spot for a poolside brunch or lunch.

Initially, the pavilion entrance and pool were surrounded by a pathway of pavers separated by river rock, while a grass patch at one side served as a play area for Barbara’s dogs. However, after settling in, she realized the setup wasn’t ideal. “When it rained, water came down from the retaining wall and the yard became a soggy mess,” she recalls. During the same time period, her young granddaughter became enchanted with the river rocks, prompting Barbara to have safety concerns and begin researching replacements. The saltwater pool prevented her from using real grass in between the pavers so she went with an option outside the box—turf. “I loved it, and a year later I had them come back and do the entire yard in the same material,” she says. “It’s great because the dogs don’t bring in dirt, and it stays pretty all the time.”

SWIM & SUN

The pool by R & R Pools and Service anchored the backyard as it evolved. A tanning ledge with bubblers is a prime play spot for Barbara’s younger grandchildren, while two mobile loungers can be moved into the scene during adult swims. A patterned tile lines the pool’s interior. “I wanted something different since you see it all the time,” she says. The blue diamonds seen in its pattern are repeated on the tanning ledge to signal a drop-off.

During Barbara's second winter in the house, an ice and snow storm killed the majority of the landscaping in the backyard. “I don’t know anything about plants, so I called Scott Lyons, and he helped me pick all of this,” she says, pointing to low-maintenance evergreen selections that surround the perimeter of the retaining wall. “Scott was instrumental in getting the right plants in place and helping the space take shape,” Cheryl says.

Today, the verdant backyard is home to frequent pool parties, cookouts, and bocce ball tournaments. “This is not an overly formal space,” Cheryl says. “It’s very family friendly— and that is reflective of Barbara. She is so close to her children and grandchildren, and it was important to her that the spaces all be safe, fun, and usable for everyone.” AH

PUTT & PLAY

After deciding to carry the turf throughout the backyard, Barbara had the idea to make the space more than just a lawn. Inspired by games at a friend’s home in Florida, she worked with Arkansas Luxury Lawns to create a court for bocce ball along with two golf holes for putting practice. As her grandchildren grow, she looks forward to badminton tournaments in the open space.

Design Resources

INTERIOR DESIGN Cheryl Hannink, Porch View Homes LANDSCAPE DESIGN Scott Lyons Landscaping APPLIANCES Metro Appliances & More POOL AND SPA R&R Pools and Service TURF Arkansas Luxury Lawns

Containers of seasonal blooms, like the snapdragons and vincas shown here, are refreshed throughout the year.

A rain chain featuring a fish motif makes a splash near the entrance to the home s interior.

In Grandmother’s Garden

In Fayetteville, Daniel Keeley creates a lush, intimate retreat designed with the homeowner’s grandchildren in mind

When this Fayetteville homeowner moved to have more room for her family and young grandchildren, she called on landscape designer Daniel Keeley to bring his talents to her new residence. The goal was to feature dogwood trees, hydrangeas, and plenty of seasonal interest while keeping her grandchildren at the heart of the design. “She grew up in the country in Arkansas, and she definitely appreciates a lush landscape,” Daniel says. “She was really trying to create a beautiful place largely for her grandchildren, where they can go out and play, and there’s a sense of exploration.”

To make the most of the backyard, the designer and his client weighed their options between building a pool or adding a water feature. She chose the latter, and Daniel designed a fountain to complement the native stone used in the patio and covered seating area. “Our main goal was trying to make it look like it had always been there,” he says.

The water feature’s design was also influenced by existing stairs that draw the eye from the lower patio to the lawn beyond. “By centering the fountain on the stairs, it looks like it was all designed at the same

time,” he says. “It’s essentially centered on a big wall of windows in the family room, so it’s very visible from inside the home.”

Another goal for the project was to create a sense of outdoor “rooms,” or distinct spaces within the garden. In this way, the fountain acts as a foyer from the patio to the lawn, which includes two benches facing each other surrounded by bountiful hydrangea blooms. “We were trying to maximize the size of the lawn as much as possible so that the kids would have room to play even though it’s a small space,” Daniel says. “We wanted it to feel like more than just a dead end. By placing the benches there, it becomes a destination to go sit and enjoy the garden.”

To this same end, Daniel and his team layered greenery at different levels to create more visual interest. By starting low with small boxwood hedges, then adding height with the hydrangea trees, they were able to make “a sense of enclosure and give intimacy to the lawn area,” he adds. The resulting garden is warm and welcoming, with plenty of space for a child’s imagination to run wild. “We love working with such wonderful clients who trust us and give us the leeway to create these spaces,” Daniel says. AH

WRITER REBEKAH HALL SCOTT PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

TIMELESS TRANSITION

Daniel and his team worked to seamlessly integrate the water feature’s design into the garden’s existing layout, which features steps leading from the lower patio to the lawn. Acting as a transition between the two areas, the fountain “helps divide the rest of the space,” Daniel says.

A "ROOM" WITH A VIEW

To create definition within the small lawn, Daniel placed wooden benches facing each other and surrounded them with bountiful hydrangeas. The area is now an ideal place to be present among busy children.

COZY COMFORT

Native stone provides a sturdy, earthy backdrop for outdoor living, and a built-in fireplace allows for more time spent on the covered patio throughout the year. “It definitely extends the season,” Daniel says. A wicker chair and ottoman featuring preppy windowpane plaid cushions offer a comfortable place to curl up by the fire on cooler evenings.

SOUTHERN STAPLES

Daniel says he wanted the client to be “comfortable and at home” on the patio, outfitting the space with high quality wicker chairs and a concrete pedestal table (opposite). He credits Little Rock interior designer Tom Chandler, both a friend and mentor, with the technique of using a pedestal table to create a cleaner sightline among chair legs. “You want to combine leggy with non-leggy,” Daniel says. “It’s very powerful. That’s one of Tom’s hard and fast rules, and it works.”

“Shape, form, and texture are very important everywhere in the garden.”

—Daniel Keeley, designer

The covered patio provides additional seating within earshot of the lawn where the children like to play.

Stems cut fresh from the nearby hydrangea bushes make for effortless arrangements.

CONTINUING THE COLOR STORY

Daniel and his team carried the home’s interior color palette of creams, blues, and browns to the large covered sitting area, which connects to the primary bedroom. “We are always trying to establish an indoor-outdoor connection, so a very easy and common way for us to do that is to pull some of those colors outside,” Daniel says. Mixing materials—upholstery, wicker, and stone—creates a layered effect that is cohesive, yet casual.

RHYTHM o� �lue�

A blue-and-white color palette fills a pool house in Conway with classic style

Opening the glass-paned garage doors creates a lively indoor-outdoor space that includes distinct zones for lounging, dining, and conversation on the poolside patio. Both the interior and exterior furnishings are covered in easy-to-clean performance fabrics, ensuring a worry-free environment that perfectly suits the setting. “Jill did a wonderful job incorporating durable fabrics, so we feel comfortable sitting anywhere,” the homeowner says.

WRITER TATE GUNNERSON PHOTOGRAPHER RETT PEEK STYLIST STEPHANIE MAXWELL NEWTON

SUNNY OUTLOOK

PERFECT BALANCE

A symmetrical layout fosters a sense of serenity in the living area, where pillows covered in patterned fabrics from Jane Churchill and Ballard Designs coordinate with a durable yet stylish indoor/ outdoor rug, a pair of matching sofas, and striped cushions on the spool chairs. White oak sideboards flanking the painted brick fireplace relate visually to the open shelving in the kitchen.

For interior designer Jill Lawrence, designing a pool house offers a chance to let loose and create a milieu that’s more relaxed and even a bit whimsical. Indeed, that was the environment her clients, a couple with three children, envisioned when they recruited her to select finishes and furnishings for their new backyard hangout.

Designed by H+N Architects, the pool house’s glass-paned garage doors drench the atrium-like interior with natural daylight. The open concept allows the clients’ gatherings to spill outside, where the designer incorporated woven furnishings around the pool. “It’s a little more playful than the main house and has a staycation feel,” Jill says of the aesthetic.

A palette of blue and white flows through the pool house, where shiplap walls and wood tones establish a light and airy backdrop. “Blue and white is a timeless combination that’s cheerful and uplifting,” the homeowner says. “I wanted something traditional and classic that would stand the test of time.” In the main living area, a blue indoor/outdoor rug anchors a seating area in front of the painted brick fireplace. “There’s a rhythm of blues,” Jill says, pointing to the variation of hues throughout the furniture and accessories. “Adding

those warm periwinkle tones and lighter icy blues against darker hues like navy gives you a whole different dimension and freshens a super classic look.”

Texture plays a key role in Jill’s design, as does practicality. For example, the anti-slip porcelain tile flooring is an attractive yet practical choice for a space prone to pool parties. In the kitchen area, wicker barstools add warmth and interest while coordinating with the outdoor furniture. A raffia cocktail table adds another layer of dimension to the living room while connecting visually with the white oak consoles flanking the fireplace. “There are common threads woven throughout the room that relate to each other, and that makes the room feel peaceful,” the designer says.

While the multi-month collaboration was seamless, pandemic-related supply chain issues meant long waits for some furniture pieces. That didn’t stop the owners from setting up makeshift tables and inviting about 40 people over for Thanksgiving while the pool house was still nearly empty—the first of many such soirées they have hosted since then. “We’ve enjoyed it so much, and it’s been great for the kids to have fun with their friends,” the homeowner says. “It feels like a happy place.” AH

“White Dove” Benjamin Moore

ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS

Woven barstools with upholstered seats add warmth and texture to the open kitchen, which features custom cabinetry, “Absolute Black” leathered granite countertops, and a ceramic subway tile backsplash with a beveled edge that “adds interest without feeling too trendy,” Jill explains.

“I wanted something traditional and classic that would stand the test of time.” —homeowner

A pair of framed Audubon prints add to the coastal aesthetic established by the shiplap walls and nautical color palette.

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TRENDSETTERS

Take your outdoor area to the next level with the help of local pool and landscape professionals

Photo by Rett Peek

Pool by Brooks Pools. Landscaping by The Good Earth Garden Center.

Seaside Pools & Spas

Founded in 1967 and voted “best” by multiple outlets in the past decade, Seaside Pools & Spas is a trusted destination for design, service, and all things pool- and spa-related. Their team has constructed over 5,000 pools and can help you design and install a new pool or renovate an existing one. Many customers want their backyard to feel like a destination for fun, and Seaside Pools & Spas specializes in creating an atmosphere perfect for everything from barbecues to pool parties. For new projects, the Seaside team

first meets with clients to hear their wants and needs, whether that includes swim-up bars, benches, tanning shelves, or lighting—all features that will help make the pool a place for lasting memories. Following installation, Seaside Pools & Spas will assist with all necessary maintenance and equipment repairs, ensuring your backyard investment continues to operate at peak performance. In addition, retail stores located in Springdale and Bentonville make it convenient to pick up supplies and accessories.

LITTLE ROCK

Better Lawns & Gardens

Whether you want to update your landscaping or plan for an outdoor living area, fireplace, kitchen, or pool, the team at Better Lawns & Gardens is ready to help. Founded in 2002, owner David Munsey, Jr., and his son David, III (shown above), work alongside a team of professionals equipped with the knowledge and expertise to help achieve your dreams. “We work with our clients all the way from establishing a vision to design and execution of the project, and then we have the ability to follow up with a comprehensive property maintenance package if they want continued care,” David, III, says.

“We understand you are trusting us with your money to create a dream space that is a reflection of your style—and we don’t take that lightly,” he adds. He also notes the team works hard to ensure there is good communication throughout a project and to provide you with a beautiful, built-to-last project you’ll enjoy for years to come.

KNOWN FOR: Better Lawns & Gardens brings a genuine passion for enjoying the great outdoors to clients all over the state

The Good Earth Garden Center

The Good Earth Garden Center has been bringing outdoor-living dreams to life since 1974. “Landscapes are natural extensions of our homes, and creating outdoor spaces that enhance the lives of each client’s family has been our honor for almost 50 years,” says landscape services coordinator Zak Grothe. Their team of experienced landscape architects and designers listen to each client’s dreams and carefully assesses the site to visualize all the possibilities. Then, knowledgeable

project managers oversee the build process from beginning to end, ensuring their innovative designs are implemented thoughtfully. Their expertise in both the design and build aspects of landscaping results in outdoor spaces that flow from the home into the natural surroundings with graceful intent. When fitting, they enjoy incorporating indigenous stone to transform topography challenges into artful features. “We look forward to partnering with you!” Zak says.

DK Design

For more than 25 years, Daniel Keeley and DK Design have been creating exquisite outdoor spaces for both residential and commercial clients throughout The Natural State and across the country. In an effort to blur the lines between indoors and out, DK Design merges functionality and beauty by designing exterior spaces that match their interior counterparts in terms of quality, comfort, and style.

As their motto “Live Outside the Box” suggests, the team not only encourages clients to enjoy living in

479.443.9002 dkdesignoutdoor.com @dkdesignoutdoor

the spaces outside their homes and offices, but also to make those spaces personal, unique, and extraordinary. Overall, DK Design seeks to offer clients an improved lifestyle. “An outdoor living space is not just a collection of furniture; it is an intimate location for reading the paper, dining with family, or enjoying an evening cocktail,” Daniel says. “Likewise, a DK Design fine garden is not simply a landscaped yard, but rather a unique destination, the reason for a relaxing stroll, or the venue for an al fresco party.”

LITTLE ROCK

NORTHWEST ARKANSAS

4 Seasons of Fun

Winter, spring, summer, fall—any season of the year, these outdoor living spaces have it all

Winter

1 Chairs gathered around a stone fireplace invite long conversations on this comfortable back porch designed by Katie Grace Designs and built by WillMark Homes.

Spring

2 Spring is the time to move living and dining to the outdoors. Seasonal color and evergreens lead the way around the house to a garden escape designed by Better Lawns & Gardens.

Summer

3 This pool and spa with lush surroundings designed by DK Design is the place to be when summer temps begin to soar.

Fall

4 A swing bed by Nate & Lane along with cozy furnishings and seasonal décor from The Velvet Boxwood make this Sheridan front porch a perfect place to enjoy the changing season.

Photos by Rett Peek

Photo by Rett Peek

WE ARE LOOKING FOR THE

BEST HOME PROS

Nominate your favorites for our 2023 Best Home Pros section and your picks could appear in our June issue! Categories include builders, kitchen & bath showrooms, lighting stores, and more design resources.

SCAN HERE

to visit athomearkansas.com/ best-home-pros

Nominations open through March 14

Chris H. Olsen’s name is synonymous with two of central Arkansas’s most beloved nurseries, Botanica Gardens and Plantopia Home & Garden Center, and a historic home venue, The Edgemont House. But he is probably best known as the lead designer behind Botanica Gardens Landscape.

Born in Connecticut and raised in San Diego, Chris has called Arkansas home for 30 years. He is inspired by the state’s natural colors and landscapes, and his experience and eclectic personality show through every project. Botanica Gardens Landscape strives to lead the market with inspired outdoor living spaces and gardens. “It’s all about cool, different designs. Rest assured that when working with me, your design won’t be ‘cookie-cutter,’” Chris says. “My ultimate goal is to make your neighbors jealous—in a good way, of course!” Botanica Gardens Landscape is also known for its complex hardscape designs and installations, from pools, water features, and spas to patios, walkways, outdoor kitchens, and entertainment areas. For the final layer, Chris will oversee installation of the perfect plantings, lighting, irrigation, and drainage for your project, too.

501.614.3000 • @chrisbotanicagardens botanicagardens.com • chrisholsen.com

Wyatt Waters

Outside is where you’ll usually find watercolor artist Wyatt Waters. The Mississippi native has been painting en plein air since the beginning of his career; in fact, it was a chance meeting on the streets of Jackson that led to his first real show, which in turn allowed him to focus full time on his art. His work depicts scenes both everyday and extraordinary, close to home and abroad: A man walks his dog in Tuscany. Two tomatoes form a simple still life on a windowsill. A sunset in the Florida Keys casts a hazy, beautiful glow over the palm trees. Each scene rendered by Wyatt’s careful hand captures a distinct sense of place in a style all his own.

In 2020, Wyatt and his wife, Kristi, undertook a multiyear project exploring the Southeast to produce his ninth book, The Watercolor Road: Painting and Writing Through America’s South. “You know when you go off somewhere and you come back home, things look different? And they feel different? I wanted to do something that gave me some discovery about home,” Wyatt says. The couple packed a 16-foot Casita travel trailer and, starting from their home base in Clinton, Mississippi (where they operate Wyatt Waters Gallery), zigzagged across Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, the Carolinas, and Arkansas, stopping along the way for Wyatt to paint. He describes the endeavor as “a little Jack Kerouac meets Southern culture.”

Kristi developed an itinerary with The Natural State as their primary destination. “There were a lot of beautiful sights in Arkansas that are so un-Mississippi. I mean, we don’t have mountains here. We don’t have that kind of landscape,” Wyatt says, noting that while his wife’s role was to keep them organized, his was to veer off path every once in a while. “She makes sure we don’t get lost, and I make sure to get us lost.” One such wandering path led to McClard’s Bar-B-Q, well known to both locals and frequent visitors of Hot Springs. “Barbecue's not uniquely Southern, but it’s pretty Southern," Wyatt says. “I tell people, there are as many ways to be Southern as there are different kinds of barbecue. Everyone has a little bit of a different flavor, but also a sameness.”

Wyatt’s painting of the iconic Arkansas institution captures its vibrancy—even while closed at the start of the pandemic—as well as his mastery of his favorite medium. “Watercolor challenges you because it doesn’t do what you want it to do,” he says, comparing working with the water-based paints to riding a horse. “It’s a collaboration, a kind of dance. It runs and drips and blobs and falls apart, and sometimes contributes better than my brush to the painting. It’s engaging, and that’s what I love about it.” A selection of Wyatt’s paintings and books, including The Watercolor Road , are available at wyattwaters.com.

“Where There’s Smoke” by Wyatt Waters 15” x 11” watercolor on rough paper

Written by Stephanie Maxwell Newton. Images courtesy of Wyatt Waters