Crystal Bridges Museum

Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is an amazing treasure and a must-see in Northwest Arkansas, sparking a new interest in the arts for all ages, set in a striking structure on 120 lush acres. The museum blog itself says it best:

Crystal Bridges’ permanent collection spans five centuries of American masterworks ranging from the Colonial era to the current day. Included within the collection are iconic images such as Asher B. Durand’s Kindred Spirits, Rosie the Riveter by Norman Rockwell, and Andy Warhol’s Dolly Parton, each reflecting a distinct moment in American artistic evolution. In addition to historical works, the Museum’s collection also showcases major works by modern and contemporary American artists, including Roy Lichtenstein, James Turrell, and Georgia O’Keeffe, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the full scope of American art. Crystal Bridges will continue to grow its collection through the efforts of its professional staff as well as through important gifts from private collectors.

New galleries have opened their doors and new fans are finding existing ones. Who would have ever thought that you could actually take an honest-to-goodness art tour through Benton County? After you view the beautiful art at Crystal Bridges and 21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville, hop on over to Rogers for the rest of your tour. Here are a few of the highlights that you shouldn’t miss.

Scott Frame and Art

More local artists are on display at Scott Frame and Art, located just off interstate 49 at the Pleasant Grove exit. Here you will find paintings, photos and giclees on canvas and paper. (Post confession…I had to Google “giclees”, so don’t worry if you didn’t know what that was either. You aren’t alone. Also, the last piece of art I bought was of a monkey wearing a dress and funny hat. I’m pretty much a novice art collector.) Ok, back to business. Northwest Arkansas artists that have been represented in the Scott gallery include Ed Cooley, Sharon Simmons, Tyler Arnold, Matt Miller, Dierdre West and many others.  Most every piece of art in the gallery is for sale, so if you find something you like, you can take right on home. The gallery is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  Scott has also opened a Fayetteville location to further serve their loyal customers.

So are you an art novice like me or have you been collecting for a long time? I’d love to know what your favorites pieces are. Comment below and let me know! Happy art hunting!