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Visitors who venture beyond the traditional tourist attractions in Arkansas are sure to stumble upon hidden gem art galleries scattered throughout the state. These galleries are not only home to a variety of artists and styles but also exemplify the blending of contemporary and traditional art that sets them apart. The unique combination of experimental and classic pieces creates an eclectic vibe that appeals to a diverse audience.
Arkansas is an excellent state for Art Lovers. With easy day trips or travel destinations, many towns across the state boast artists’ home studios and art galleries that are easy to explore for a few moments or hours. And don’t think this is a one-time visit. Most change out featured artists and add new collections each week. Who knows, there may be one closer to you than you know.
From the charming folk art of the Ozarks to the cutting-edge modernism of the cities, these hidden art galleries of Arkansas offer a fascinating journey through the state’s diverse artistic landscape.
Unexpected Finds in South Arkansas
- The Gallery at 1894 | Texarkana – 12,000 sq-feet for gallery space in the historic 1894 City Market in the heart of downtown
- Joseph Raymond Fine Art | Texarkana – an abstract fine-art, working artist with open access to his gallery
- Mena Art Gallery | Mena – a gathering of art for all ages in the heart of The Ouachitas
- Rosemary Gossett Adams and Hammons Art Galleries | Arkadelphia – displaying student work, guest artists and traveling art shows at Ouachita Baptist University
Unique Opportunities in Central Arkansas
- M2 Gallery | Little Rock – a home and landing place for artists like family in the largest art gallery in Arkansas
- Gallery26 | Little Rock – located inside a historic icehouse, they share space for cutting-edge and innovative artists
- Cantrell Gallery | Little Rock – featuring art by established and emerging artists in the longest-running art gallery in Little Rock
- Hearne Fine Art | Little Rock – promoting the power of African American art in the quest to generate and sustain generational wealth
- Art Space on Main and ART WORKS | Pine Bluff – Exhibition Hall and event space, hosting works by traveling artists, recently received a best-in-class architectural historic renovation award
- Artists’ Workshop Gallery | Hot Springs – a cooperative gallery owned by 30 artists
- Dryden Pottery | Hot Springs – home studio for more than 70 years for a family of potters using products with locally mined quartz silica
- Riley Art Glass Studio | Hot Springs – a working glass art studio selling glass sculptures across the U.S.
- Justus Fine Art Gallery | Hot Springs – highlight among the monthly downtown Gallery Walk
- Whittington Gallery | Hot Springs – home to the most extensive collection of local artwork, includes a fun art space for children that offers supplies and space for messes
- Stephens Art Gallery | Searcy – a gathering place for people of all ages to enjoy art together at Harding University
Hidden Gems of Northwest Arkansas
- Art Collective Gallery | Rogers – an engaging space and event venue where everything is art
- Statton Gallery | Eureka Springs – a gallery that pays honor to a childhood love and exposure to art in the beauty of the Ozarks
- Fifth Street Studio | Bentonville – art gallery, supplies and class all under one roof where beginners have space to grow
- Art on the Square | Bentonville – award-winning art gallery featuring local Arkansas fine artists, curated by artists Matt Coburn
- Local Color Studio and Art Gallery | Fayetteville – a gallery and working space for local artists with carefully curated exhibits aimed at launching artists
- Art Ventures NWA | Fayetteville – a nonprofit committed to expanding the story of art in Northwest Arkansas with a particular emphasis on K-12 Gallery inclusion in academic programming
- Hidden Talent Fine Art Gallery | Fort Smith – a robust collection of River Valley artists in a historical place that brings restoration
- UA Fort Smith Art Gallery | Fort Smith – experiential design gallery with educational opportunities for emerging artists
- The Gallery on Garrison | Fort Smith – home studio of muralist and artist Melody Smith, who uses her life experiences to inform the emergence of suppression
Art is always available around you; sometimes, you just have to stop and look for it. On any outing in any town in Arkansas, stop and look for art in hidden spots like – churches, hotels, libraries, downtown alleys, murals on Main Street walls, colleges and restaurants. I love to fill my personal spaces with art that tells stories; these always make a great souvenir to remember your travels.
Image used with permission from artist Kent Tomlinson.
Other Ways to Enjoy Art in Arkansas
- Arkansas Destinations for Art Lovers
- Artistic Endeavors Abound in Searcy
- Arkansas Photographers to Follow on Instagram
- Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
- 9 South Arkansas Coffee Shops
- The Quapaw Quarter
- Tomlinson Art and Science Center
- How to add more Art to your Life
- The Art of Wood
- Craft and Sewing Classes in Arkansas
- A celebration of Ozark Arts and Crafts
Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or simply appreciate the beauty of fine art, Arkansas’s galleries offer something for everyone. So, make a summer plan to experience the state’s vibrant art scene firsthand!
Cover image provided by Northwest Arkansas cold wax artist, Kent Tomlinson.
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