Fayetteville, Arkansas boasts a thriving and diverse arts community. The visual art scene has grown dramatically over the past several years, but you have to go looking in new places for it! At one point in Fayetteville’s history, all one needed to do to see a gallery was walk the town square, but now a variety of viewing experiences are available all over the city, from south Fayetteville to the Northwest Arkansas Mall. Let's embark on a tour of some of the most prominent exhibition spaces that Fayetteville has to offer!
Community Creative Center
505 W. Spring Street
479-571-2706
Our exploration begins at the Community Creative Center, a haven for artistic expression. This non-profit organization fosters a space for artists of all levels to showcase their work. Here, you might encounter vibrant paintings by local talents alongside captivating student ceramics creations. The Community Creative Center embodies the spirit of inclusivity, making art accessible to a broad audience. This center is a hub for makers in the area as well, offering a variety of creative classes for every level of skill.
Sequoyah Hall Gallery
Sequoyah Hall at Mount Sequoyah
479-443-4531
Moving on, we trek up to Sequoyah Hall Gallery, a beautiful historic space focused on sharing the work of emerging local artists. This space is part of the 27-acre Mount Sequoyah Center campus overlooking downtown Fayetteville. This multifaceted creative platform transcends the typical gallery experience. In addition to unique monthly exhibitions, Creative Spaces NWA also hosts over 60 studio artists on site, which means that often open studios are a part of art openings on the mountain. Visitors to Mount Sequoyah can glimpse into the creative process at Sequoyah Hall and then wander the grounds to find unexpected outdoor art installations.
Fenix Gallery
Millar Lodge at Mount Sequoyah
150 N Skyline Dr.
479-422-5374
Within the serene confines of Mount Sequoyah Center you can also find Fenix Arts Gallery, a champion of regional art. This non-profit artist collective provides a platform for established and emerging artists within the Northwest Arkansas region. The diverse range of mediums showcased at Fenix Arts, from sculptures and ceramics to photography and mixed-media installations, ensures a visually stimulating experience for every visitor. This gallery is run by artists, and their attention to detail and ideas in their exhibitions always provides an impactful experience. They also have a room for small works for sale with a unique variety of locally made pieces.
Joy Pratt Markham Gallery
Inside Walton Arts Center
495 West Dickson Street
479-443-5600
Next, we arrive at the Walton Arts Center's Joy Pratt Markham Gallery. This prestigious gallery, nestled within the architectural marvel of the Walton Arts Center, presents world-class exhibitions. Expect to encounter works by renowned national and international artists, offering a glimpse into cutting-edge contemporary art movements. This gallery also hosts a knockout regional art show each year, Our Art Our Region Our Time, which brings thousands of art lovers to Fayetteville to appreciate regional talents.
Local Color Studio Gallery
275 S Nelson Hackett Blvd.
479-461-8761
Seeking a more intimate gallery experience? Local Color Studio Gallery provides just that. This charming space run by local sculptor Alex Cogbill, brings people into the process. Local Color showcases the works of regional artists, offering a platform for both established and up-and-coming talents. Local Color also provides youth art classes and many other opportunities to engage.
The Art Gallery at the NWA Mall
Northwest Arkansas Mall
4201 N Shiloh Drive
Venturing on uptown, you’ll find The Art Gallery at the NWA Mall. This unique space is run by artist volunteers. The art gallery & gift shop offers a curated platform for more than 30 Washington and Benton County artists. The accessible location makes it a perfect destination for finding original, locally made artwork and art gifts.
Faulkner Museum Gallery
Jim & Joyce Faulkner Performing Arts Center
University of Arkansas
453 N Garland Avenue
479-575-5387
For a more historical perspective, a visit to the Faulkner Performing Arts Center on the University of Arkansas campus is in order. This gallery hosts exhibits featuring pieces from a permanent collection encompassing many artistic periods and cultures and contemporary pieces. Faulkner Museum Gallery fosters an appreciation for the rich tapestry of human creativity throughout history.
UA School of Art
696 W Praxis Ln
479-575-5202
And finally, many have seen the impressive modern structure of the UA School of Art Studio + Design Center rise up on MLK over the past few years, but did you know it's not just for students? You can go see artwork there! The facility is part of the Windgate Art + Design District and houses multiple gallery spaces where you can view the freshest work from undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and visiting artists. In addition to showcasing work, visitors can catch a glimpse of the most innovative processes and facilities in the state and get one of the best coffees in town at their Artsaga’s counter!
By Jessica DeBari
