Back to School with AMFA
2026-08-06 16:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago)
Prepare for the academic year ahead with this special opportunity to connect with fellow educators, find inspiration for your classrooms, and plan for the future.
This is your chance to preview upcoming programs and exhibitions at AMFA and explore resources that are available to support your students and curriculum. Start the school year feeling energized, supported, and prepared!

4:00–5:00 pm / Reception in the Atrium with complimentary drinks and art activities
5:00–5:30 pm / Education presentation in the Performing Arts Theater
5:30–7:00 pm / Windgate Art School Open House, featuring information and resource tables alongside multiple studio art activities

While you are here, earn three professional development credit hours by pre-registering online.

Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Art for Two: Pastel Portrait Drawings
2026-08-07 18:00 - 21:00
Explore AMFA’s exhibition A Month of Sundays: Art and the Persistence of Time and create a portrait drawing inspired by the art on view. Using pastels, explore facial features, model positioning, and expressive colors to create a meaningful portrait.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials are included and no skills are required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Present your Art For Two registration receipt at Park Grill to receive a complimentary appetizer, valid for one year from the date of your workshop.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
The Mid-South Cohort, a multi-year, multi-institutional exhibition partnership formed by the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art, in collaboration with the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, the Birmingham Museum of Art, Fisk University Art Gallery, and the Mississippi Museum of Art, is made possible by the Art Bridges Cohort Program. This exhibition was organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

Artwork by David Warren.

Collagraph Printmaking Workshop
2026-08-08 14:00 - 17:00
Create unique artworks on paper through the art of printmaking and collagraph.
Collagraph blends the techniques of collage and drawing with printmaking to make visually interesting images. Learn from a professional artist how to collage a variety of soft materials onto a plate and create a unique print.
This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn and create artwork with a technique that is not offered in most studios. Whether you are starting or refining your artmaking practice, this is a creative space for all levels to explore and learn!

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Dominique Simmons.

Drop-in Expressive Painting and Yoga
2026-08-09 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-08-16 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-08-23 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-08-30 13:00 - 16:00
Discover the connection between body, breath, and expressive painting in this immersive workshop led by Little Rock artist and certified yoga instructor, Lo Patt.
Lo guides participants through a blend of gentle yoga, mindful movement, and intuitive artmaking. You will explore how physical awareness can deepen creativity to make inspired paintings and visual artworks.
No previous yoga or art experience is required, just curiosity and openness to explore how movement and mark-making can inform one another. Please bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothing for movement.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Pastel Drawing Workshop
2026-08-10 13:00 - 16:00
Discover the vibrant and colorful possibilities of drawing with pastels.
In this introductory workshop, students will learn essential techniques, including selecting materials, building layers of color, and creating depth, light, and texture. Through guided exercises, participants will develop an understanding and gain skills working with pastels.
Designed for beginners and those looking to refresh core skills, this hands-on experience offers guided instruction in a supportive studio environment.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Photo by Jason Masters.

Filmland 2026
2026-08-12 - 2026-08-16
The Arkansas Cinema Society and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts are pleased to announce the return of Filmland. Much like previous years, Filmland will showcase captivating independent films and riveting filmmaker conversations that you cannot see anywhere else.
Past Filmland showings include Sing Sing, The Bikeriders, Nomadland, Free Solo, The Eyes of Tammy Faye and more, appearing fresh off of their premieres at festivals like Sundance, Telluride, Toronto and Venice.
Over the last few years, Filmland has been honored to host directors Richard Linklater, David Lowery, Jay Duplass and Michael Shannon; producers Evan Hayes, Kim Reynolds & Brian Kavanaugh-Jones; and actors Colman Domingo, Margot Robbie, Jessica Chastain, and Oscar winner and ACS board member Mary Steenburgen.
Visit the Arkansas Cinema Society website for the latest information.

Wednesday Spins
2026-08-12 17:00 - 20:00, 2026-08-19 17:00 - 20:00
Elevate your midweek mood at Wednesday Spins! Experience a night of art, music, drinks, and socializing over beautiful views of the Museum.
Kick back with craft cocktails, enjoy music mixed by DJ Nico, pop into the Galleries to explore the art on view, and strike a pose in the photo booth with your friends.
AMFA is the place to be every Wednesday night all summer long!
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Drop-in Figure Drawing
2026-08-12 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-08-19 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-08-26 18:00 - 21:00
Immerse yourself in a three-hour drawing session set in an untutored environment at the Windgate Art School. This dynamic experience will feature a variety of timed poses with draped and undraped models, providing an excellent opportunity for first-time students and experienced artists alike to hone their skills.
Students must be 18+ to attend, as the session may use an undraped model. An instructor will moderate the session and be available for critiques and questions upon request.
Students are encouraged to bring their own materials or purchase materials from the AMFA Museum Store. Recommended materials are graphite drawing pencils, charcoals, and a kneaded eraser. Basic drawing materials will also be available.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Photo: Iwan Baan.

Color and Clay Workshop
2026-08-12 18:00 - 21:00
Explore the possibilities of surface design through colored slip decoration on clay.
Learn to use liquid clay, called slip, to add color and create a pattern or design on the surface of a clay object. Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, participants will experiment with techniques such as brushing, layering, and carving to create dynamic surfaces.
Students will develop an understanding of how color, line, and texture interact on clay and how surface choices can enhance form and their finished work.
Pre-made clay tiles will be provided for each workshop participant to practice demonstrated techniques. Experienced ceramic artists are welcome to bring a personally made leather hard clay form to color, decorate, and carve.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Zach Wollert.

Fused Glass Coasters Workshop
2026-08-15 14:00 - 17:00
Design colorful glass coasters that will lighten up any table or counter top!
Learn the basics of glass fusing to arrange shapes and patterns in a creative way. Your completed designs will be transformed in the kiln to achieve a smooth and glossy finish.
This workshop is an excellent workshop for those interested in experiencing the basics of glass fusing.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Donnell Williams.

Abstract Acrylic Painting Workshop
2026-08-20 09:00 - 12:00
Discover the versatility of acrylic painting in this hands-on workshop. Explore both traditional and more expressive techniques while building confidence with color, composition, and brushwork. With guidance, you will experiment with materials and create work that reflects your own style.
This workshop is a great introduction for beginners and a welcoming space for those looking to grow their painting practice.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Elly Bates.

Layered Realities: Drawing Identities Through Charcoal
2026-08-22 10:00 - 14:00
This hands-on drawing workshop introduces students to layered charcoal techniques that blend realism and abstraction. Using erasure, charcoal dust, mark making, and additive/subtractive methods, students will learn to construct expressive portraits that explore presence, memory, and identity through visual language.
This workshop emphasizes experimentation, process, and personal interpretation. Students will leave this workshop with new technical drawing skills in charcoal and a deeper understanding of visual storytelling through portraiture.
This is an intermediate-level workshop. Students must have taken Drawing Foundations or Beginner Figure Drawing at AMFA to register.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Oluwatobi Adewumi.

Relief Printmaking Workshop
2026-08-26 13:00 - 16:00
Learn about the art of relief printmaking in this workshop led by printmaking artist Perrion Hurd.
Explore the techniques of hand-carving blocks to create dynamic prints that highlight the interplay of line, shape, texture, and pattern. Through hands-on instruction, you will learn how to craft your own designs, with a focus on developing personal style and technique.
By the end of the workshop, you will leave with an understanding of the relief printmaking process, a finished print, and a carved block, ready to continue your printmaking journey.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Perrion Hurd.

Wednesday Spins
2026-08-26 17:00 - 20:00
Elevate your midweek mood at Wednesday Spins! Experience a night of art, music, drinks, and socializing over beautiful views of the Museum.
Kick back with craft cocktails, enjoy music mixed by a live DJ, pop into the Galleries to explore the art on view, and strike a pose in the photo booth with your friends.
AMFA is the place to be every Wednesday night all summer long!
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Drypoint Printmaking with Color Workshop
2026-08-26 18:00 - 21:00
Discover the art of drypoint printmaking and learn how to transfer drawings from a copper plate onto paper.
Led by an expert printmaker, explore the techniques and color options of drypoint with drawing on copper plates to create dynamic prints that highlight a variety of results. Through hands-on instruction, you will learn how to craft your own designs, with developing personal style and technique.
By the end of the workshop, you will leave with an understanding of drypoint printmaking, a finished print, and a drypoint copper plate.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Kristin Karr.

Watercolor Botanicals Workshop
2026-08-28 18:00 - 21:00
Use watercolors to create detailed botanical studies and expressive works inspired by the beauty of plants and nature.
You will learn how to mix and build colors to capture the subtle nuances of your botanical subject and explore a range of techniques that allow you to express the essence of plants in your own unique style.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.
Artwork by Emily Wood.

Art For Two: Pottery on the Wheel (SOLD OUT)
2026-09-04 18:00 - 21:00
Explore the fundamental steps of wheel throwing in this fun, hands-on workshop. Guided by an expert ceramic artist, learn essential techniques including centering, pulling, and forming clay, while finishing your own functional, one-of-a-kind ceramic piece.
Your creations will be fired and ready for pick up approximately four weeks after the class.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials are included and no skills are required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Present your Art For Two registration confirmation email at Park Grill to receive a complimentary appetizer, valid for one year from the date of your workshop.

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
The Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2026.

Under A Restless Sky: Art and Music
2026-10-28 18:00 - 19:00
Witness visual art come to life through music during an innovative performance that blends tradition with experimentation.
At this one-night-only event, composer and performer D. Riley Nicholson is set to debut Refugium – a classical music score adapted from an interpretation of weather data that informed Nathalie Miebach’s installation Under A Restless Sky currently on view in the Galleries. Accompanying Nicholson on the piano are musicians from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra playing viola, cello, and upright bass to amplify the experience.
This performance marks the latest edition of Miebach’s Weather Score Project, through which the artist translates collected weather data into musical scores. These translations serve as blueprints for her sculptural installations and inspire musical performances that explore the impact of environmental changes and express the emotions felt by those who experience them.
After the performance, enjoy an open conversation between Miebach and Nicholson as they discuss how they collaborated to transform data into their individual art forms.
The evening concludes with a reception in the Cultural Living Room where all are welcome.

Nathalie Miebach: Under A Restless Sky is supported in part by The Brown Foundation, Inc. of Houston and Bank of America.
This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.
