Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Drop-in Expressive Painting with Music (CANCELED)
2026-01-25 13:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago)
Create expressive paintings inspired by the energy and emotion of music!
Working with Little Rock artist, Hamid Ebrahimifar, practice improvisational painting that mirrors the spontaneity and flow of sound. Hamid will guide you through techniques that allow music to shape your artistic expression. A live musician will provide an immersive soundtrack that enhances the creative atmosphere.
Participants are encouraged to bring tempera paint, brushes, and a painting surface (mixed media paper, canvas, or board). In addition to your own materials, you will have access to tempera paint and a handmade calligraphy brush to use during the session.

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 Hamid Ebrahimifar.

Art Start (CANCELED)
2026-01-28 10:30 - 11:30
Nurture your early learner’s creativity through art, music, movement, and play! Art Start invites toddlers and preschoolers to explore in a welcoming environment that encourages curiosity, imagination, and growth. Each session features a story, song, and artmaking activity, plus a special letter or instrument of the day to spark hands-on discovery for families and caregivers to enjoy together.
Drop by on this day to experience the story Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons by Eric Litwin, a fun and musical story about keeping a positive attitude when things do not go as planned. Then, create an artwork using buttons influenced by AMFA’s exhibition, Uncommon Threads in Contemporary Art.

Uncommon Threads in Contemporary Art is supported in part by the Alan DuBois Fund for Contemporary Craft.Uncommon Threads in Contemporary Art is supported in part by the Alan DuBois Fund for Contemporary Craft.
This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters

Drop-in Figure Drawing (CANCELED)
2026-01-28 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 the 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.

Drop-in Printmaking (CANCELED)
2026-01-28 18:00 - 21:00
Experiment with printmaking during this three-hour drop-in experience at AMFA’s Windgate Art School. Open to beginner and experienced artists alike, it’s a great way to learn a new art form or work independently on your own projects.
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 a carving block, five-piece cutters and stamp carving tool, and high-quality paper. Basic printmaking 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: Rachel Cobler.

Creative Saturdays
2026-01-31 10:00 - 13:00
Create colorful kaleidoscopes inspired by the connections between art and science with LISA Academy! Using mirror board, paper, and vibrant materials, explore pattern, reflection, and symmetry to design a one-of-a-kind optical creation that celebrates STEAM.
At Creative Saturdays, guests of all ages and abilities are welcome. Just drop in and enjoy a free, family-friendly art-making activity in AMFA’s Windgate Art School – no registration required!
About LISA Academy
Founded in 2004, LISA Academy is a tuition-free, open-enrollment K–12 public charter school network in Arkansas. The school specializes in STEM-C-focused, college-preparatory education that inspires students to innovate, achieve, and thrive. With a strong record of academic excellence, opportunities, and family partnerships, LISA Academy prepares students for both higher education and meaningful careers.

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 in part by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied on all classes through 2026.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Gallery Tour
2026-01-31 10:30 - 11:30, 2026-02-14 10:30 - 11:30
Drop in and discover AMFA with a free docent-led tour through the galleries!
With this fun, engaging, and memorable experience, guests of all ages are invited to explore the art on view while learning how to interpret and appreciate works of art in various media.

Gallery Tours are supported in part by Fleur S. Bresler.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Woodturned Bottlestoppers Workshop (SOLD OUT)
2026-01-31 14:00 - 17:00
This one-session workshop offers an excellent introduction to woodturning, perfect for beginners or those looking to try something new. The instructor will cover fundamental woodturning techniques, including proper tool handling, methods for shaping wood, and essential lathe safety practices.
After a brief demonstration, students will practice these techniques hands-on before creating two unique wine bottle stoppers to take home. With step-by-step guidance from an expert woodturner, participants will gain confidence in using the lathe and exploring their creativity.
No prior experience is necessary, and all materials are provided for this fun and exciting 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.
Artwork by Kim Fifer.

Drop-in Expressive Painting with Music
2026-02-01 13:00 - 16:00, 2026-02-08 13:00 - 16:00

Art Start
2026-02-04 10:30 - 11:30
Nurture your early learner’s creativity through art, music, movement, and play! Art Start invites toddlers and preschoolers to explore in a welcoming environment that encourages curiosity, imagination, and growth. Each session features a story, song, and artmaking activity, plus a special letter or instrument of the day to spark hands-on discovery for families and caregivers to enjoy together.
Drop by on this day to experience What Time Is It, Mr. Crocdodile? by Judy Sierra, a playful story about planning, patience, and daily routines. Then create a paper cuckoo clock artwork inspired by the AMFA exhibition A Month of Sundays: Art and the Persistence of Time.

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. A Month of Sundays: Art and the Persistence of Time was organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

Image courtesy of Jason Masters

Drop-in Figure Drawing
2026-02-04 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-11 18:00 - 21:00

Drop-in Printmaking
2026-02-04 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-11 18:00 - 21:00

Sneak Series: Pillion
2026-02-04 18:30 - 20:30
The Arkansas Cinema Society and Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts are proud to present A24’s Pillion starring Harry Melling and Alexander Skarsgård at a special sneak preview screening before its theatrical release on February 6, 2026.
Critics are already raving: Pillion currently holds a 100% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, calling it an “unconventional romance that soars thanks to its nonjudgmental perspective and knockout performances.”
About the Film
Wallflower Colin (Harry Melling) leads a humdrum existence until he meets the impossibly handsome Ray (Alexander Skarsgård), a mysterious biker he is soon desperately devoted to. As Colin submits to Ray and enters an exciting new world of desire, he must decide the limits of his devotion.
Hilarious, subversive and sexy, Pillion is the acclaimed and surprisingly tender love story from writer-director Harry Lighton, starring Melling and Skarsgård in fearless performances as a mild young man and his leather-clad lover.
Run Time: 1 hour, 47 minutes
Rating: R

This screening is presented in partnership with the Arkansas Cinema Society.
Film still courtesy of A24.

Art for Two: Stacked Rings (SOLD OUT)
2026-02-06 18:00 - 21:00
Create a set of stacking rings by customizing to your size and shape, learning to solder brass wire and complete your golden-toned set.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.

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 Erin House.

Art for Two: Glass Hummingbirds (SOLD OUT)
2026-02-06 18:00 - 21:00
Create a vibrant and colorful glass hummingbird using the technique of flame-working glass over a torch flame.
Under the expert guidance of a skilled glass artist, you will learn the process of sculpting a delicate hummingbird, from shaping the beak and body to crafting the wings. You will work with a variety of colorful glass rods, using the torch to melt and manipulate the material to form the bird’s features.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.

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.

Bead Setting Workshop
2026-02-07 09:00 - 16:00
Learn the precision and artistry of bead setting in this focused jewelry-making workshop. An expert jewelry instructor will guide you through the process of securely setting small stones using traditional bead setting techniques.
Instruction will cover tool selection, surface preparation, layout, drilling, burr work, and using gravers. With hands-on practice and expert guidance, you will develop skills needed to create refined and professional settings, adding sparkle and dimension to your metalwork.
Please bring your lunch for a 12:00–1:00 p.m. break.

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 Lucas Pointon.

Creative Saturdays
2026-02-07 10:00 - 13:00
Design a balancing wire sculpture that combines art, science, and a bit of engineering with LISA Academy! Using wire and found objects, explore balance, movement, and gravity as you construct a playful sculpture that celebrates creativity and curiosity through STEAM.
At Creative Saturdays, guests of all ages and abilities are welcome. Just drop in and enjoy a free, family-friendly art-making activity in AMFA’s Windgate Art School – no registration required!
About LISA Academy
Founded in 2004, LISA Academy is a tuition-free, open-enrollment K–12 public charter school network in Arkansas. It specializes in STEM-C-focused, college-preparatory education that inspires students to innovate, achieve, and thrive. With a strong record of academic excellence, opportunities, and family partnerships, LISA Academy prepare students for both higher education and meaningful careers.

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 in part by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied on all classes through 2026.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Printmaking and Etching Workshop
2026-02-07 10:00 - 16:00
Create unique artworks on paper using the art of printmaking and etching. Learn and practice techniques for drawing on a copper plate, etching the plate, and printing with a press.
This workshop is designed for both beginners and experienced students, offering an introduction to printmaking as well as the opportunity for advanced printmakers to expand their skills. Whether you are starting or refining your practice, this workshop provides a creative space for all levels to explore and learn.
Please bring your lunch for a 12:00–1:00 p.m. break.

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 David Warren.

Spotlight Tour: African American Artists
2026-02-07 10:30 - 11:30
Drop in and discover art on view by African American artists at AMFA with a free docent-led tour through the galleries!
With this fun, engaging, and memorable experience, guests of all ages are invited to explore the art on view while learning how to interpret and appreciate works of art in various media.

Spotlight Tours are supported in part by Fleur S. Bresler.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Architecture and Design Network Lecture Series: David Hill
2026-02-10 17:30 - 19:00
The mission of the Architecture and Design Network (ADN) is to educate the public about architecture, design, and related disciplines and the ways in which their practice shapes communities and affects people’s lives.
In this free lecture entitled “Dawdling and Dallying,” you are invited to hear from David Hill, Founding Principal of HILLWORKS. Hill will discuss select Hillworks projects that emerged from an intentional engagement with time. Through three case studies–focused on seasonal, regenerative, and storied time–he will explore how dawdling, dallying, and careful attention can open up new ways of thinking about architectural process and place.
Before the lecture, enjoy a short reception from 5:30-6:00 p.m. in the Atrium. The lecture begins at 6:00 p.m. in the Governor Winthrop Rockefeller Lecture Hall.
About David Hill
David is a registered architect, registered landscape architect, founder of HILLWORKS, and Professor in the Landscape Architecture Program at Auburn University (not to mention a proud father of three). This rich relationship between education and practice offers a wide spectrum of opportunities for David to advance disciplinary research. Born and raised in a plant nursery in South Georgia, David developed a deep affinity for plants and an early admiration for the rich, working landscape of the south. After 15 years of experience, this fascination with cultural and productive landscapes continues to impact how David unpacks site histories and explores design opportunities.
Prior to founding HILLWORKS, David helped unearth post-industrial landscapes as an Associate, and later a Principal, of D.I.R.T studio where he managed projects such as Urban Outfitters Headquarters at the Philadelphia Navy Yard, Hardberger Park in San Antonio Texas, the Historic Pabst Brewery in Milwaukee Wisconsin, and the Holy Cross Project in New Orleans Louisiana. David’s work through D.I.R.T. and HILLWORKS has received regional and national awards in design and research. David lectures regularly at universities, symposia, and conferences.
David graduated from Georgia Tech University with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and earned a Master in Landscape Architecture and Master in Architecture from the University of Virginia.

Color Theory Workshop (SOLD OUT)
2026-02-10 18:00 - 21:00
Learn how to use and better understand applying color as an artist. Visualize how colors relate to one another by studying the color wheel.
Gain understanding of how to mix colors to achieve a desired result, as well as learn the technique of optical blending. Explore how to lighten and darken color intensity, color harmonies, and how to create strong color relationships.

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.

Art Start
2026-02-11 10:30 - 11:30
Nurture your early learner’s creativity through art, music, movement, and play! Art Start invites toddlers and preschoolers to explore in a welcoming environment that encourages curiosity, imagination, and growth. Each session features a story, song, and artmaking activity, plus a special letter or instrument of the day to spark hands-on discovery for families and caregivers to enjoy together.
Drop by on this day to experience What Time Is It, Mr. Crocodile? by Judy Sierra, a playful story about planning, patience, and daily routines. Then create a paper cuckoo clock artwork inspired by the AMFA exhibition A Month of Sundays: Art and the Persistence of Time.

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. A Month of Sundays: Art and the Persistence of Time was organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

Image courtesy of Jason Masters

Drop-in Metalsmithing
2026-02-11 18:00 - 21:00
Drop into the Metals Studio for a three-hour session to work on your class projects or individually driven artworks.
One of our expert metals artists will be monitoring the studio to offer advice and direction towards completing your artwork. Each three-hour session provides an opportunity to develop and refine your skills in an independently focused work environment.
This session is intended for students who are currently enrolled in a metals class or have taken an 8-week metals course at the Windgate Art School. Supplies are not included. Students must bring their own materials or purchase materials from the AMFA Museum Store.

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.

Art Insights: Unnatural Habitats
2026-02-12 18:00 - 19:00
Experience an evening that bridges art, ecology, and wildlife.
Artist Lori Larusso kicks off the evening with a presentation on her exhibition, A Paradox of Plenty, where her paintings reflect on urban expansion, consumer culture, and how animals adapt to these ecosystems.
In conversation with Dr. Laura Bernstein-Kurtycz from the Little Rock Zoo and Leslie Cooper from Quail Forever, Larusso reveals how her scenes of playful juxtapositions reframe how we see modern life and cohabitation with animals.
Before the conversation begins, stop by the Atrium from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. for a special meet-and-great with the Little Rock Zoo’s animal ambassadors. After the event concludes, enjoy a meet-and-greet with Larusso at the AMFA Museum Store and pick up a signed copy of her exhibition catalog.

Lori Larusso: A Paradox of Plenty is supported in part by The Brown Foundation, Inc. of Houston.
This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
The catalog for Lori Larusso: A Paradox of Plenty is supported in part by the Great Meadows Foundation.

Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Art for Two: Heart Pendants (SOLD OUT)
2026-02-13 18:00 - 21:00
Create a vibrant and colorful Valentine-inspired glass heart pendant using the technique of flame-working glass over a torch flame.
Under the expert guidance of a skilled glass artist, you will learn the process of glass sculpting and work with a variety of colorful glass rods, using the torch to melt and manipulate the material.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.

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.

Art For Two: Ceramic Wall Sconces (SOLD OUT)
2026-02-13 18:00 - 21:00
Create a set of decorative candle sconces from soft clay that can hang on your wall.
Art For Two is the perfect one-night class experience for two where you each take home a finished piece. Class materials, a charcuterie board, and refreshments are included, no skills required – just come ready to create, unwind, and add some artistic spark to your evening.
Your creations will be fired and ready for pick up approximately four weeks after the class.

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 Jenn Perren.

Creative Saturdays
2026-02-14 10:00 - 13:00
Decorate festive masks with a Valentine’s Day twist, using vibrant reds, pinks, and glittering embellishments to make a one-of-a-kind Carnival-inspired creation to celebrate SoMardi Gras.
At Creative Saturdays, guests of all ages and abilities are welcome. Just drop in and enjoy a free, family-friendly art-making activity in AMFA’s Windgate Art School – no registration required!

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 in part by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied on all classes through 2026.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.
