Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Sneak Series Double Feature: Eddington
2025-07-16 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
The Arkansas Cinema Society and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts are proud to partner with A24 for a very special double feature of The Wild Bunch and Eddington.

Acclaimed director Ari Aster (Hereditary, Midsommar) returns for his highly anticipated follow-up to 2023’s Beau Is Afraid with the neo-western thriller Eddington.

About the Film

Eddington stars Joaquin Phoenix as small-town sheriff Joe Cross, who runs for mayor when progressive incumbent Ted Garcia (Pedro Pascal) attempts to modernize their dusty hamlet by attracting a new artificial-intelligence data center.

Run Time: 2 hours, 28 minutesRating: R

WATCH THE TRAILER

This screening is presented in partnership with the Arkansas Cinema Society.

Drop-in Drawing
2025-07-16 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-07-02 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.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Photo: Iwan Baan.

Wednesday Spins
2025-07-16 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-07-09 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-07-02 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 Jordan Cox, 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!
Photo by Natalie Zeta.

Sneak Series Double Feature: The Wild Bunch
2025-07-16 15:30 - 18:00
The Arkansas Cinema Society and the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts are proud to partner with A24 for a very special double feature of The Wild Bunch and Eddington.

‍The Wild Bunch is regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, having been selected for preservation in the Library of Congress’ American Film Registry and ranked in the top 100 films of all time by the American Film Institute. Eddington director Ari Aster (Hereditary, Midsommar) hand picked this film to screen in this double feature.

About the Film

In this gritty Western classic, aging outlaw Pike Bishop (William Holden) prepares to retire after one final robbery. Joined by his gang, which includes Dutch Engstrom (Ernest Borgnine) and brothers Lyle (Warren Oates) and Tector Gorch (Ben Johnson), Bishop discovers the heist is a setup orchestrated in part by his old partner, Deke Thornton (Robert Ryan). As the remaining gang takes refuge in Mexican territory, Thornton trails them, resulting in fierce gunfights with plenty of casualties.

Run Time: 2 hours, 15 minutesRating: R

WATCH THE TRAILER

This screening is presented in partnership with the Arkansas Cinema Society.

Art Start
2025-07-16 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-07-08 10:30 - 11:30
Explore the hidden connections between nature and daily life with a reading of Outside In, a poetic story about the ever-present outdoors. Inspired by AMFA’s exhibition The Long View: From Conservation to Sustainability, this session invites children to construct a recycled 3D landscape project, using repurposed materials to recreate nature through art.
Art Start is an early reader program that pairs children’s books with art activities, inviting toddlers and preschool students to learn through reading, imaginative play, and art-making.
This free program welcomes parents, grandparents, caregivers, and our youngest patrons to drop in and explore with us – no reservations required!

Art Start is supported in part by the Alice L. Walton Foundation and Walmart Spark Good.
The Long View: From Conservation to Sustainability: Works from the Bank of America Collection is presented by Bank of America.

Additional support is provided by Anne and Merritt Dyke.
This exhibition has been loaned through the Bank of America Art in our Communities® program.

"The Tempest" by William Shakespeare
2025-07-13 14:00 - 15:30, 2025-07-12 14:00 - 15:30, 2025-07-11 19:30 - 21:00, 2025-07-10 19:30 - 21:00
In this classic tale of a shipwreck set on a remote island filled with monsters, fairies, court jesters, drunken butlers, and young lovers, the exiled Duke of Milan, Prospero, conjures a mighty storm to shipwreck his enemies.
Will he seek revenge, or will forgiveness prove the greater power? This fast-paced, spectacle-driven adaptation by SHAKE sets out to prove that “we are such stuff as dreams are made on.”
Blending music, live foley, improvisation, puppetry, and audience interaction, this production delivers a Shakespearean experience like no other that will captivate audiences aged 12 and up.
“The island is full of noises and sweet airs, that delight, and hurt not.”
Children’s Theatre and Performing Arts programs are supported in part by the Shubert Foundation and the Alice L. Walton Foundation.

Figure Drawing Workshop
2025-07-12 13:00 - 16:00
Explore masterful figurative artworks in the AMFA galleries and draw your own figurative work of art. An expert artist will lead you through the AMFA galleries to view select artworks in person, and then return to the studio in AMFA’s Windgate Art School to instruct techniques of figurative drawing in this hands-on workshop.
Working with a live model, learn how to capture form, light, shadow, and texture. This is a perfect one-day workshop for all skill levels and interests to develop figurative drawing skills!

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Puppetry Masterclass with Josh Rice
2025-07-12 10:30 - 12:30
Unleash your creativity in this fun, hands-on exploration of puppetry with Josh Rice, a creative force in the world of contemporary puppet theatre! Aspiring puppeteers aged 16 and up will enjoy an inside look at Rice’s processes and take inspiration from his work to create something new.
About Josh Rice
Rice is the co-founder and Producing Artistic Director of SHAKE, as well as the founder of the New York State Puppet Festival. He is also a recipient of a 2024 Jim Henson Foundation Production Grant.
His current production Kayfabe, a puppet wrestling entertainment spectacular, explores the crossroads of traditional forms of puppetry and popular culture.

Children’s Theatre and Performing Arts programs are supported in part by the Shubert Foundation and the Alice L. Walton Foundation.
Photo by Kat Kuo.

Gallery Tour
2025-07-12 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-07-05 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.

Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Creative Saturdays
2025-07-12 10:00 - 13:00
Experiment with bold lines, bright colors, and playful patterns during this free art-making activity in AMFA’s Windgate Art School hosted by Mid-Southern Watercolorists.
Take inspiration from the detailed drawings on view in the 64th Young Arkansas Artists exhibition to create your own vibrant composition that pops with personality and design using ink and watercolor.
About Mid-Southern Watercolorists
Mid-Southern Watercolorists (MSW) is a non-profit organization incorporated in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1970. It was founded by five artists: Doris Williamson Mapes, Bruce R. Anderson, Josephine Graham, Edwin C. Brewer, and Catherine Tharp Altvater. The organization has approximately 200 members in 13 states, Puerto Rico, and Japan.
Their goal is to enrich the stature of watermedia and encourage the recognition of its significance in our culture. This organization furthers the interest of painters and patrons by its programs and by its competitive and non-competitive exhibits. It also provides opportunities for study by art students and others engaged in art making and in appreciation of arts.

Creative Saturdays are supported in part by the Alice L. Walton Foundation.
The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported in part by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied on all classes through 2025.
The 64th Young Arkansas Artists exhibition and awards are supported in part by the Alice L. Walton Foundation, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, and Delaware North and the Jacobs Family, with additional support from Mid-Southern Watercolorists.
Redeemable coupons awarded to the 64th Young Arkansas Artists exhibition honorable mention and best-in-class winners are provided by Blick Art Materials.
Image coutesy of Jason Masters.

Art for Two: Punched Pendants
2025-07-11 18:00 - 21:00
Discover how to transform brass and copper into a new layered pendant! Learn simple metalsmithing techniques to cut discs, drill holes, and add custom texture to your piece using disc-cutters, hammers, and stamps.
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.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Pendants by Myriam Saavedra.

Art For Two: Pottery on the Wheel (SOLD OUT)
2025-07-11 18:00 - 21:00
Learn how to throw pottery on a wheel!
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.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.

Woodturned Bottle Stopper Workshop
2025-07-10 18:00 - 21:00
This one-session workshop offers an excellent introduction to woodturning, perfect for beginners or those looking to try something new.
You will learn 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!

The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Bottle stoppers by Kim Fifer.

Everyday Magic: Puppetry and Breaking Boundaries with Josh Rice
2025-07-09 18:00 - 19:30
Discover the transformative power of puppetry with Jim Henson Foundation Award winner and SHAKE Producing Artistic Director Josh Rice. Along with his talented team, he will reveal how puppetry illuminates text, ignites creativity, and forges new pathways for self-expression beyond societal and linguistic boundaries.
This interactive discussion features industry experts, culminating in a hands-on exploration of how everyday objects can be used as tools for puppetry, storytelling, and cross-cultural communication, perfect for audiences aged 12 and up.
AMFA Members are invited to enjoy a complimentary drink before the program begins during Member Mingle in the Cultural Living Room.
About Josh Rice
Rice is the co-founder and Producing Artistic Director of Shake Productions, as well as the founder of the New York State Puppet Festival. He is also a recipient of a 2024 Jim Henson Foundation Production Grant.
His current production Kayfabe, a puppet wrestling entertainment spectacular, explores the crossroads of traditional forms of puppetry and popular culture.

Everyday Magic: Puppetry and Breaking Boundaries with Josh Rice is supported in part by the Alice L. Walton Foundation.
Children’s Theatre and Performing Arts programs are supported in part by the Shubert Foundation and the Alice L. Walton Foundation.

Drop-in Printmaking
2025-07-09 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.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
Photo by Rachel Cobler.

Member Mingle: "The Tempest" by William Shakespeare
2025-07-09 17:00 - 20:00
Raise a glass to art and good company at this Shakespeare-themed Member Mingle.
Stop by Wednesday Spins to enjoy a complimentary drink and chat with the cast and crew of The Tempest, including director Josh Rice, ahead of an interactive discussion about the art of puppetry in the Amerine/Calhoun Glass Box at 6:00 p.m.
Not an AMFA Member? Join today for access to this event.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Flurffy's Secret Garden
2025-07-05 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-06-28 11:00 - 12:30
When a shy little girl arrives in town, Flurffy and his friends plan a delightful garden party to welcome her. But will the mysterious Dr. Craven ruin their plans by keeping them out of the enchanted garden?
Celebrate the start of summertime with Flurffy, AMFA’s beloved pink puppet dog, in this original production inspired by the art on view in The Long View: From Conservation to Sustainability: Works from the Bank of America Collection.
This imaginative show – featuring AMFA-crafted puppets, repurposed props, and recycled set pieces – promises a sweet theatrical treat filled with original songs and interactive play.
The show runtime is approximately 30 minutes, with showtimes starting at 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

Flurffy’s Secret Garden is supported in part by the Alice L. Walton Foundation.
The Long View: From Conservation to Sustainability: Works from the Bank of America Collection is presented by Bank of America.

Additional support is provided by Anne and Merritt Dyke.
This exhibition has been loaned through the Bank of America Art in our Communities® program.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Creative Saturdays
2025-07-05 10:00 - 13:00
Celebrate Independence Day with a burst of color and creativity! Through this hands-on project, design your own dazzling fireworks using chalk pastels and metallic drawing supplies. Blend, swirl, and layer vibrant colors to capture the excitement of the night sky.
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!

Creative Saturdays are supported in part by the Alice L. Walton Foundation.
The Windgate Art School is generously supported by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported in part by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied on all classes through 2025.

Art Start
2025-07-02 10:30 - 11:30
Inspired by AMFA’s exhibition The Long View: From Conservation to Sustainability, this session will focus on the wonders of the animal world with a reading of What Do You Do With a Tail Like This? by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page.
After story time, children will dive into a hands-on activity, creating their own watercolor animal paintings inspired by the creatures they learned about – perfect for curious minds who love animals, art, and adventure!
Art Start is an early reader program that pairs children’s books with art activities, inviting toddlers and preschool students to learn through reading, imaginative play, and art-making.
This free program welcomes parents, grandparents, caregivers, and our youngest patrons to drop in and explore with us – no reservations required!

Art Start is supported in part by the Alice L. Walton Foundation and Walmart Spark Good.
The Long View: From Conservation to Sustainability: Works from the Bank of America Collection is presented by Bank of America.

Additional support is provided by Anne and Merritt Dyke.
This exhibition has been loaned through the Bank of America Art in our Communities® program.

Drop-In Demonstration with Mona Cliff
2025-06-28 14:00 - 17:00
Experience the intricate beadwork of Delta Voices artist Mona Cliff (Aaniiih), whose drop-in demonstration blends traditional Indigenous techniques with contemporary materials.
Cliff’s work explores generational knowledge passed between Native women and uses beadwork as a powerful expression of identity, connection to land, and cultural resilience.
Through interacting with the artist and observing her process up close, learn how Cliff connects to traditions and contemporary practices that speak to heritage and Native futurism.

About Mona Cliff

Mona Cliff (Aniiih) b.1977 is a multidisciplinary visual artist. Seedbead beadwork & sewing appliqué have been a primary foundation of her artist practice. Her art practice focuses on how traditional arts are passed down between generations of women, thus influencing culture. Mona pursues the concepts of generational knowledge while exploring other topics such as native futurism and contemporary indigenous identity.

She recently concluded a commissioned work for the newly built Kansas City International Airport. A beaded piece that spans 17 feet. Her work can also be seen at the Autry Museum of the American West in Los Angeles included in the Future Imaginaries exhibition, which will be on display until 2026. She is preparing for several solo exhibits in 2025 and 2026.

Mona is married and has three children. She currently resides in Lawrence, Kansas. Mona Cliff is an enrolled member of the Gros Ventre tribe (A’aninin/Nakota Nations).

ARTWORK: Mona Cliff, stratification, 2024, seedbeads, beeswax (copal, pine rosin, petroleum jelly), rhinestone, thread, maple wood, plywood, 100 x 42x 3 in.
Drop-in Demonstration with Mona Cliff is supported in part by the Windgate Foundation.

Poetry and Limited Palette Painting Workshop with Greta Kresse
2025-06-28 13:00 - 16:00
Write, reflect, and paint in this hands-on workshop with Delta Voices artist Greta Kresse. Explore how language and color can inspire one another as you craft a limited palette, using a small but intentional selection of colors, shaped by the mood, rhythm, and imagery of your writing.
Through guided exercises, discussion, and painting, discover how creative constraints can open new possibilities for storytelling and self-expression.
This two-day workshop meets on Saturday, June 28, and Sunday, June 29, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

About Greta Kresse

Greta Kresse (b. 1999, Little Rock, AR) is a plein-air painter based in Fayetteville, AR. She received her BA from Hendrix College and is pursuing an MFA at the University of Arkansas, supplementing her education through programs at the New York Studio School and The Mount Gretna School of Art. Kresse teaches workshops at the Arts and Science Center for Southeast Arkansas.

Working primarily in oils, she creates vibrant narrative paintings that explore human connection within the Southern landscape, particularly focusing on intimate scenes along Arkansas rivers. Her documentary-style approach captures moments of profound connection between community members, investigating themes of isolation, beauty, and love in the American South. Drawing inspiration from regional poetry and direct observation, Kresse’s work proposes comfort and connection as forms of resistance, presenting authentic representations of her community.

ARTWORK: Greta Kresse, Like a Bug in Brandy (detail), oil on board, 30 x 30 in.
The Windgate Art School is generously supported in part by the Windgate Foundation with additional support from Sherry Worthen in memory of George Worthen.
Windgate Art School’s Reduced Tuition Program is supported by Michael Laughter. Reduced tuition is automatically applied to all classes through 2025.
