Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Wednesday Spins
2026-06-24 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
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 Afrosia, 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
2026-06-24 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-01 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-08 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.

Sneak Series: The Invite (SOLD OUT)
2026-06-24 18:30 - 20:30
The Arkansas Cinema Society and Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts are proud to present A24’s The Invite at a special sneak preview screening before its theatrical release on June 26, 2026.
Stars Olivia Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz and Edward Norton exchange jabs, flirtations and truths in this delicious dinner party, directed by Wilde.
Variety calls it, “Marvelously entertaining,” while The Guardian proclaims, “This is Wilde’s triumph … a genuinely funny and uncommonly intelligent comedy for adults.”
About the Film
Joe and Angela’s marriage is on thin ice. When they invite their enigmatic upstairs neighbors for a dinner party, the night spirals into unexpected places. Have they reignited the spark or lit the match that burns it all down?
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: Glass Flowers (SOLD OUT)
2026-06-26 18:00 - 21:00
Create vibrant floral and botanical glass artwork using a hot torch and flame. Under the guidance of an expert glass artist, you will learn the fundamental techniques for sculpting flowers, leaves, and botanical features with colorful glass rods.
This hands-on workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn the craft of flame-working and create one-of-a-kind glass pieces.
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.
Artwork by Donnell Williams.

Family Fest: American Summer
2026-06-27 10:00 - 13:00
Kick off the Fourth of July holiday with a day of art, music, food, and fun at AMFA!
Around the Museum grounds, find exciting festivities like lawn games, live music, tasty concessions, and even a car show – and look out for laughs with our beloved pink puppet dog, Flurffy.
Step inside the Museum to experience an art installation, enjoy free art-making activities, and more:

Art Activities / Try your hand at flag making, clay stamping, calligraphy, and more in the Windgate Art School.
Community Created / Explore an art installation in the Atrium featuring thousands of postcards collected from Arkansans across the state.
Drinks & Snacks / Purchase treats like snow cones, hot dogs, fruit, and lemonade on the Event Lawn.
Lawn Games / Play Baggo, Giant Connect Four, and other fun games on the Event Lawn.
Letters to America / Put your American story into words with the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Clinton Presidential Center, and Made By Us in the Cultural Living Room.
Live Entertainment / Play with Big Poppa Bubble or relax and unwind to live music performed by Hickory and Honey on the Event Lawn.
Car Show / Check out classic American cars, vintage trucks, and more vehicles from the Museum of Automobiles parked outside the Courtyard Entrance.

This event is recommended for ages 4 and up.

Family Fest: American Summer and Community Created are made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
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.

Spotlight Tour: America 250
2026-06-27 10:30 - 11:30, 2026-07-04 10:30 - 11:30
Take a docent-led tour to discover the diverse contributions of American artists throughout the AMFA Galleries.
Enjoy a guided look at several carefully selected works on view, gain a richer connection to our nation’s art history, and leave with a new understanding of the AMFA Foundation Collection.

Gallery Tours are supported in part by Fleur S. Bresler.
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts extends its gratitude to The Brown Foundation, Inc. of Houston, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the Roy and Christine Sturgis Charitable and Educational Trust for grant awards supporting stewardship and conservation of the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Foundation Collection.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters.

Drop-in Metalsmithing
2026-06-29 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-06 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-07-13 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 eight-week metals class 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 Start
2026-07-01 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 art-making 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, Windows by Julia Denos, a poetic look at different views and moments in everyday life. Then, create a colorful window view inspired by the many perspectives and shared stories celebrated through America 250.

Image courtesy of Jason Masters

Wednesday Spins
2026-07-01 17:00 - 20:00, 2026-07-08 17:00 - 20:00, 2026-07-15 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 Nick Hud, 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.

Art for Two: Coin Rings (SOLD OUT)
2026-07-03 18:00 - 21:00
Create a custom-sized ring from a vintage silver coin. Learn techniques for shaping, refining, and finishing your original silver band.
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.
Artwork by Jann Greenland.

Creative Saturdays
2026-07-04 10:00 - 13:00
Create a dynamic college firework using bold shapes, layer materials, and vibrant color. Inspired by our nation’s Independence Day and this year’s America 250 celebration, this project invites guests to celebrate creativity, history, and moments of joy through artmaking.
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.

Art Start
2026-07-08 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 art-making 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, Maybe Something Beautiful by Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell, a story about how art and kindness can transform a community. Then, create watercolor flowers inspired by the creativity and joyful expressions found in the 65th Young Arkansas Artists Exhibition.

The 65th Young Arkansas Artists Exhibition and awards are supported in part by Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Delaware North and the Jacobs Family, Simmons First Foundation, Mid-Southern Watercolorists, and Blick Art Materials.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters

Cocktail Reception with Bill Meek
2026-07-09 17:30 - 18:00
Honor the legacy of artist Will Barnet with an exciting evening of cocktails and conversation.
Presented in conjunction with AMFA’s exhibition Will Barnet: Season of Life, this exclusive Circle Society reception is your chance to meet Bill Meek—the gallerist who championed Barnet’s work—before his Art Insights presentation begins in the Amerine/Calhoun Glass Box at 6:00 p.m.
Not in Circle Society? Join today or upgrade your membership to access tickets for this event, or call 501.372.4000 for more information.

Will Barnet: Seasons of Life is supported in part by Jackye and Curtis Finch Jr.
The Museum extends its deepest gratitude to Jackye and Curtis Finch for their commitment to the growth of the AMFA Foundation Collection, and for their ongoing role in supporting the acquisition of works by Will Barnet.
This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
ARTWORK: Will Barnet (Beverly, Massachusetts, 1911 – 2012, New York, New York), The Artist and His Dealer (detail), 1991–1998, oil on canvas, 26 1/2 x 30 in., Collection of William Meek, © Ona Barnet

Art Insights: Will Barnet's "Seasons of Life"
2026-07-09 18:00 - 19:00
Will Barnet, a leading American painter and printmaker, is known for his distinctive style and meditative works. With his series Seasons of Life now on view at the Museum, get to know Barnet and the stories behind his work with Bill Meek, Director Emeritus of the Harmon-Meek Gallery and a close friend of the artist.
In conversation with Dr. Catherine Walworth, AMFA’s Jackye and Curtis Finch, Jr., Curator of Drawings, Meek shares insights into Barnet’s life and work, drawing on a decades-long relationship with the artist.
Together, they reflect on Barnet’s evolving practice and how he moved between abstraction and representation while continually returning to themes of family and time.
Circle Society Donors enjoy a complimentary drink during an intimate reception before this event.

Will Barnet: Seasons of Life is supported in part by Jackye and Curtis Finch Jr.
The Museum extends its deepest gratitude to Jackye and Curtis Finch for their commitment to the growth of the AMFA Foundation Collection, and for their ongoing role in supporting the acquisition of works by Will Barnet.
This exhibition is organized by the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.
ARTWORK: Will Barnet (Beverly, Massachusetts, 1911 – 2012, New York, New York), Silent Seasons, Autumn (detail), 1969, lithograph on paper, 29 3/4 x 22 in., Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Foundation Collection: Purchase, Tabriz Fund and Museum Purchase Plan of the NEA. 1971.009.011.1.

"10 Things I Hate About You" with Screenwriter Kirsten "Kiwi" Smith
2026-07-10 18:30 - 20:30
Discover how Shakespeare inspired a hit ’90s rom-com!
Based on William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, 10 Things I Hate About You transforms a classic comedy into a modern high school story about independence, identity, and unexpected love.
Before the screening, enjoy a live Q&A with screenwriter Kirsten “Kiwi” Smith, whose many credits include Legally Blonde, Ella Enchanted, and She’s the Man. Smith will share insights into adapting Shakespeare for contemporary audiences and how these centuries-old characters are still relevant today.
This event is recommended for ages 13 and up.
Want more Shakespeare? See the original story that inspired the film on Saturday, July 11, at a screening of The Globe Theatre’s The Taming of the Shrew, filmed with a boisterous live audience that replicates the thrill of Shakespeare’s original theatre.

Creative Saturdays
2026-07-11 10:00 - 13:00
Create a colorful and playful piece of wearable art inspired by theatre costumes during a hands-on activity hosted in partnership with the Westwind School of Performing Arts. Experiment with bold colors, patterns, and textures to design a unique accessory that celebrates self expression.
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 the Westwind School for Performing Arts
Westwind School for Performing Arts is a charter school serving students in grades 6–8 in North Little Rock, Arkansas. Westwind provides an engaging educational experience that combines rigorous academics with intensive arts instruction in theatre, dance, visual arts, choir, and instrumental music.
Westwind is proud to be recognized as a B-rated school by the Arkansas Department of Education, reflecting its commitment to academic growth and student achievement. The school has also been recognized by the Office for Education Policy at the University of Arkansas for achieving one of the state’s highest growth scores in English Language Arts.
Through innovative arts integration, community partnerships, and hands-on learning experiences, Westwind empowers students to discover their talents, build confidence, and develop as creative thinkers, performers, and future leaders.

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.

Tool Making for Clay Workshop
2026-07-11 10:00 - 13:00
Create and design a customized, wooden tool to use for forming and shaping your clay artwork. Use basic woodworking techniques to carve, cut, and sand a hard wood into a personalized, long-lasting tool for your studio.

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.
Tools by Kim Arcega.

Gallery Tour
2026-07-11 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.

The Globe Theatre's "The Taming of the Shrew"
2026-07-11 14:00 - 17:00
Leap back in time to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre with this hilarious filmed stage production of The Taming of the Shrew. Filmed live on the Globe stage in London, this lauded production recreates the energy, staging, and audience connection of Shakespeare’s original theatre, offering a glimpse of how his plays may have looked and sounded in his own time.
In Shakespeare’s most outrageous comedy, two wealthy sisters must be married off. The modest, demure Bianca has no shortage of suitors, but who on earth will take the wild, ungovernable, shrewish Katherina? Only the gold-digging Petruchio, a man as maddeningly strong-willed as Katherina herself, is equal to the task of bringing her to the altar.
This event is recommended for ages 13 and up.
Want more Shakespeare? Catch a screening of 10 Things I Hate About You followed by a Q+A with the film’s screenwriter on Friday, July 10, to compare a modern retelling with a performance rooted in the traditions of Shakespeare’s own stage.

Photo by Manuel Harlan.

Drop-in Expressive Painting with Music
2026-07-12 13:00 - 16:00
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.

Meditative Sundays
2026-07-12 14:00 - 15:00
Explore meditation, reflection, and creative awareness in honor of AMFA’s exhibition A Month of Sundays: Art and the Persistence of Time, where art becomes a guide for slowing down, calming the mind, and reconnecting to the present.
Led in collaboration with specialists from the UAMS Mindfulness Program, Meditative Sundays offers a guided experience, from meditation and slow looking to sound baths and yoga. As the series unfolds, deepen focus, release stress, and build support well-being and connection through art.
In this session, respond to simple writing prompts inspired by meditative practice. Through poems, impressions, and reflections, guests will learn to use responsive writing to support presence, calm, and creativity.

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.

Photo by Sara Reeves.

Art Start
2026-07-15 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 art-making 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, Maybe Something Beautiful by Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell, a story abouthow art and kindness can transform a community. Then, create watercolor flowers inspired by the creativity and joyful expressions found in the 65th Young Arkansas Artists Exhibition.

The 65th Young Arkansas Artists Exhibition and awards are supported in part by Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Delaware North and the Jacobs Family, Simmons First Foundation, Mid-Southern Watercolorists, and Blick Art Materials.
Image courtesy of Jason Masters

Art Insights: Playing Dead (SOLD OUT)
2026-07-15 18:00 - 19:30
Explore the wit, resilience, and power of Shakespeare’s women with the author of Performing Shakespeare’s Women: Playing Dead – noted Shakespeare scholar, Dr. Paige Martin Reynolds.
In this engaging conversation, Reynolds examines comic heroines and tragic visionaries and how these classic characters navigate performance, silence, agency, and identity. Live performances of iconic scenes by local and SHAKE Theatre actors will illuminate the discussion.
The conversation will be moderated by Dr. Pilar McKay, Managing Director of SHAKE Theatre of New York and a seasoned theatre leader, entrepreneur, artist, and strategist.
AMFA Members receive a complimentary drink at this event, with additional refreshments available for purchase.
Not an AMFA Member? Join today for access to this and other exclusive Member benefits. Call the membership team at 501.372.4000 for more information.

Photo by Keith Pattison © RSC
