#Arkansas museum of fine arts

[baebeylik]

“Do You Still Practice Your Culture?” by Raven Halfmoon. Norman, Oklahoma. 2019.

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

[icleanedthisplate]

Christmas Party Buffet (Prime Rib, Macaroni & Cheese Martini, Chicken w/Tapenade). Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Catering. 12.15.2023.

NOTE TO SELF: All of it was good, especially for party food, but the highlights were the prime rib and the tapenade. The macaroni was surprisingly good when loaded up with the tomatoes, bacon, and chicken. Well, I guess that shouldn't have been a surprise.

Currently ranked 2nd of 16 December meals.

[getoutofthisplace]

Dear Gus & Magnus,

At the last minute we decided to have a picnic dinner at the Museum of Fine Arts during their Fridays on the Lawn series -- The Rodney Block Collective played. Nene joined us. The museum wouldn't let us bring in our Vino's pizza, but we were happy sitting out in the park where the music wasn't so loud anyway.

After we ate, we got up close to the stage and Magnus named the instruments, which he's learned from the Symphony book we read a lot that Nene got him. "Where is the timpani?" Gus wanted to get close to the stage, "...but I don't want to dance, okay, Dad?"

It was a good start to the weekend.

Dad.

Little Rock, Arkansas. 10.20.2023 - 6.33pm.

[particellare]

Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts - Little Rock Ar 10-08-2024

Pagina ufficiale

[thunderstruck9]

Elaine De Kooning (American, 1918-1989), Standing Bull, 1958. Oil and acrylic on canvas, 78 1/4 x 108 1/4 in, Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Little Rock

[artemlegere]

"Learn to light a candle in the darkest moments of someone's life. Be the light that helps others see; it is what gives life its deepest significance." ~ Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart

The Lantern Bearers

Artist: Maxwell Parrish (American, 1870–1966))

Date: 1908

Period: Symbolism

Media: Oil on Canvas Mounted on Board

Collection: Crystal Bridges Museum of Arts, Bentonville, Arkansas

The fanciful subject matter of The Lantern Bearers is typical of Parrish's work early in the twentieth century and demonstrates the influence of acclaimed illustrator Howard Pyle, under whom Parrish studied at Drexel Arts Institute in Philadelphia. "He emphasized to Parrish the importance of historical accuracy and the need for models to wear authentic costumes if at all possible, for the audience wished to transport themselves into the image and fantasize as to its meaning." Parrish became aware of the commercial appeal of historical scenes and adapted the practice of working from the costumed model.

Instead of spending hours drawing from the actual model, Parrish instead took photographs, a form of artistic shorthand, and worked from them. Susan Lewin, his favorite and most often used model, posed as one of the pierrots in The Lantern Bearers. The seated figure in the lower left of the composition is an almost exact representation of the photograph. Parrish began using photography at the encouragement of Thomas Anshutz, one of his instructors at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts from 1892 to 1894 and it became an integral component of his creative process throughout his career.

[galleryofart]

The Lantern Bearers

Artist: Maxwell Parrish (American, 1870–1966))

Date: 1908

Period: Symbolism

Media: Oil on Canvas Mounted on Board

Collection: Crystal Bridges Museum of Arts, Bentonville, Arkansas

The fanciful subject matter of The Lantern Bearers is typical of Parrish's work early in the twentieth century and demonstrates the influence of acclaimed illustrator Howard Pyle, under whom Parrish studied at Drexel Arts Institute in Philadelphia. "He emphasized to Parrish the importance of historical accuracy and the need for models to wear authentic costumes if at all possible, for the audience wished to transport themselves into the image and fantasize as to its meaning." Parrish became aware of the commercial appeal of historical scenes and adapted the practice of working from the costumed model.

Instead of spending hours drawing from the actual model, Parrish instead took photographs, a form of artistic shorthand, and worked from them. Susan Lewin, his favorite and most often used model, posed as one of the pierrots in The Lantern Bearers. The seated figure in the lower left of the composition is an almost exact representation of the photograph. Parrish began using photography at the encouragement of Thomas Anshutz, one of his instructors at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts from 1892 to 1894 and it became an integral component of his creative process throughout his career.

[mississippianunderwaterpanther]

MISSISSIPPIAN UNDERWATER PANTHER EFFIGIES

Ceramic of the Underwater Panther, from the Mississippian culture, 1400 - 1600, found in Rose Mound, Cross County, Arkansas, US. From the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian, New York.

Minneapolis Institute of Art (MOUNDVILLE)

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Red and white were symbolically significant colors that represented fundamental oppositions such as peace and war, light and dark and the on-going struggle between the celestial and subterranean realms.  Underwater Panthers belonged to the subterranean and possessed great supernatural power. Their significance led Mississippian and subsequent artists to depict them frequently in many forms and media, including three-dimensional sculptures like this vessel.

ANIMAL EFFIGY BOTTLE OF UNDERWATER PANTHER

AD 1550–1750CERAMIC

Quapaw. Arkansas

Gilcrease Museum, Tulsa, Oklahoma

Wisconsin

UNDERWATER PANTHER BOWLS

Underwater Panther-Great Serpent bowl, Late Mississippian, AD 1300-1500, from Rhodes Place, en:Crittenden County, Arkansas, USA.

FRIENDS MOUND, ARKANSAS

Underwater Panther Effigy Bowl, Northeast Arkansas, AD 1350–1600, clay, shell, courtesy of the University of Arkansas Museum collections, photograph by Rett Peek, from “Arkansas Made, Second Edition, Volume I”

(University of Arkansas Press, Historic Arkansas Museum)

HAMPSON MUSEUM, ARKANSAS; NODENA CULTURE

Carved limestone pipe bowl in the shape of a stylized cat. It was recovered during archaeological excavations of the Mississippian mounds at Moundville in Tuscaloosa County. The pipe is believed to represent the "underwater panther," a recurring figure in Native American folklore so named for the belief that its swirling tail was the source of whirlpools.

ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO (ARKANSAS)

The "Davis Pipe" found in the central Mississippi Valley. Mississippian culture depiction of an "underwater panther". 7" in length, weight almost 3 lbs, made of fine grained sandstone.

Mississippian Piasa effigy pipe AD 1300–1500 Moundville, Hale County, Alabama Glendon limestone 14 x 7 x 11 cm Clarence B.

[aranov]

thanks for the tag @clacksoperator!

Last song: Baby Beluga sung absently by my wife

Favorite color: teal

Last movie: In theaters, War of the Rohirrim. Chronologically, Home Alone

Last show: uh. Some home decor thing my mom had on at home

Sweet/Spicy/Savoury: Sweet my beloved

Relationship Status: Married for just over 6 months

Last thing I googled: Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts

Current Obsession: When Southern Women Cook, a giant cookbook with 300 recipes and also history and lore

Looking forward to: Seeing how much of my unfinished project pile I can get through this month!

Would love to get to know better: @bookbrig @goodymcgoodface @diet-cokette @logicbutton @nerdyveganrunner if you like! No pressure.

[technicallyeclectictale]

Relax and Play at Riverfront Park in Little Rock

Introduction

Nestled along the banks of the Arkansas River, Riverfront Park in Little Rock offers a stunning blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural experiences. This Jethros Arkansas Roofing urban oasis is not just a park; it's a vibrant hub where families, friends, and tourists come together to relax and play. With its beautiful trails, scenic views, and proximity to iconic landmarks like the William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum and the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, Riverfront Park serves as a gateway to explore the rich history and culture that define Little Rock.

In this article, we will delve into all that Riverfront Park has to offer—from outdoor adventures to family-friendly activities. We’ll also explore nearby attractions like the Arkansas State Capitol, River Market District, and the remarkable Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts. Get ready to discover why Riverfront Park is the ultimate destination for relaxation and fun in Little Rock!

Relax and Play at Riverfront Park in Little Rock

When it comes to leisure in Little Rock, there’s no better place than Riverfront Park. Stretching over 33 acres, this park boasts an array of amenities that cater to everyone—from jogging paths lined with trees to picnic areas perfect for weekend gatherings. The Arkansas River Trail runs through the park and connects it with other key attractions in the area.

The Scenic Beauty of Riverfront Park

One of the park's main draws is its breathtaking scenery. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Arkansas River while relaxing on one of many benches scattered throughout the area. The lush landscapes are ideal for leisurely strolls or simply unwinding amidst nature.

Recreational Activities: A Playground for All Ages

Whether you're an active individual or looking for a place to unwind, Riverfront Park has something for everyone:

Walking Trails: Spanning several miles along the riverbanks, these well-kept trails invite walkers, joggers, and cyclists alike. Playgrounds: Families will appreciate the well-equipped playgrounds where children can let their imaginations run wild. Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic spots equipped with tables make it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors. Fishing Opportunities: Anglers can cast their lines into the Arkansas River right from designated areas within the park. Cultural Attractions Nearby

While at Riverfront Park, take advantage of its proximity to several cultural landmarks:

William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum: Just a stone's throw away from the park, this library offers an engaging look at presidential history through various exhibitions. Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site: Discover civil rights history by visiting this site that played a pivotal role during desegregation efforts in America. Historic Arkansas Museum: Dive deeper into local culture with exhibits showcasing Arkansas’s rich heritage. Exploring More Attractions Around Riverfront Park

Beyond its immediate offerings, t

[trascapades]

🎨#ArtIsAWeapon

I am so excited about this #NewExhibition

"Elizabeth Catlett: A Black Revolutionary Artist and All That It Implies," which opens today, September 13 at @brooklynmuseum, and will be on view through January 19, 2025!

Reposted from @brooklynmuseum The #BrooklynMuseum looks forward to welcoming you to the first major retrospective spotlighting the visionary artist and unwavering activist, #ElizabethCatlett.

With over 150 of Catlett’s well-known and rarely-seen artworks across sculpture, prints, paintings, and ephemera, this exhibition traces a career of creative artistry and bold political activism. As a sculptor and print-maker, Catlett was committed to depicting the strength and struggles of both Black American and Mexican communities.

In fact, the exhibition title takes inspiration from a talk Catlett gave in 1970, following a decade of exile from the United States in response to her political activism in Mexico. Catlett said: “I have been, am currently, and always hope to be a Black revolutionary artist and all that it implies.”

Learn more about #ElizabethCatlettBkM

Can’t make it to Brooklyn? You can experience the show in Washington, DC next year at the @ngadc.

▪︎

On September 14 from 12–7:30 pm, join us for close-looking, conversation, and more. You can expect:

🚶 A curator-led tour with Catherine Morris (@catherinejanetmorris) and Dalila Scruggs (@dalilalcs)

💭 Panel discussions on Catlett’s legacy with art historians, artists, and museum leaders

🥁 A tribute performance by Francisco Mora Catlett, AfroHORN, and Oyu Oro (@oyuoronyc)

Register in advance and pay what you can...

🖼1&2: Black Unity, 1968. Cedar. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2014.11. 2024 Mora-Catlett Family / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS) NY

🖼️ 3: I am the Black Woman, 1946–47, from the series Black Woman in America. Linocut on paper. Courtesy of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Philadelphia, Art by Women Collection, Gift of Linda Lee Alter, 2011.1.172. © 2024 Mora-Catlett Family / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY

#ArtistActivists #BlackGirlArtGeeks

[mari-cisneros-photos]

Staley- on a wet bough-Keliy Anderson

Keliy Anderson-Staley is a monographer. She was born and raised in Guilford, Maine. In her formative years, she lived with her family in an off the gird cabin. Later in her life, she lived in New York for a decade and now currently resides in Arkansas. She received her BA in photography at Hampshire College. She later obtained her MFA at Hunter College in New York City.

Anderson-Staley has exhibited her work for over a decade. Taking on solo and group exhibitions at institutions such as the National Portrait Gallery; Smithsonian Institution, the Moscow Museum of National Art, Russia, and the Southeast Museum of Photography. She has collections in both the Portland Museum of Art and the Marine Library of Congress. Along with the Ceder Museum of Art in Iowa.

The Wet-plate Collodion-

This particular style of portrait making is an over hundred-year-old method. Originating in the 1850s and 1860s, this style of photography is making a comeback in the last decade. Kelly Anderson is one of these artists bringing back the method and showcasing it in her own work. this method consists of a long exposure time needed in order to create a tintype that the sitter can remain still so a sharp image can be produced.

this method causes the subjects to remain in a transfixed neutral expression, reminiscent of those of the 19th century. This takes away the modern style of smiling for a photograph as the images need more time to capture the fine details of the subject's face.

Anderson-Staley creates her method of wet-bough by mixing and pouring the emulsion for each plate on the shooting site a little before the portrait is created. This method of hand-coating each piece leaves behind embedded traces of the maker in the final image.

Anderson-Standley states that her upbringing deeply influenced a lot of her early photography. One example was her first book, "Off the Grid" based on her childhood home. This book focuses on families who live without the modern-day amenities in Maine. This interest in people is what drove her to work in portraiture.

as stated by Anderson-Staley when asked about the evolution of her work

"I used to focus more on narrative-based photographic projects, but my work is now more conceptual. I like both modes, and I think photography is well-suited to both, but I like projects that make photography the subject of inquiry as much as the vehicle of it."- Keliey Anderson-Staley

Anderson's work is well executed and stunning to look at, as she has not only mastered the art of portrait photography but also a hundred-year-old method of taking said portraits.

Works Cited-

Anderson-Staley, Keliy, and About Keliy Anderson-Staley    Keliy Anderson-Staley has exhibited her work for over a decade in solo and group exhibitions at institutions including the National Portrait Gallery. “On a Wet Bough.” Waltz Books, www.waltzbooks.com/books/anderson-staley-on-a-wet-bough/. Accessed 4 May 2024.

MonkEL. “Portrait of an Artist: Keliy Anderson-Staley.” National Portrait Gallery, 28 Feb. 2013, npg.si.edu/blog/portrait-artist-keliy-anderson-staley.

[aman-acan-andacityplan]

Hot Springs may be the most interesting city in the state of Arkansas. The warm springs that naturally bubble up from the surrounding hillsides made the region a major tourist destination and a kind of early health resort. This may be witnessed in the many bathhouses located along the main avenue of the city. A number of these bathhouses are preserved and operated by the national park service as part of the Hot Springs National Park. If you dig a little deeper though, the story of Hot Springs is also a cautionary tale of the excesses of political corruption and vice as the city grew into a hotbed for illegal gambling in the first half of the twentieth century.

Even as the number of baths given in the city effectively peaked in the 1940's, the illegal gaming operations thrived up until about the early 60's. The motor courts and mid-century modern hotels that sit vacant and underutilized in the downtown today were built to accommodate local gamblers. The city leaned ever more into its casino town reputation in the 1950's, as the public health benefits of hot springs were debunked and modern medical practices emerged. The city's status as a kind of medicinal resort was also dealt a major body blow by the 1952 announcement that the military would be closing the Army and Navy Hospital.

Gaming thrived in no small part thanks to the political machine of Mayor Leo McLaughlin, who was mayor from 1927 to 1947. Though gaming was still technically illegal, local officials would simply assess the fines and let the operations proceed unimpeded. Gambling would ebb and flow over time, depending on the local administration and whether the state was willing to cast a blind eye to the operations. Eventually the heat from federal officials and gaming's connections to criminal enterprises simply proved to be too much to tolerate and the industry was shut down by Orval Faubus, who was the state's governor at the time. The city was essentially caught flat footed and while there were some concerted attempts at the local level to legalize gambling, these efforts would not succeed.

Today, the city continues to welcome tourists who come to see the national park and the old bathhouses, which stand mostly as museum pieces today. Hot Springs is the 13th most visited national park, according to 2023 visitor numbers, which would put it ahead of other famous national parks such as Shenandoah National Park. Also, since the park is mostly centered around the downtown area, the city is able to maintain a few trinket shops and attractions, which give the urban core a kind of rustic vibrancy.

The park alone though is not enough to reverse the visible signs of urban decay in the downtown area. The old army navy hospital was abandoned in 2019 and many of the old, historic hotels have sat abandoned for years. Also, with my camera in tow, I was able to see that many occupied buildings suffer from high vacancy, with many upper floors visibly aging and abandoned. Its a real shame cause Hot Springs has a great deal of architectural diversity with commercial structures ranging in style from art deco, art moderne, mid-century modern and beaux arts. Hot Springs' Central Avenue is still a grand commercial thoroughfare, with beautiful bathhouses and commercial structures that would put many larger cities to shame. I would go so far as to say that Hot Springs may be the last, great undiscovered city in America, a treasure trove of beautiful buildings awaiting anyone who is ambitious enough to take hold of it.

So, can Hot Springs reverse it fortunes? As things stand, I think there are two possible routes available to the city. The more conventional strategy would be to emulate Asheville. Work hard to cultivate a Bohemian atmosphere, while emphasizing the bounty of natural beauty within a short drive of the city. The Talimena Scenic Byway is a short drive from the city as is Ouachita Lake, the largest lake in the state of Arkansas. Also, with a quarter of the population in its metropolitan area relative to Asheville, it doesn't necessarily need to be on even footing with Asheville to be considered a vibrant place. Zoning reforms that relax parking standards, put pink codes in place and a building code that is aimed squarely at encouraging adaptive reuse could provide the spark for urban revitalization. A clear, regulatory signal that Hot Springs is open for business and ready to work with out of state transplants would be a strong start to reposition the city in today's economy.

The other option, and the one consultants would studiously avoid recommending, is to embrace the sleaze. Legalize gambling once more in the historic core and incentivize casinos to rehabilitate the old buildings if they wish to come into town. A similar approach was used in Deadwood, South Dakota and was the boost the place needed to reverse the decline. Legalizing gambling is not enough though as many, MANY regions nearby offer casinos, not to mention the elevated prominence of online sports betting. Deadwood also benefits from its close connections to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, one of the biggest motorcycle rallies in the country. Much like illegal gambling did in the past, the motorcycle rally has sometimes cast an unfavorable light on the region.

This was especially true in 2020 when large crowds descended on the region while pandemic restrictions were in place. In a weird way though the 2020 rally probably did a lot to cement the region's reputation as a place to let your inhibitions go. America is a vast country and there are a quite few folks who have no desire to play by the rules of polite society and crave an escape from the confines of civilization, a true wild west town. It will never curry favor with elite society, and if it did it would lose its raison d'etre. In short, if Deadwood did things the normal way, then it would probably be in the same boat as Hot Springs: a tourist destination that is subsisting, but not thriving.

As things stand, Hot Springs is at a crossroad. Is it a kinder, gentler Hot Springs, a place for microbrews and well heeled hipsters, or is it a place to cut loose and let your inhibitions run free? Since the cessation of illegal gambling in the mid-60's Hot Springs has been locked in an identity crisis, which has allowed other cities to fill the vacuum once occupied by the city. The time for choosing is now as the city's deteriorating urban fabric cannot hold on indefinitely.

[getoutofthisplace]

Dear Gus & Magnus,

Nene took us to the Children's Theatre today to see a production of "The Very Hungry Caterpillar," which you both enjoyed. Afterward we walked over to the playground and ran around, then we went to Loblolly for ice cream. Today's preferred flavors:

Dad -- Double Vanilla, Strawberry Buttermilk in a Loblolly Waffle Cone

Mom -- Funfetti in a bowl

Gus -- Cotton Candy in a regular cone

Mags -- Vanilla Coconut in a bowl

Dad.

Little Rock, Arkansas. 5.27.2023 - 1.58pm.

SIDENOTE: I don't know how Gus scratched his cheek, but it was only around for a day or so.

SIDENOTE #2: Here's some pictures Gus took.

[icleanedthisplate]

Dine-Out Meals of December 2023, Ranked

I ranked the following based on taste alone. I made no consideration for ambiance or the general dining experience or whatever. I included meals I got to go. I included food trucks, catered meals, and fast food.

Overall, a mediocre month.

Should you be interested in the pictures or reading the few words I had to say about each meal, click on the home page and scroll down or see the archives.

Sushi Rolls (Furikake, Zaragani, Kemuri). Kemuri. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.30.2023.

Kimchi Ramen. Gold Bowl. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.5.2023.

Fried Chicken Vermicelli Bowl w/Hot Honey Vindaloo. MOPHO. New Orleans, Louisiana. 12.27.2023.

Boudin Balls App (shared), Pork Poboy w/Caesar Salad. The High Hat Café. New Orleans, Louisiana. 12.29.2023.

Christmas Party Buffet (Prime Rib, Macaroni & Cheese Martini, Chicken w/Tapenade). Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts Catering. 12.15.2023.

Chicken Leg Quarters, Baked Beans, Broccoli & Cheese Casserole. Platnum BBQ (River Market). Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.1.2023.

Pizza (Arti-Garlic, Hawaii Five-O) and Wings (shared all). Theo’s Pizza (Canal). New Orleans, Louisiana. 12.26.2023.

Southern Style Chicken & Shrimp Gumbo w/Green Beans. Jamie’s Restaurant. Harrison, Arkansas. 12.18.2023.

Build Your Own Bowl Catered Buffet (Chicken, Salmon, Veggies, Rice, etc.). Green Leaf Grill (Catering). Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.13.2023.

Christmas Party Buffet (Pizza, Salad, Pimento Cheese, etc.). Lost Forty Brewing Company. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.8.2023.

Ranchero Special w/Shrimp. Casa Mojitos. Beebe, Arkansas. 12.9.2023.

Flank Steak Sandwich w/Caesar Salad. Buenos Aires Grill & Café. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.7.2023.

Famous Ferdi Sandwich. Mother’s Restaurant. New Orleans, Louisiana. 12.28.2023.

Smashed Avocado Turkey Burger w/Sweet Potato Fries. Big Orange. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.1.2023.

Za’atar Bagel Breakfast Sandwich w/Sausage. The Bagel Shop. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.14.2023.

Veggie Frittata, Egg Bite. Nexus Coffee & Creative. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.13.2023.

Avocado Toast w/Egg. Fidel & Co. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.11.2023.

Spicy Chicken Deluxe Pizza, Caesar Salad. Pizza Café. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.4.2023.

Bacon, Egg, & Cheese Hashbrown Bowl, Pecan Waffle. Waffle House. Hazelhurst, Mississippi. 12.30.2023.

Yaka Mein. Three Muses. New Orleans, Louisiana. 12.28.2023.

Spicy Chicken Deluxe Combo. Chick-fil-A. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.15.2023. (No photo.)

Chicken, Spinach & Artichoke Sandwich w/Broccoli. Town House Café. Harrison, Arkansas. 12.18.2023.

Vegetarian Shiitake Mushroom Burger. The Root Cafe. Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.12.2023.

Chicken Quesadilla w/Rice & Beans. Habana Outpost. New Orleans, Louisiana. 12.29.2023. (No photo.)

King’s Breakfast Bowl. Kingfish. New Orleans, Louisiana. 12.27.2023.

Seafood Lettuce Wraps. Landshark Bar & Grill. Branson, Missouri. 12.18.2023.

The Round-Up Pizza (to-go). Roper’s. Beebe, Arkansas. 12.9.2023.

Two Filet-O-Fish Sandwiches. McDonald’s. Lake Village, Arkansas. 12.26.2023.

Veggie Breakfast Burrito. Blackberry Market. North Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.12.2023.

Sashimi Plate w/Salad, Soup. Kanpai Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi. North Little Rock, Arkansas. 12.16.2023.

[thunderstruck9]

Charles White (American, 1918-1979, Children's Games II, 1976. Oil on paper mounted to board, 54 5/8 × 47 1/2 in. Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, Little Rock