Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

✨ Artist Highlight: Edmonia Lewis ✨ Edmonia Lewis broke barriers with her sculptures, blending classical Greek and Roman influences with powerful narratives on race and identity. As the daughter of a Chippewa (Ojibwa) mother and an African American father, she pursued education at Oberlin College, one of the first U.S. institutions open to African Americans, Native Americans, and women. Her journey led her to Rome, where she found a supportive community of American sculptors and opportunities unavailable to her in the U.S. There, she created groundbreaking works that continue to inspire today like “The Old Arrow Maker.” 🎥 Video from Tyson Think Tank 2024 🎨 Edmonia Lewis, “The Old Arrow Maker,” modeled 1866, carved ca. 1872, marble, 20 x 14 x 14 in. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2008.15. Photography by Edward C. Robison III.

“KAWS: FAMILY” tickets are on sale now 📣 Organized by the Art Gallery of Ontario this is KAWS’ Arkansas solo exhibition debut, featuring drawings, paintings, sculptures, advertising interventions, and product collaborations. We mean it when we say, you don’t want to miss this! Tap the link to reserve your tickets in advance, and be one of the firsts to experience “KAWS: FAMILY” opening March, 15: https://bit.ly/3XEuT1d 🎨 KAWS, “TAKE,” 2019. Bronze, paint. ©KAWS. 💡 KAWS: FAMILY is organized by the Art Gallery of Ontario and curated by Julian Cox, Deputy Director & Chief Curator, Art Gallery of Ontario. The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art presentation is curated by Alejo Benedetti.

History is complicated, especially when it comes to figures like Bass Reeves. From internet memes to family memories, the story of one of America’s most prolific law enforcement officers has been shaped by a mix of facts, fiction, and folklore. 🔍 Presented in partnership with the U.S. Marshals Museum in Ft. Smith, join Curator of Collections and Exhibits Dave Kennedy and Curator of American Art Mindy Besaw for an evening of “fact vs. fiction” as they explore the life of Bass Reeves on Thursday, January 23. Together, they’ll untangle the myths, legends, and truths surrounding his legacy in the historical record and popular culture. Reserve your tickets now: https://bit.ly/4gey6dI

This intricate beaded valise, created by Nellie Two Bear Gates, is much more than a practical object, it’s a work of art that weaves together stories of family, culture, and resilience. One side features scenes of Lakhota life, while the other depicts men roping cattle. These images may represent family members or symbolize the union of two families through marriage. Nellie’s approach to beadwork is truly unique. While figurative designs were traditionally created by men in her community, she redefined the art form, blending storytelling with movement and detail. At the same time, she honored the abstract designs rooted in her ancestors’ artistic traditions. Don’t miss “SUITCASE” in “Knowing the West” before it’s gone! Grab your tickets today: https://bit.ly/3L0LpRH 🧳 : Nellie Two Bear Gates (Iháƞktȟuƞwaƞna Dakhóta, Standing Rock Reservation), Suitcase, 1880-1910, bead, hide, oilcloth, thread, 12 1/2 in. x 17 11/16 in. x 10 1/4 in. Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minneapolis, MN. The Robert J. Ulrich Works of Art Purchase Fund. Photo: Minneapolis Institute of Art.

On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we reflect on Dr. King’s legacy of service and sacrifice, as well as the important work that lies ahead of us. Recently on view at the @brooklynmuseum, Elizabeth Catlett’s “Black Unity,” captures the essence of solidarity and resistance. On one side, a raised fist symbolizes strength and defiance. On the other, two abstracted faces merge into a single form, representing unity. Together, these elements reflect the belief that change is only possible through collective action. The year this sculpture was created, 1968, was a turning point in the civil rights movement. Dr. King’s assassination in Memphis shook the nation, even as progress continued with the signing of the Civil Rights Act by President Lyndon Johnson. That same year, athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a human rights gesture at the Summer Olympics, demonstrating the power of visible resistance. Catlett’s work remains a powerful reminder: equality is achievable when we stand together. 💡 “Black Unity,” will be traveling to @ngadc and @artinstitutechi. 🎨 Elizabeth Catlett, “Black Unity,” 1968, cedar. 21 in. × 12 1/2 in. × 23 in. (53.3 × 31.8 × 58.4 cm)

New Year, New Art 🙌 “Sharp Tongue, Deep Like an Artery” (2024) by Northern Cheyenne artist Jordan Ann Craig is now on view in our galleries. Her work forges new narratives and shares personal stories through abstraction, color, and rhythm, while taking Native American modernism to new heights. Drawing inspiration from Cheyenne beadwork, drawings, and textiles, Craig’s paintings and prints expand how we consider the history, context, and influence of Native American art. Symbolic of Northern Cheyenne design, Craig’s intricate compositions of repeated geometric shapes create a balanced perception of unifying symmetry. Her precise paint application honors the past – paying homage to the rigorous craftsmanship of Cheyenne design – while offering a glimpse into her personal experiences. This work is on view in “American Sunrise: Indigenous Art at Crystal Bridges” through March 23. 💡 Jordan Ann Craig, "Sharp Tongue, Deep Like an Artery," 2024, acrylic on canvas, 74 1/2 × 74 × 2 1/2 in. Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas, 2024.16. #AmericanSunriseCB #CrystalBridges

2024 was truly one for the books 🥂 a year filled with art, music, culinary experiences, unforgettable and inspiring moments, and so much more. This year wouldn’t have been possible without amazing community's support and our incredible staff. As we bid farewell to 2024, Crystal Bridges and The Momentary raise our glasses to you. Here’s to even more remarkable moments together in 2025 💫

Wishing you a joyful and restful holiday season, Northwest Arkansas 💙 We are closed today, Tuesday, December 24, and remain closed tomorrow, Wednesday, December 25, so our staff can spend time with friends and family. Normal hours resume Thursday, December 26. The trails and grounds are open everyday from sunrise to sunset. We look forward to your next visit! 🌟

Step into 2025 with Crystal Bridges and The Momentary. To kick off the year, we’re offering 25% off memberships—your key to a year of art, architecture, and nature. Here’s what you’ll unlock in 2025: ✨ Access to world-class art and special exhibitions ✨ Invitations to members-only previews and events ✨ Discounts on event tickets, shopping, and more Celebrate 2025 with us and make art a part of your new year’s journey. Offer ends January 27th join today: https://bit.ly/49tCmnt