Home to over 400 talented working artists, it is no wonder Eureka Springs was voted one of the Top 25 Arts Destinations in the nation. The beauty of the Ozark Mountains has made Eureka Springs a destination for artists since the 1800’s. Each May, Eureka Springs hosts the May Festival of the Arts. This month long celebration of art and artists includes the ArtRageous Parade, gallery walks, artist receptions and other special events.
Not all of the Eureka Springs art hangs in a store. The Art Wall, located at one North Main in downtown Eureka Springs is an open-air gallery displaying four foot by eight foot murals designed by local artists. With pieces being sold and new murals being brought in, the Wall is always changing. Visit Eureka Springs Art Wall homepage for more information on the artists and how to own a piece of the featured art. A portion of all proceeds go to a nonprofit account that is used to help create more art for the public and promote student art opportunities.
From April to December on the second Saturday of each month, Eureka Springs hosts the 2nd Saturday Gallery Stroll. The galleries along Spring Street and surrounding areas host special shows and artist receptions from 6:00-9:00pm. Representing over 1000 artists, items on display include gold and silver jewelry, glass, paintings, wood, ceramics and much more. Admission is free of charge.
While you are exploring the more than twenty art galleries Eureka Springs has to offer, be sure to stop by Mud Street Cafe to re-charge with a cup of coffee or espresso. The setting of this local favorite is in a building from 1888 complete with limestone walls and stain-glassed lighting. While enjoying a hot cup of freshly ground coffee at the stunning turn of the century oak bar with beveled mirrors, be sure to check out the local art featured throughout the café. The café offers breakfast and lunch and is open from 8:00am to 3:00pm. They close for business on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Whether you are an aspiring artist or a beginner looking to take a class with the pros, The Eureka Springs School of the Arts will be hosting fall workshops beginning in September. These workshops will give students the opportunity to work with artists on a variety of skills including landscape art, watercolor and oil painting and even a class on basket weaving. Eureka Springs School of the Arts is a non-profit organization that offers art classes and workshops in support of art education in Northwest Arkansas.
While you are in town, be sure to check out the historic Arsenic and Old Lace Bed and Breakfast. Tucked away in the beautiful Ozarks in the Historic District of Eureka Springs, this Queen Anne Victorian mansion offers luxurious rooms with mountain views. Click here to view the many specials and packages being offered to help you plan your getaway. Just two blocks from The Loop, you will be able to enjoy a short walk to the many galleries, dining , shopping and Eureka Springs art the town has to offer.
Photo Courtesy of Jacob.Bolm
