Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is now open in Bentonville, Arkansas. This beautiful museum was founded by Alice Walton, Walmart heiress. Acclaimed as a “World Class Museum” by the Washington Post, Crystal Bridges has amassed an impressive collection of American Art. A few notable pieces are Gilbert Stuart’s “George Washington”, Asher Brown Durand’s “Kindred Spirits”, and Norman Rockwell’s painting of Rosie the Riveter.
Along with beautiful art pieces, the building itself is also beautiful. Twelve galleries, located in four buildings were designed by Boston architect Moshe Safdie, and include native Arkansas materials. The buildings surround two large pools fed by Crystal Spring. There are also six trails crossing the 120 acres of the museum and include exterior sculptures as well.
Recently, Crystal Bridges announced a four-year traveling art exhibit that will partner them with The Louvre in Paris, High Museum of Art in Atlanta, and Terra Foundation of American Art in Chicago. The exhibit began January 2012 at The Louvre, and travels to Crystal Bridges from May 12, 2012 to August 13, 2012.
Thanks to the Walmart Stores Inc. Foundation, admission for everyone will be free for the first five years. If your Hot Springs Arkansas travel journey takes you through northwest Arkansas, be sure to allow time for a stop at Crystal Bridges. The museum is located at 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, and is open Wednesday through Monday (closed Tuesdays).