Culture Bit: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

November 11, 2011 marked an important day for the art community, and more importantly (to me at least) the Bentonville, Arkansas community.  The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is finally open to the public (and admission is free!)

This museum will drastically change the local community.  One of the most profound effects in my opinion will be through its' Education program.  Alice Walton has shown her passion for education and for the region and this beautiful facility will greatly enhance both.  Through a grant from the Walton Family Foundation, school groups will now be able to organize field trips at no cost and have lunch provided by the Museum.

The effect that the art will have on how these children view art and their own local environments cannot be measured.  I know that growing up in New York City, viewing art at Museums was a "have to" as my family took several trips every year.  I like to think this has broadened and changed the way I view my world for the better.

The opening sequence of events included several invitation only soirees, a Members Preview, and the opening ceremonies in conjunction with Veteran's Day recognition in Downtown Bentonville on the Square.  It has been a very exciting week, and I imagine that Crystal Bridges will only bring more excitement and pizzazz to an already cheerful and growing community.

This video was shown on the Bentonville Square at the opening ceremonies and I thought it very fun.


We're Glad You're Here from Crystal Bridges on Vimeo.

Note: I have noticed a lot of media has been condemning the name "Crystal Bridges" as boring, etc.  It is important to note that this Museum and construction of the Museum greatly values the land and unique environment in which it is.  The landscaping uses only indigenous plants and only 6 ft was excavated around the perimeter of the Museum to keep the environment intact.  The water that flows under the bridges of the Museum comes from "Crystal Springs" located north of the Museum on the property.  Perhaps people will think differently of the name when they know this history behind the project.

If you are interested in more information about events in Downtown Bentonville you can follow the twitter @DBIncEvents or the downtown association's facebook for updates.

UPDATE:  Bentonville was ranked one of the "Hottest Travel Destinations of 2012" by Travel & Leisure Magazine, the only place located in the USA of the top 12!