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Eureka Springs has been known as an art enclave since the 1930’s and the city’s art community in 2007 is more vibrant than ever. With a population of 2100 the city is home to more than 300 artists with many more artisans scattered among the surrounding hillsides.
Listed in the top 25 USA art destinations by American Style magazine, Eureka has more than 20 galleries, hosts a month long festival in May devoted to the arts, and is home to the Eureka Springs School of the Arts.
On the first Saturday of each month several galleries participate in a stroll showcasing works by featured artists. Not to be missed is the Eureka Springs Fall Art Fair the Saturday and Sunday after Thanksgiving held in the Convention Center of the Inn of the Ozarks. During this show patrons will find the largest gathering of the town’s artists under one roof than at any other time during the year.
“Art all over the place” is evident from the four by eight foot paintings beautifying a parking lot known as the Artery, to the Artists Colony on North Main Street, to an array of painted benches in downtown’s Basin Park. It is not unusual to see painters set up on the streets creating works depicting the town’s charm and beauty.
The art community, as might be expected, has many “family” members who add to the richness and vitality of the creative atmosphere. Many gay and lesbian artists create work as painters, sculptors, photographers, jewelers, and potters. The creative drive, whether it be to make a statement, make a living, or just to make something pretty, forges a bond in the enclave of artists that seemingly goes beyond many differences and divisions found in the population at large.
It is truly a “family” within a “family” where all are accepted and this acceptance sets a standard as a model for society. Sharing a spirit of creativity and common purpose leads to dialog, support, and understanding.
Art brings kindred spirits together. Art transcends. Art is Love.
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