If one wonders whether or not Eureka Springs is truly an art colony they need only to visit the Eureka Springs Artist Registry for proof. The registry, www.eurekaspringsartists.com, lists over one hundred local artists, shows samples of their work, and is a valuable link to area galleries and events. Participants can register free and for many it is an easy way to get on the web. The site allows art lovers to view work, receive contact information, and learn in what galleries their favorite artists are displayed.

The registry is the brainchild of Steve Schmidt who works constantly and with great expertise promoting area artisans. Besides the registry, Schmidt also sponsors the Eureka Springs Fall Art Fair held in the Inn of the Ozarks Convention Center the Saturday and Sunday after Thanksgiving. For the past two years the fair has featured more Eureka Springs' artists showing at any time in one location.

In addition, Steve working with the Crescent Hotel arranges art showings during the hotel's monthly wine tasting event. He has also arranged numerous displays and receptions in the Community First Bank with the help of his wife Tracey, an employee of the bank. Due to the Schmidt's involvement, Community First now has a permanent collection of locally produced paintings hanging throughout their building.

Steve also arranges monthly shows featuring local artists in Abetica, an upscale design shop in nearby Rogers, AR, owned by newly transplanted Californian Dan Stiel. Stiel is equally excited about Eureka's artists. In an effort to gain more exposure for registry participants, Steve and Dan will host an art fair in the Pinnacle Hills Promenade Shopping Mall in Rogers this Sept 8th and 9th.

Ladies take note: on the same weekend of the Promenade show the Ladies Professional Golf Association is hosting a tournament in the nearby Pinnacle Hills Country Club that will bring an estimated sixty thousand golf lovers to town.

Art, golf, cruising, who could ask for anything more!

Because of his love of art and a sincere desire to promote area talent, Eureka Springs artists could have no better friend than registry founder Steve Schmidt.

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