Spring is one of the best times to experience Bentonville’s vibrant arts and outdoor scene! In this episode, we’re joined by an expert from Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art and The Momentary to talk about the ultimate ways to enjoy the season—from art-filled nature trails to live music performances, seasonal exhibits like "KAWS:FAMILY," and immersive experiences. Whether you're a local or planning a visit, this is your guide to making the most of spring in Bentonville!
🌿 Plan your visit:
🎨 Crystal Bridges: crystalbridges.org
🎭 The Momentary: themomentary.org
A New American Town is here to help you plan your trip to Bentonville, Arkansas. From guides, events, and restaurant highlights. Find all this and more at visitbentonville.com and subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn.
You can listen to this podcast on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, CastBox, Podcast Casts, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and Podcast Addict.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Natalie Stika (00:10):
Welcome to New American Town.
I'm Natalie with VisitBentonville and today I'm joined
by Michelle Moore from CrystalBridges and the Momentary, one
of Bentonville's mainattractions.
Crystal Bridges Museum ofAmerican Art has thousands of
American art pieces, stunningarchitecture and 120 acres of
Ozark nature and generaladmission is always free.
(00:30):
The Momentary is known as aplatform for today's art, food
and music and an extension ofCrystal Bridges that's focused
on connecting communities andyou to great experiences.
Today we're covering all thereis to know about visiting these
attractions this spring, fromart, nature and special insights
to the must-attend events atthe museum.
Thank you so much for joiningus today, michelle.
Michelle Moore (00:53):
Thank you for having me.
I'm excited to be here.
Natalie Stika (00:56):
Yeah, before we dive in, can you share a little
bit about your role at CrystalBridges in the Momentary and
what drew you to this incredibleinstitution?
Michelle Moore (01:02):
Of course, I am the Associate Director of Public
Relations for Crystal Bridgesin the Momentary and what drew
you to this incredibleinstitution?
Of course, I am the AssociateDirector of Public Relations for
Crystal Bridges in theMomentary.
It's a very exciting job.
I've been doing PR for myentire career and I got the
wonderful opportunity to do itfor Crystal Bridges almost two
years ago and I couldn't say no.
I could not say no to thebeautiful, beautiful space, all
(01:24):
of the wonderful art.
I couldn't say no to the trailsand grounds, the beauty of the
Ozarks, and I really couldn'tsay no to the opportunity to
work with some up-and-comingartists and also a lot of
well-known artists.
That's been the most fantasticpart about this.
Natalie Stika (01:39):
Oh, yeah, yeah, because the Momentary has been
bringing some incredible musichere just in the recent history,
right.
Michelle Moore (01:47):
Oh yeah, the Momentary is really becoming a
premier music destination and Ireally love that.
We support up-and-comingartists, growing artists, folks
that maybe people in townhaven't heard of, but we spend
just as much time supporting andlifting up well-known artists,
making sure they sell ticketsand come to a place like this
(02:07):
and perform for our communityyeah, and the coolest part is
you guys have all genres I do.
Natalie Stika (02:12):
I had some.
I ran into someone the otherday and they're like I'm so
excited there's a rock bandtonight at the momentary.
I didn't know they did rockbecause you guys have jazz, you
have folk, you have edm rock.
So many different types ofmusic.
It's really exciting it isheavy metal.
Michelle Moore (02:26):
Lots of EDM we have a big EDM audience here in
town.
Hip hop we just announcedGlorilla, who's an up and coming
sort of hip hop star, and Iknow she's going to be a legend.
So yeah, we cross all genres.
If you like it, we will have itat the Momentary.
Natalie Stika (02:42):
That's cool.
Did you live here before yourjob?
Michelle Moore (02:46):
I didn't live here.
I moved here from New Orleans,which is very different, very
different pace, but I'm reallyenjoying everything that
Arkansas has to offer.
It's a very beautiful statewith seasons, and I can spend a
lot of time outdoors, which is alittle bit harder in New
Orleans, which is sort ofsweltering summer year round.
Natalie Stika (03:07):
Yeah, yeah, a big part of Crystal Bridges is the
outdoor grounds, and can youtell me a little bit more about
the urban forest and how itreally is just so special?
Michelle Moore (03:19):
Of course, when I learned about Bentonville and
Arkansas, you know I was drawnto the museum.
I don't think I had any ideaabout how beautiful the outdoors
would also be.
I knew Arkansas was called thenatural state, but I didn't
really understand how gorgeousit was until I got here.
Acres, yes, a ton of land, abeautiful forest, and it's
(03:50):
beautiful in the summer and alsoin the winter, even when it's
covered in snow and ice.
It's so gorgeous, but itespecially comes to life in the
springtime and that's what I'mlooking forward to seeing again
this year, my second year herein town.
Natalie Stika (04:00):
We know you want to hear all the local secrets
when you visit Bentonville, sostay to the end to hear all of
Michelle's favorite parts aboutBentonville and what you can
experience the next time youcome.
So so magical.
Right now Some blooms are juststarting to pop up.
What is, what would youdescribe, the experience of
visiting Crystal Bridges, andwhy does it make it so different
(04:21):
?
Michelle Moore (04:21):
It's definitely like we've been talking about
the outdoors is what's sospecial.
The architecture, along withthe nature, makes it such a
premier experience before youeven step inside the actual
museum.
We have these grounds, whichare also covered in art.
There are lots of sculpturesoutside on our art trail and the
(04:43):
North Forest Trail, and I wantto make sure people who see the
museum don't forget to visitthat.
There are some beautifulsculptures that you don't want
to miss.
We have a Louise Bourgeoisspider, a giant spider called
Maman.
It is one of 11 spiders thatLouise Bourgeois created and
(05:03):
they're situated around theworld and we have the only one
of that size here in the UnitedStates at Crystal Bridges, which
is fantastic.
We also have some beautifulsculptures by Yayoi Kosama, and
we recently got some flowers bythe artists installed on our
trails and they're gorgeousbright colors, polka dots.
(05:25):
They're fun.
They're perfect for Instagram.
Come out, take your picturewith the flowers among the real
flowers that are going to bloomin the spring.
Natalie Stika (05:33):
Yeah, those flowers went in in the middle of
winter and, seeing themjuxtaposed to the darkness and
how bright they are, it was sointeresting and exciting to see
the promise of spring and, nowthat it's coming, them situated
around the flowers that are nowreally blooming it's really
exciting.
Yeah, the art is just theoutdoor public art.
Obviously, the art at CrystalBridges is phenomenal, but the
(05:55):
outdoor art is really hidden andpeople forget about it a lot of
times.
When you think of an art museum, it's not common for an art
museum to be covered in a forestand it's an Arboretum.
Now correct, it is an.
Michelle Moore (06:09):
Arboretum.
Yeah, and we're excited becausewe're going to celebrate.
You know, April is Earth Monthand we'll also celebrate Earth
Day and Arbor Day, so we willhave lots.
Please check the CrystalBridges website.
We're going to have a slew ofevents to celebrate the nature
that surrounds us, to celebrateEarth Day and to celebrate the
(06:30):
fact that we are an arboretum.
It's going to be beautiful whenit starts to bloom and we'll
have lots of events that sort ofcelebrate the outdoors and our
trails and grounds.
Natalie Stika (06:39):
That's awesome, kind of switching back over to
the momentary for a little bit.
Describe the experience of theMomentary, especially what
people can expect this spring.
Michelle Moore (06:48):
The momentary is also quite beautiful.
I think people only think aboutnature as it relates to Crystal
Bridges, but the Momentary alsohas a beautiful outdoor area,
particularly a large sprawlinggreen lawn which is where we
host our Live on the Green musicseries and we're going to kick
(07:13):
that off again this year.
That will run roughly fromApril through the end of October
.
We're kicking off with analready sold out performance by
Megan Maroney in April.
Natalie Stika (07:18):
I know everyone's excited.
Michelle Moore (07:20):
Such a big deal for us and we're going to have
lots of concerts therethroughout the spring and summer
and fall, so there's alsosomething to do outside at the
Momentary too.
Natalie Stika (07:29):
Yeah, If people are coming in for that concert
specifically because it sold outsuper quickly, what are some
tips that you could give themfor experiencing what all the
Momentary has to offer?
Michelle Moore (07:39):
Well, we have the concerts outdoors on the
green at the Momentary.
We also have concerts indoorsat the Momentary, in the
Roadhouse, which is a muchsmaller venue, but it is a very,
very special place to see livemusic.
The sound in there isphenomenal and that's where we
sort of host a lot of lesserknown artists who are on the
rise.
So everyone should check theMomentary's website and see
(08:00):
who's playing in the Roadhouse.
We have concerts therethroughout the entire year known
artists who are on the rise.
So everyone should check theMomentary's website and see
who's playing in the Roadhouse.
We have concerts therethroughout the entire year.
We also have galleries indoorsso you can throughout the year.
You can always come into ourgalleries at the Momentary.
They are free and open to thepublic all the time and you can
see what art we have up therenow.
(08:20):
Right now there's Best in Show,which is a cute exhibition with
pet photography.
But we have some coolexhibitions coming in May that
will focus on more photography,but it'll be photography of
musicians.
We'll have an exhibition withphotographs featuring Johnny
Cash performing prison concerts,so that's exciting.
(08:40):
And then we'll also have anexhibition featuring photography
of lots of different artists byone photographer who spent the
majority of his careerphotographing musicians.
Natalie Stika (08:51):
That is wonderful , I love.
I'm so, so excited to see thatnew exhibition at the Momentary
coming in May.
All of the ones that you guyshave are so special because you
specifically highlightcontemporary art all of the time
in the Momentary, correct?
Michelle Moore (09:05):
We do we always have contemporary art and
probably an artist or maybe sortof lots of photography that you
haven't really been exposed toyet.
So there's a lot of new thingsyou can learn when you come to
the momentary.
Something really special that'shappening in May at the
momentary is that we will havean exhibition of Johnny Cash
(09:27):
photographs in our galleries andthen we are also going to have
his daughter, Roseanne Cash,performing at Fresh Grass at the
Momentary May 16th and 17th.
So that's going to be a nicesort of connection for us.
Natalie Stika (09:41):
Yeah, that will be so special.
Wow, what are some otherseasonal highlights that people
can look forward to this springat both campuses?
Michelle Moore (09:50):
At the momentary we host a few different
festivals.
As I mentioned, we'll hostFresh Grass May 16th and 17th,
outside on the green, and folkswill also be able to come inside
in the galleries.
We also host Holi, which is abig celebration of spring.
That's a great colorfulfestival that we host every year
(10:11):
at the momentary.
That will take place in April.
Those are two very funfestivals.
The weather's still pretty nice, it's not too hot yet.
We encourage everybody to comeout.
And then at Crystal Bridges wewill be hosting lots of the same
types of things lots ofcelebrations for spring, lots to
do outdoors while the weatheris nice.
You can bike or walk the trailsbefore you come inside the
(10:33):
galleries and see what we havegoing on there.
Natalie Stika (10:35):
Yeah, how would you recommend people experience
all that Crystal Bridges has tooffer when they come visit?
Michelle Moore (10:41):
That's such a hard one Spend more than one day
with us Because there's so muchto see and so much to do.
Right now, Crystal Bridges Isundergoing our big expansion
project and while we'reexpanding we're sort of focused
on revolutionizing the waypeople experience art inside
(11:02):
museums.
And the fun part about thisexpansion is that we're
transforming our galleries soour visitors who stop by over
the next year or so will be ableto see as we move art and
transform into this newexperience.
But while we're doing that, ourvisitors can also come and KAWS
Family, which is our latestspecial exhibition at Crystal
(11:24):
Bridges.
Natalie Stika (11:24):
Tell us more about KAWS.
It is wonderful.
I had the joy of seeing it overthe last couple weekends and
it's something like we've neverhad before.
Michelle Moore (11:35):
I would agree.
I am aware of the sort of artthat has come into Crystal
Bridges and the Momentary overthe last few years and I think
this is probably something brandnew for the museum and for the
community something brand newfor the museum and for the
community and it's a very, veryexciting exhibition.
Kaws is a very hip pop artistwho creates iconic characters
(12:00):
and figures and paintings.
He got his start in the 90sdoing a lot of street art and he
was here with us last week aswe opened the exhibition.
It was so fun to have an artistlike him in town to give us a
special tour of the exhibition.
I think it's great for families.
It's titled Family.
It sort of explores humanemotions and connections.
(12:24):
Fun for everyone of all ages.
It's colorful, it's bright.
Kids will sort of have aneye-opening experience, but I
think parents will love it too.
Natalie Stika (12:36):
Yeah, there's a familiarity there for anyone
that goes and sees it, becausethere are so many familiar
characters that he has kind ofreimagined.
He's worked with several brands, which is kind of originally
how I knew KAWS.
He's worked with several brands, which is kind of originally
how I knew KAWS.
And to see his work displayedit was awing to me that he
painted it.
It looks like graphic designand he even called that out.
(12:57):
We're so used to seeing graphicdesign nowadays that to even
think that his beautifulpaintings with so much precision
was done by hand and that wasso special.
I would love if everyone justknew that going in a lot of
people.
If they don't read, they won'tknow that.
Michelle Moore (13:14):
They won't know that, that he created these
things by hand, and I love whathe said about his paintings, and
I feel like the ones we have atCrystal Bridges are these deep
cuts, works that people wouldn'tnecessarily even know are his,
and he did them many years ago,so it's nice to see those with
the sculptures which he's a bitmore known for.
(13:36):
But you can come in and seesketches and bright paintings
and to know that he did it byhand on this large scale is
pretty phenomenal.
He's an amazing artist.
Natalie Stika (13:46):
Yeah, throughout the museum and the grounds, of
course there's so much art.
Yeah, throughout the museum andthe grounds, of course there's
so much art, and that's theheart and soul of Crystal
Bridges.
But what other can't missexperiences should people be
looking into?
Michelle Moore (13:59):
So when people visit Crystal Bridges as we are
working to transform thegalleries for the expansion,
things are going to look alittle different.
We're going to be moving artaround but we're going to still
have a lot of iconic artworks ondisplay.
We're going to be moving somecontemporary artworks like Our
Town by Kerry James Marshall,which is a big one, to our
(14:20):
earlier galleries so it canremain on view.
We'll have iconic works likeRosie the Riveter by Norman
Rockwell.
Our very, very popular GeorgiaO'Keeffe painting will be up
still so people can still comein and see these iconic works
while the galleries are movingaround.
They'll just be in differentspaces while on view.
(14:41):
And then KAWS will be on viewthrough July 28th and we'll have
another temporary exhibitioncome up called Get in the Game,
which will be a very funsports-related exhibition later
this fall, and that'll beanother temporary exhibition
come up called Get in the Game,which will be a very fun sports
related exhibition later thisfall, and that'll be on view as
we continue to transform thegalleries too.
Natalie Stika (14:55):
Yeah, are you guys going to continue to have,
like, the cocktail tours,evenings at 11 and some
makerspace activities?
Michelle Moore (15:04):
Absolutely.
We will always be celebratingart through our events at
Crystal Bridges all the time,week-long events.
The cocktail tours at CrystalBridges are really fun.
They are themed cocktail tours.
If you sign up for one of those, you can learn to make a very
cool cocktail.
You'll drink it, of course, andthen you'll get a nice tour of
the galleries following that.
(15:24):
We also have our WOW dinners,wednesdays Over Water, which are
the same sort of theme.
They are related or connectedto an artwork or an exhibition
in the galleries.
You'll eat a meal and hear froma chef who created it and also
learn a little bit more aboutwhatever the art focus is, and
you can explore the galleriesafter the meal as well.
There's always going to be artmaking.
(15:46):
We have family fun days wherekids can come in and make art
art, but adults can come andmake art in our studio as well.
Uh, the best thing to do ischeck the Crystal Bridges
website, because there's alwaysso much going on and you don't
want to miss it yeah, um, Ithink you can't go wrong with
any of these experiences atCrystal Bridges.
Natalie Stika (16:05):
Have you been able to participate in any of
them?
Michelle Moore (16:08):
yes, actually actually I have, and it's been
like a joy.
I just went to a Wednesday'sover water at Crystal Bridges
and that was such a fun time.
It was in honor of BlackHistory Month and we had a guest
chef and really just acelebration of the culture and
also Black art and artists andthat was great for community
(16:28):
members to come in town andenjoy.
I really loved it.
I've also done a cocktail tour,which is also very fun.
It's an adult evening out, it'sgreat for date night and we
have Supper Club, which happensat the momentary.
Natalie Stika (16:44):
So new?
Tell us more.
I really love that you guys aredoing this.
No, I want to go so bad youshould go.
Michelle Moore (16:50):
Those are happening, like our Wednesdays
Overwater at Crystal Bridges,but supper clubs are a bit more
casual and family style and theyare also happening once a month
at the momentary and we'rebringing in a guest chef for
those as well.
A different guest chef everymonth, different guest chef
every month.
It's a beautiful setup, a longtable so everyone can sit
(17:10):
together, enjoy conversationstogether and celebrate community
and good food and talk to oneanother, make friends or just
have a good time with your oldfriends.
You should come.
Natalie Stika (17:26):
Yeah, I need to.
There's just so much goodness.
I feel like both CrystalBridges and the Momentary are so
vital in our culture incommunity, whether you're a
local or a visitor, and it's sohard to put into words and I
love hearing from you about it.
But why do you think that thathas happened and you guys are
set?
Michelle Moore (17:38):
you guys are the heartbeat of Ben, I would say
that is like exactly what a PRperson wants to hear.
So, yes, thank you, job done.
I like to think I loveheartbeat.
I also think of Crystal Bridgesand the Momentary as an anchor.
I think they are both verygrounding spaces for the
community.
I've never seen anything likeit.
(18:00):
It's a wonderful feeling towork in a space that celebrates
art and artists and that thecommunity also feels so welcome
to Like.
We are truly making art andsort of premier educational and
inspiring experiences.
We are really making that apart of life for the everyday
(18:24):
Arkansan or sort of Heartlandcommunity member, and I'm glad
that people feel so welcomed andhappy to join us all the time.
I don't know that museumsacross America always feel like
welcoming, energizing spaces,but Crystal Bridge is in the
Momentary.
We truly are doing that workand I can see it when the
(18:45):
community comes by and spendstime with us over and over and
over again.
Natalie Stika (18:49):
Yeah, yeah, it over again.
Yeah, yeah, it's beautiful.
Yeah, what is your personalfavorite thing about the city of
Bentonville?
Michelle Moore (18:56):
Oh, wow.
Well, definitely the outdoors.
I love the nature.
I love being able to get tospend time outside and seeing
the seasons change.
Being from the deep south, Idid not experience seasons.
I'm from the swamp.
It's one season year round.
It is beautiful to see theseasons change outside here in
(19:17):
Bentonville and NorthwestArkansas.
I also am like pleasantlysurprised by the beautiful music
, art and food scene.
There's a lot of culturehappening here and that's
surprising, but I'm also likevery happy and excited to
experience it every weekend whenI'm off from work.
(19:37):
It's a great part of my life.
Natalie Stika (19:40):
I love that For someone planning their first
visit.
What are some pro tips that youhave?
Michelle Moore (19:46):
It's a beautiful weekend getaway here in
Bentonville and I like to saythat it's perfect for lovers and
even people who are expandingtheir family.
Come for your baby moon, comeand just enjoy time with your
partner.
See a show at the momentary,have dinner somewhere great like
(20:07):
Barclita -is my favorite andalso come to Crystal Bridges,
walk outside and walk inside thegalleries.
It's the perfect thing to hitfor weekend fun.
I'm always traveling that waywith my partner.
We like to take weekend tripswhere we go to a museum, we see
a show and we eat really goodfood, and this is a great place
(20:30):
to do that.
Yeah, make traveling casual.
Natalie Stika (20:32):
We love that.
Michelle Moore (20:32):
Yeah, we love it .
Natalie Stika (20:34):
Well, for people that want to get connected to
Crystal Bridges, you can go tocrystalbridgesorg to learn more,
or the momentaryorg.
Follow them on social media atCrystal Bridges Museum or the
Momentary.
And do you want to tell us alittle bit more about your
membership program?
Michelle Moore (20:48):
Yes, I always tell people you can check our
websites and you can follow uson social media.
But another fantastic way toget involved with us is to
become a member.
Members at Crystal Bridges andthe Momentary get all types of
great perks, but the biggest oneis early access to tickets for
events, including our bigconcerts, and also discounted
(21:11):
tickets to big events at CrystalBridges in the Momentary,
including the concerts.
You'll know it first.
If you are a member, you willget an email before anyone else
does and you'll get sort ofdiscounts and exclusive benefits
to enjoy as a member to bothspaces, especially if you're
here in town or also even ifyou're just a short drive away.
(21:31):
Become a member If you're goingto come and see us over and
over again.
There really are some greatbenefits to that and a great way
to stay involved in thecommunity.
Natalie Stika (21:39):
Awesome.
Well, that is a wrap fortoday's episode.
If you're planning a trip toBentonville, be sure to check
out these incredible spaces andeverything that Crystal Bridges
in the Momentary has to offer,especially in the spring.
Thanks for tuning in and don'tforget to follow us on social
media at Visit Bentonville, signup for our newsletter and learn
more about our new Americantown.
Thanks so much, Michelle.
Welcome to New American Town.
I'm Natalie with VisitBentonville and today I'm joined
by Michelle Moore from CrystalBridges and the Momentary, one
of Bentonville's mainattractions.
Crystal Bridges Museum ofAmerican Art has thousands of
American art pieces, stunningarchitecture and 120 acres of
Ozark nature and generaladmission is always free.
(00:30):
The Momentary is known as aplatform for today's art, food
and music and an extension ofCrystal Bridges that's focused
on connecting communities andyou to great experiences.
Today we're covering all thereis to know about visiting these
attractions this spring, fromart, nature and special insights
to the must-attend events atthe museum.
Thank you so much for joiningus today, michelle.
Michelle Moore (00:53):
Thank you for having me.
I'm excited to be here.
Natalie Stika (00:56):
Yeah, before we dive in, can you share a little
bit about your role at CrystalBridges in the Momentary and
what drew you to this incredibleinstitution?
Michelle Moore (01:02):
Of course, I am the Associate Director of Public
Relations for Crystal Bridgesin the Momentary and what drew
you to this incredibleinstitution?
Of course, I am the AssociateDirector of Public Relations for
Crystal Bridges in theMomentary.
It's a very exciting job.
I've been doing PR for myentire career and I got the
wonderful opportunity to do itfor Crystal Bridges almost two
years ago and I couldn't say no.
I could not say no to thebeautiful, beautiful space, all
(01:24):
of the wonderful art.
I couldn't say no to the trailsand grounds, the beauty of the
Ozarks, and I really couldn'tsay no to the opportunity to
work with some up-and-comingartists and also a lot of
well-known artists.
That's been the most fantasticpart about this.
Natalie Stika (01:39):
Oh, yeah, yeah, because the Momentary has been
bringing some incredible musichere just in the recent history,
right.
Michelle Moore (01:47):
Oh yeah, the Momentary is really becoming a
premier music destination and Ireally love that.
We support up-and-comingartists, growing artists, folks
that maybe people in townhaven't heard of, but we spend
just as much time supporting andlifting up well-known artists,
making sure they sell ticketsand come to a place like this
(02:07):
and perform for our communityyeah, and the coolest part is
you guys have all genres I do.
Natalie Stika (02:12):
I had some.
I ran into someone the otherday and they're like I'm so
excited there's a rock bandtonight at the momentary.
I didn't know they did rockbecause you guys have jazz, you
have folk, you have edm rock.
So many different types ofmusic.
It's really exciting it isheavy metal.
Michelle Moore (02:26):
Lots of EDM we have a big EDM audience here in
town.
Hip hop we just announcedGlorilla, who's an up and coming
sort of hip hop star, and Iknow she's going to be a legend.
So yeah, we cross all genres.
If you like it, we will have itat the Momentary.
Natalie Stika (02:42):
That's cool.
Did you live here before yourjob?
Michelle Moore (02:46):
I didn't live here.
I moved here from New Orleans,which is very different, very
different pace, but I'm reallyenjoying everything that
Arkansas has to offer.
It's a very beautiful statewith seasons, and I can spend a
lot of time outdoors, which is alittle bit harder in New
Orleans, which is sort ofsweltering summer year round.
Natalie Stika (03:07):
Yeah, yeah, a big part of Crystal Bridges is the
outdoor grounds, and can youtell me a little bit more about
the urban forest and how itreally is just so special?
Michelle Moore (03:19):
Of course, when I learned about Bentonville and
Arkansas, you know I was drawnto the museum.
I don't think I had any ideaabout how beautiful the outdoors
would also be.
I knew Arkansas was called thenatural state, but I didn't
really understand how gorgeousit was until I got here.
Acres, yes, a ton of land, abeautiful forest, and it's
(03:50):
beautiful in the summer and alsoin the winter, even when it's
covered in snow and ice.
It's so gorgeous, but itespecially comes to life in the
springtime and that's what I'mlooking forward to seeing again
this year, my second year herein town.
Natalie Stika (04:00):
We know you want to hear all the local secrets
when you visit Bentonville, sostay to the end to hear all of
Michelle's favorite parts aboutBentonville and what you can
experience the next time youcome.
So so magical.
Right now Some blooms are juststarting to pop up.
What is, what would youdescribe, the experience of
visiting Crystal Bridges, andwhy does it make it so different
(04:21):
?
Michelle Moore (04:21):
It's definitely like we've been talking about
the outdoors is what's sospecial.
The architecture, along withthe nature, makes it such a
premier experience before youeven step inside the actual
museum.
We have these grounds, whichare also covered in art.
There are lots of sculpturesoutside on our art trail and the
(04:43):
North Forest Trail, and I wantto make sure people who see the
museum don't forget to visitthat.
There are some beautifulsculptures that you don't want
to miss.
We have a Louise Bourgeoisspider, a giant spider called
Maman.
It is one of 11 spiders thatLouise Bourgeois created and
(05:03):
they're situated around theworld and we have the only one
of that size here in the UnitedStates at Crystal Bridges, which
is fantastic.
We also have some beautifulsculptures by Yayoi Kosama, and
we recently got some flowers bythe artists installed on our
trails and they're gorgeousbright colors, polka dots.
(05:25):
They're fun.
They're perfect for Instagram.
Come out, take your picturewith the flowers among the real
flowers that are going to bloomin the spring.
Natalie Stika (05:33):
Yeah, those flowers went in in the middle of
winter and, seeing themjuxtaposed to the darkness and
how bright they are, it was sointeresting and exciting to see
the promise of spring and, nowthat it's coming, them situated
around the flowers that are nowreally blooming it's really
exciting.
Yeah, the art is just theoutdoor public art.
Obviously, the art at CrystalBridges is phenomenal, but the
(05:55):
outdoor art is really hidden andpeople forget about it a lot of
times.
When you think of an art museum, it's not common for an art
museum to be covered in a forestand it's an Arboretum.
Now correct, it is an.
Michelle Moore (06:09):
Arboretum.
Yeah, and we're excited becausewe're going to celebrate.
You know, April is Earth Monthand we'll also celebrate Earth
Day and Arbor Day, so we willhave lots.
Please check the CrystalBridges website.
We're going to have a slew ofevents to celebrate the nature
that surrounds us, to celebrateEarth Day and to celebrate the
(06:30):
fact that we are an arboretum.
It's going to be beautiful whenit starts to bloom and we'll
have lots of events that sort ofcelebrate the outdoors and our
trails and grounds.
Natalie Stika (06:39):
That's awesome, kind of switching back over to
the momentary for a little bit.
Describe the experience of theMomentary, especially what
people can expect this spring.
Michelle Moore (06:48):
The momentary is also quite beautiful.
I think people only think aboutnature as it relates to Crystal
Bridges, but the Momentary alsohas a beautiful outdoor area,
particularly a large sprawlinggreen lawn which is where we
host our Live on the Green musicseries and we're going to kick
(07:13):
that off again this year.
That will run roughly fromApril through the end of October
.
We're kicking off with analready sold out performance by
Megan Maroney in April.
Natalie Stika (07:18):
I know everyone's excited.
Michelle Moore (07:20):
Such a big deal for us and we're going to have
lots of concerts therethroughout the spring and summer
and fall, so there's alsosomething to do outside at the
Momentary too.
Natalie Stika (07:29):
Yeah, If people are coming in for that concert
specifically because it sold outsuper quickly, what are some
tips that you could give themfor experiencing what all the
Momentary has to offer?
Michelle Moore (07:39):
Well, we have the concerts outdoors on the
green at the Momentary.
We also have concerts indoorsat the Momentary, in the
Roadhouse, which is a muchsmaller venue, but it is a very,
very special place to see livemusic.
The sound in there isphenomenal and that's where we
sort of host a lot of lesserknown artists who are on the
rise.
So everyone should check theMomentary's website and see
(08:00):
who's playing in the Roadhouse.
We have concerts therethroughout the entire year known
artists who are on the rise.
So everyone should check theMomentary's website and see
who's playing in the Roadhouse.
We have concerts therethroughout the entire year.
We also have galleries indoorsso you can throughout the year.
You can always come into ourgalleries at the Momentary.
They are free and open to thepublic all the time and you can
see what art we have up therenow.
(08:20):
Right now there's Best in Show,which is a cute exhibition with
pet photography.
But we have some coolexhibitions coming in May that
will focus on more photography,but it'll be photography of
musicians.
We'll have an exhibition withphotographs featuring Johnny
Cash performing prison concerts,so that's exciting.
(08:40):
And then we'll also have anexhibition featuring photography
of lots of different artists byone photographer who spent the
majority of his careerphotographing musicians.
Natalie Stika (08:51):
That is wonderful , I love.
I'm so, so excited to see thatnew exhibition at the Momentary
coming in May.
All of the ones that you guyshave are so special because you
specifically highlightcontemporary art all of the time
in the Momentary, correct?
Michelle Moore (09:05):
We do we always have contemporary art and
probably an artist or maybe sortof lots of photography that you
haven't really been exposed toyet.
So there's a lot of new thingsyou can learn when you come to
the momentary.
Something really special that'shappening in May at the
momentary is that we will havean exhibition of Johnny Cash
(09:27):
photographs in our galleries andthen we are also going to have
his daughter, Roseanne Cash,performing at Fresh Grass at the
Momentary May 16th and 17th.
So that's going to be a nicesort of connection for us.
Natalie Stika (09:41):
Yeah, that will be so special.
Wow, what are some otherseasonal highlights that people
can look forward to this springat both campuses?
Michelle Moore (09:50):
At the momentary we host a few different
festivals.
As I mentioned, we'll hostFresh Grass May 16th and 17th,
outside on the green, and folkswill also be able to come inside
in the galleries.
We also host Holi, which is abig celebration of spring.
That's a great colorfulfestival that we host every year
(10:11):
at the momentary.
That will take place in April.
Those are two very funfestivals.
The weather's still pretty nice, it's not too hot yet.
We encourage everybody to comeout.
And then at Crystal Bridges wewill be hosting lots of the same
types of things lots ofcelebrations for spring, lots to
do outdoors while the weatheris nice.
You can bike or walk the trailsbefore you come inside the
(10:33):
galleries and see what we havegoing on there.
Natalie Stika (10:35):
Yeah, how would you recommend people experience
all that Crystal Bridges has tooffer when they come visit?
Michelle Moore (10:41):
That's such a hard one Spend more than one day
with us Because there's so muchto see and so much to do.
Right now, Crystal Bridges Isundergoing our big expansion
project and while we'reexpanding we're sort of focused
on revolutionizing the waypeople experience art inside
(11:02):
museums.
And the fun part about thisexpansion is that we're
transforming our galleries soour visitors who stop by over
the next year or so will be ableto see as we move art and
transform into this newexperience.
But while we're doing that, ourvisitors can also come and KAWS
Family, which is our latestspecial exhibition at Crystal
(11:24):
Bridges.
Natalie Stika (11:24):
Tell us more about KAWS.
It is wonderful.
I had the joy of seeing it overthe last couple weekends and
it's something like we've neverhad before.
Michelle Moore (11:35):
I would agree.
I am aware of the sort of artthat has come into Crystal
Bridges and the Momentary overthe last few years and I think
this is probably something brandnew for the museum and for the
community something brand newfor the museum and for the
community and it's a very, veryexciting exhibition.
Kaws is a very hip pop artistwho creates iconic characters
(12:00):
and figures and paintings.
He got his start in the 90sdoing a lot of street art and he
was here with us last week aswe opened the exhibition.
It was so fun to have an artistlike him in town to give us a
special tour of the exhibition.
I think it's great for families.
It's titled Family.
It sort of explores humanemotions and connections.
(12:24):
Fun for everyone of all ages.
It's colorful, it's bright.
Kids will sort of have aneye-opening experience, but I
think parents will love it too.
Natalie Stika (12:36):
Yeah, there's a familiarity there for anyone
that goes and sees it, becausethere are so many familiar
characters that he has kind ofreimagined.
He's worked with several brands, which is kind of originally
how I knew KAWS.
He's worked with several brands, which is kind of originally
how I knew KAWS.
And to see his work displayedit was awing to me that he
painted it.
It looks like graphic designand he even called that out.
(12:57):
We're so used to seeing graphicdesign nowadays that to even
think that his beautifulpaintings with so much precision
was done by hand and that wasso special.
I would love if everyone justknew that going in a lot of
people.
If they don't read, they won'tknow that.
Michelle Moore (13:14):
They won't know that, that he created these
things by hand, and I love whathe said about his paintings, and
I feel like the ones we have atCrystal Bridges are these deep
cuts, works that people wouldn'tnecessarily even know are his,
and he did them many years ago,so it's nice to see those with
the sculptures which he's a bitmore known for.
(13:36):
But you can come in and seesketches and bright paintings
and to know that he did it byhand on this large scale is
pretty phenomenal.
He's an amazing artist.
Natalie Stika (13:46):
Yeah, throughout the museum and the grounds, of
course there's so much art.
Yeah, throughout the museum andthe grounds, of course there's
so much art, and that's theheart and soul of Crystal
Bridges.
But what other can't missexperiences should people be
looking into?
Michelle Moore (13:59):
So when people visit Crystal Bridges as we are
working to transform thegalleries for the expansion,
things are going to look alittle different.
We're going to be moving artaround but we're going to still
have a lot of iconic artworks ondisplay.
We're going to be moving somecontemporary artworks like Our
Town by Kerry James Marshall,which is a big one, to our
(14:20):
earlier galleries so it canremain on view.
We'll have iconic works likeRosie the Riveter by Norman
Rockwell.
Our very, very popular GeorgiaO'Keeffe painting will be up
still so people can still comein and see these iconic works
while the galleries are movingaround.
They'll just be in differentspaces while on view.
(14:41):
And then KAWS will be on viewthrough July 28th and we'll have
another temporary exhibitioncome up called Get in the Game,
which will be a very funsports-related exhibition later
this fall, and that'll beanother temporary exhibition
come up called Get in the Game,which will be a very fun sports
related exhibition later thisfall, and that'll be on view as
we continue to transform thegalleries too.
Natalie Stika (14:55):
Yeah, are you guys going to continue to have,
like, the cocktail tours,evenings at 11 and some
makerspace activities?
Michelle Moore (15:04):
Absolutely.
We will always be celebratingart through our events at
Crystal Bridges all the time,week-long events.
The cocktail tours at CrystalBridges are really fun.
They are themed cocktail tours.
If you sign up for one of those, you can learn to make a very
cool cocktail.
You'll drink it, of course, andthen you'll get a nice tour of
the galleries following that.
(15:24):
We also have our WOW dinners,wednesdays Over Water, which are
the same sort of theme.
They are related or connectedto an artwork or an exhibition
in the galleries.
You'll eat a meal and hear froma chef who created it and also
learn a little bit more aboutwhatever the art focus is, and
you can explore the galleriesafter the meal as well.
There's always going to be artmaking.
(15:46):
We have family fun days wherekids can come in and make art
art, but adults can come andmake art in our studio as well.
Uh, the best thing to do ischeck the Crystal Bridges
website, because there's alwaysso much going on and you don't
want to miss it yeah, um, Ithink you can't go wrong with
any of these experiences atCrystal Bridges.
Natalie Stika (16:05):
Have you been able to participate in any of
them?
Michelle Moore (16:08):
yes, actually actually I have, and it's been
like a joy.
I just went to a Wednesday'sover water at Crystal Bridges
and that was such a fun time.
It was in honor of BlackHistory Month and we had a guest
chef and really just acelebration of the culture and
also Black art and artists andthat was great for community
(16:28):
members to come in town andenjoy.
I really loved it.
I've also done a cocktail tour,which is also very fun.
It's an adult evening out, it'sgreat for date night and we
have Supper Club, which happensat the momentary.
Natalie Stika (16:44):
So new?
Tell us more.
I really love that you guys aredoing this.
No, I want to go so bad youshould go.
Michelle Moore (16:50):
Those are happening, like our Wednesdays
Overwater at Crystal Bridges,but supper clubs are a bit more
casual and family style and theyare also happening once a month
at the momentary and we'rebringing in a guest chef for
those as well.
A different guest chef everymonth, different guest chef
every month.
It's a beautiful setup, a longtable so everyone can sit
(17:10):
together, enjoy conversationstogether and celebrate community
and good food and talk to oneanother, make friends or just
have a good time with your oldfriends.
You should come.
Natalie Stika (17:26):
Yeah, I need to.
There's just so much goodness.
I feel like both CrystalBridges and the Momentary are so
vital in our culture incommunity, whether you're a
local or a visitor, and it's sohard to put into words and I
love hearing from you about it.
But why do you think that thathas happened and you guys are
set?
Michelle Moore (17:38):
you guys are the heartbeat of Ben, I would say
that is like exactly what a PRperson wants to hear.
So, yes, thank you, job done.
I like to think I loveheartbeat.
I also think of Crystal Bridgesand the Momentary as an anchor.
I think they are both verygrounding spaces for the
community.
I've never seen anything likeit.
(18:00):
It's a wonderful feeling towork in a space that celebrates
art and artists and that thecommunity also feels so welcome
to Like.
We are truly making art andsort of premier educational and
inspiring experiences.
We are really making that apart of life for the everyday
(18:24):
Arkansan or sort of Heartlandcommunity member, and I'm glad
that people feel so welcomed andhappy to join us all the time.
I don't know that museumsacross America always feel like
welcoming, energizing spaces,but Crystal Bridge is in the
Momentary.
We truly are doing that workand I can see it when the
(18:45):
community comes by and spendstime with us over and over and
over again.
Natalie Stika (18:49):
Yeah, yeah, it over again.
Yeah, yeah, it's beautiful.
Yeah, what is your personalfavorite thing about the city of
Bentonville?
Michelle Moore (18:56):
Oh, wow.
Well, definitely the outdoors.
I love the nature.
I love being able to get tospend time outside and seeing
the seasons change.
Being from the deep south, Idid not experience seasons.
I'm from the swamp.
It's one season year round.
It is beautiful to see theseasons change outside here in
(19:17):
Bentonville and NorthwestArkansas.
I also am like pleasantlysurprised by the beautiful music
, art and food scene.
There's a lot of culturehappening here and that's
surprising, but I'm also likevery happy and excited to
experience it every weekend whenI'm off from work.
(19:37):
It's a great part of my life.
Natalie Stika (19:40):
I love that For someone planning their first
visit.
What are some pro tips that youhave?
Michelle Moore (19:46):
It's a beautiful weekend getaway here in
Bentonville and I like to saythat it's perfect for lovers and
even people who are expandingtheir family.
Come for your baby moon, comeand just enjoy time with your
partner.
See a show at the momentary,have dinner somewhere great like
(20:07):
Barclita -is my favorite andalso come to Crystal Bridges,
walk outside and walk inside thegalleries.
It's the perfect thing to hitfor weekend fun.
I'm always traveling that waywith my partner.
We like to take weekend tripswhere we go to a museum, we see
a show and we eat really goodfood, and this is a great place
(20:30):
to do that.
Yeah, make traveling casual.
Natalie Stika (20:32):
We love that.
Michelle Moore (20:32):
Yeah, we love it .
Natalie Stika (20:34):
Well, for people that want to get connected to
Crystal Bridges, you can go tocrystalbridgesorg to learn more,
or the momentaryorg.
Follow them on social media atCrystal Bridges Museum or the
Momentary.
And do you want to tell us alittle bit more about your
membership program?
Michelle Moore (20:48):
Yes, I always tell people you can check our
websites and you can follow uson social media.
But another fantastic way toget involved with us is to
become a member.
Members at Crystal Bridges andthe Momentary get all types of
great perks, but the biggest oneis early access to tickets for
events, including our bigconcerts, and also discounted
(21:11):
tickets to big events at CrystalBridges in the Momentary,
including the concerts.
You'll know it first.
If you are a member, you willget an email before anyone else
does and you'll get sort ofdiscounts and exclusive benefits
to enjoy as a member to bothspaces, especially if you're
here in town or also even ifyou're just a short drive away.
(21:31):
Become a member If you're goingto come and see us over and
over again.
There really are some greatbenefits to that and a great way
to stay involved in thecommunity.
Natalie Stika (21:39):
Awesome.
Well, that is a wrap fortoday's episode.
If you're planning a trip toBentonville, be sure to check
out these incredible spaces andeverything that Crystal Bridges
in the Momentary has to offer,especially in the spring.
Thanks for tuning in and don'tforget to follow us on social
media at Visit Bentonville, signup for our newsletter and learn
more about our new Americantown.
Thanks so much, Michelle.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!