About Crystal Bridges
Museum | Building | Architect | Facts
Copyright John Horner
Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art will present exceptional art, educational programs and community gatherings in a unique and welcoming setting.
The museum takes its name from a nearby natural spring and the glass-and-wood building design by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie. A series of pavilions nestled around two creek-fed ponds will house galleries, meeting and classroom spaces and a large auditorium. Sculpture and walking trails will link the museum’s 100-acre park and gardens to downtown Bentonville, Arkansas.
In addition to expanding access to art, cultural and learning resources, Crystal Bridges will also spur the continued economic development of Northwest Arkansas.
Copyright John Horner
Museum of American Art
Crystal Bridges will house a permanent collection of masterworks of American art ranging from the colonial era to contemporary work. Visitors will be able to enjoy the collection within the state-of-the-art galleries and throughout the surrounding park. To see announced works of the permanent collection, please go to the collection page on our website.
In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibitions drawn from national institutions will complement the holdings of the permanent collection and exemplify the diversity of American artists.
Crystal Bridges is designed to build connections, both literally and figuratively, with the communities of Northwest Arkansas. Linking Bentonville’s neighborhoods with walking trails that encourage regular visits to the museum and its sculpture gardens, Crystal Bridges will encourage community uses and activities as one of its highest priorities.
A 250-seat auditorium and other spaces will be ideal venues for community receptions and dinners and private functions ranging from business conferences to weddings.
Traditional museum resources, including a museum store, dining facilities, parking and group tours, are planned as well.
