The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, located in the scenic Ozarks of Bentonville, Arkansas, has been recognized as the 17th best art museum in American by The Washington Post. Lauded for being “thoroughly professional, innovative, open-minded, and adventurous,” the museum combines its deep appreciation for American art with a keen focus on contemporary culture and social issues.

Since its opening in 2011, the museum, designed by celebrated architect Moshe Safdie, has welcomed over 12 million visitors. It’s 120-acre campus seamlessly integrates art with nature, offering guests a chance to explore American masterpieces spanning five centuries while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozarks. Thanks to its mission of accessibility, Crystal Bridges provides free admission and a wide range of public programs.

This fall, Crystal Bridges continues its tradition of excellence with a robust lineup of exhibitions exploring the legacies of the American West and celebrating Indigenous art.

Fall Highlights at Crystal Bridges

Knowing the West: Visual Legacies of the American West

Now open through January 27, 2025, this groundbreaking exhibition reexamines how the American West is viewed and portrayed. It highlights often-overlooked stories and showcases art created by diverse groups, including Indigenous artists and women. Through its inclusive lens, the exhibition provides a richer understanding of the culture, history, and art of the West.

American Sunrise: Indigenous Art at Crystal Bridges

Opening November 9 and running through March 23, 2025, American Sunrise celebrates the artistic resilience and innovation of Indigenous creators. Featuring new acquisitions, this exhibition is organized around three themes: Indigenous Futurism, Place, and Kinship. Visitors will experience a dynamic collection of basketry, beadwork, photography, and pottery from over 30 prominent Indigenous artists, representing 150 years of creativity from across the United States and Canada.

A Contemporary Counterpart: The Momentary

Crystal Bridges’ sister property, The Momentary, is a contemporary art, culture, and music space house in a repurposed 63,000-square-foot cheese factory near Bentonville’s 8th Street Market. The venue continues to establish itself as a cultural hotspot in the region, offering visitors a multidisciplinary experience that includes cutting-edge exhibitions.

Best in Show: Pets in Contemporary Photography

Opening on November 23, Best in Show explores the role of pets in Western art and pop culture. This exhibition, organized by Fotografiska New York, celebrates the companionship and complex relationships between humans and their animal counterparts. The exhibit runs through April 13, 2025.

Whether it’s delving into the rich narratives of the American West, celebrating vibrant traditions of Indigenous art, or enjoying playful explorations of contemporary photography, Crystal Bridges and The Momentary offer something for everyone. With these exciting exhibitions and more, both venues remain key destinations for art enthusiasts and cultural adventurers alike.