From the Director

Photo by Brian Chilson

The Arkansas Arts Center is one of those rare institutions that combines the visual arts, theater and museum school under one roof. By design, the goal of the Arts Center from the beginning was to offer a place where creativity, individual expression and arts education had a home and could flourish. This was expanded to include the State Services Program which brings theater productions and art exhibitions/education to schools and communities throughout the State of Arkansas.

The 2011-2012 season at the Arkansas Arts Center celebrates the 50th anniversary of the AAC with an exhibition schedule themed around "This is Your Arkansas Arts Center." These exhibitions highlight the wonderful riches of the Arts Center's permanent collection-grown over these past 50 years through donation and purchase-as well as traditional exhibitions that have made this institution an integral part of the cultural life in Central Arkansas.

Through our Museum, Collection, Children's Theatre, Museum School and State Services program, the Arts Center has had an impact on this community and state over the past 50 years. Many of you have come to our exhibits, listened to engaging lectures, taken an art class or acted on our stage. Now consider if the Arts Center were not able to offer these opportunities to the people of Little Rock. An active and thriving Arts Center is symbolic of a flourishing community and adds significantly to our quality of life. It is an economic engine that attracts businesses to the area looking for cultural amenities and a creative and engaged workforce. Your support allows us to bring positive cultural experiences to our audience here and throughout the state which continues to be critical in today's world.

I am proud to be part of this legacy, and as we move forward, I am committed to increasing the impact and reach of our programs. I am dedicated to the mission of the Arts Center and will strive to achieve new levels of quality, diversity and engagement with all facets of the community. I hope that you share this vision with me. The Arkansas Arts Center is a unique jewel and through your support, we can raise its visibility and reputation to equal the dedication to the arts that this community has demonstrated over the decades.

Todd Herman
Executive Director