After nearly 4 years of renovations, the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts celebrates its grand opening

Little Rock, Arkansas – After almost four years of repair and rethinking, the former Arkansas Arts Center in Little Rock underwent its historic grand opening as the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts.

The design and construction of the new museum were funded through a successful public-private partnership, according to a news release.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by 500 people from the neighborhood and local area.

Governor of Arkansas Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Mayor of Little Rock Frank Scott Jr. were among the attendees.

“To the entire Little Rock community, thank you for coming together to put the fine arts front and center in our city,” said Governor Sanders. “All of this museum’s supporters are tied together by a common thread: that Arkansas deserves a world-class capital city. One with access to the best artwork and the best art facilities in the country. This isn’t just an investment in our generation – it’s an investment in our children’s generation too.”

“We are creating a gateway to the future for our city through arts and culture,” said Mayor Scott. “We do this together as we open a new era for the city of Little Rock with this anchor institution in the heart of downtown. It’s something every one of us can be proud of.”

According to a news release, Dr. Victoria Ramirez, executive director of the AMFA, made additional remarks, and Harriet and Warren Stephens, co-chairs of the museum’s capital campaign, announced the final campaign total of $170.8 million, which was far higher than the project’s initial $66 million objective.

“We proudly offer free admission to everyone, every day – a significant commitment to this community and an affirmation that the museum is a place for all,” said Dr. Ramirez.

“AMFA is a testament to the generosity and vision of the people of Little Rock, the state of Arkansas, and beyond who have lent their support as patrons, donors, contributors, and friends. It is a testament to the great love many of us shared for the Arkansas Arts Center, upon which AMFA is built,” said Harriet Stephens.

“I want every one of these donors and organizations to know how grateful we are – and how grateful future generations of Arkansans and visitors will be for their support,” said Warren Stephens.

Regular museum hours for the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts will start on Tuesday, May 2, from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and on Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

AMFA advises visitors to make reservations for the debut season. For tickets and more details on memberships, programs, and events, visit the AMFA website.