Walton Arts Center is bringing a mix of free and low-cost events and performances to NWA as part of the annual Artosphere: Arkansas’ Arts + Nature Festival May 1-18.
Artosphere celebrates art, music and nature by spotlighting artists and performers from around the world who are inspired by nature. The festival also provides a creative framework for the community to discuss issues of sustainability and environmental awareness.
The multi-week festival features a mix of free and low-cost events, including some special performances as well as concerts in sacred spaces and special places throughout the region. Several Artosphere favorites are back this year including Trail Mix, Tunes on the Trail, Trout Fishing in America as well as free workshops and interactive art experiences.
Returning this year, experience music, nature and movement collide in this interactive listening experience, Tunes on the Trail! Throughout May, you can enjoy a curated playlist featuring some of the Artosphere Festival Orchestra’s most beloved performances from the past 11 seasons as you use one of Northwest Arkansas’s trail systems listed below. Experience art in nature by scanning the QR code on the signage placed at each trailhead.
Trout Fishing in America
Explore a buzzing, humming hive of activity as human-sized bees at Fayetteville Public Library May 14 –16. Watch as these bees busy themselves in the community creation alongside children who can transform into bees as they play. Inspired by the mysterious life and work of bees, this re-imagining of public space involves the slow uncovering of an intricate unseen world.
Friends and songwriting partners, Trout Fishing in America’s Keith Grimwood and Ezra are performing as part of Artosphere on Tuesday, May 6 at 6:30 pm. This nationally touring duo has traveled over a million miles and performed in all 50 states, parts of Canada and Europe. They write music for people who take their fun seriously, and their dynamic sound, relatable lyrics and unique stage presence offer something for everyone. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and join us for a free family-friendly concert on BGO’s Great Lawn.
Nimbus Dance
Artosphere’s signature event features live art, music and activities for kids and families! The Upper and Lower Ramble are the home of Trail Mix this year, exploring the convergence of art and nature in the forest canopy and pathways through Tanglewood Creek, Fay Jones Woods and the newly constructed public space, Upper Ramble. Trail Mix is a free event that features Backyard Bugs, Sarah Reed and Michael Hannah woodwind duo, Fayetteville High School Steel Pan Band, Dandelion Heart, University of Arkansas World Music Ensemble, energetic musical group Squonk and entertainers from Inspyral Circus.
Just after Trail Mix, join us back at Walton Arts Center for Nimbus Dance. This group bridges the gap between world-class performances and community engagement by presenting work that challenges while also speaking to and elevating the core beliefs of its diverse audience. Don’t miss this iconic performance on Friday, May 9 at 8 pm. Tickets are only $10!
You won’t want to miss the rest of our free Artosphere events like Railyard Live, Yoga on the Mountain, Recycled Workshops with Shannon Green, Music on the Glade and many more!
To see a full lineup of Artosphere events, including live music and shows for kids, please visit waltonartscenter.org/artosphere. Except where noted below, additional information, tickets or reservations for these events are available now at artospherefestival.org, by calling 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am-5 pm or in person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am-2 pm.