Fort Smith, AR — The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum is thrilled to announce the opening of two exhibitions this September! Join us on Friday, September 18, from 5–7 pm for a celebration of regional art and a dive into the historical Route 66.

The first exhibition, of Wanderlust & Thresholds: Stillness in Motion, features the illustrated works of Fayetteville-based artist, Aaron Bleidt. Renowned for his ability to capture the extraordinary within the ordinary, Bleidt’s pieces are described as "vignettes" or "visual haiku" that encourage viewers to explore the boundaries between movement and stillness. His freehand digital drawings and pigment ink prints promise a closer look into the mundane and the miraculous. Bleidt, who has showcased his work both regionally and nationally, was previously awarded as the RAM Annual Invitational winner in 2025.

Simultaneously, we invite you to explore The Lost Highway by David Malcolm Rose, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the iconic Route 66. This exhibition features intricately detailed miniature models of long-forgotten businesses along the historic highways of the United States, from New York to Wyoming. Rose’s works capture the essence of the people who thrived by the roadside, weaving a narrative of an era that has faded into memory. This exhibition’s artworks were graciously donated to the museum’s collection in 2021 by the artist and will be on display in the Sandi & Sandy Sanders Gallery for the Permanent Collection

Both receptions are free to the public, with light refreshments provided. The exhibitions will be on view through January 17, 2027. Join us for a night of art and community and experience regional art and history at the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum!

For more information, visit the museum’s website, www.fsram.org, or call 479-784-2787.

About the Fort Smith Regional Art Museum:

The Fort Smith Regional Art Museum (RAM) exhibits local, nationally and internationally recognized artists. In addition to ongoing exhibitions, the museum offers children and adult classes, lectures, opening receptions, art camps, galas, workshops, and facility rentals. The museum also includes a specialty gift shop featuring artist-made items.

HOURS | Tuesday–Saturday, 11 am – 5 pm ; Sunday, 1 pm – 5 pm

MUSEUM ADMISSION | Free