Kent dover, allison pickell, kelly o’dwyer, paulette richie, dana kellerman, inez reeder, jim McAdams, marva caldwell, stephanie hurst, karen upton
Not Pictured: Kim robbins, leigh spann, doug wingfield
Celebrating Inspiring Women
As I was busy working on the May Women’s Issue, I kept thinking about the Virginia Woolf quote: “For most of history, anonymous was a woman.”
In America, women were not allowed to become publishing professionals until late in the 19th century - so their work was either unseen, published under a male relative’s name or under the moniker “anonymous.”
Still, they did the work. They laid the foundation for future generations. And, here I am now, sitting at my keyboard, writing a letter to the readers of a magazine, that I publish and that is operated by a team of women, whose names are proudly and unapologetically listed on our masthead. I guess you could say I am biased, but the Women’s Issue is my favorite yet.
Thank you to the immensely talented Holly Tilley for lending her “Peonies? Yes Please” to our cover. Read more about Holly and her work in “Multi-Layered Masterpieces.” Holly’s peonies are colorful, complex and intricately layered - so absolutely perfect for the Women’s Issue.
This month, we feature some truly phenomenal females in our community, beginning with four “Inspiring Women” whose work empowers others daily. You don’t want to miss the impactful advice they would offer their younger selves.
In “The Power of the Purse,” we spotlight the ESSE Purse Museum and Store in SoMa, where owner Anita Davis brilliantly shows the history of women through the purses they carry.
We are thrilled to feature the new Little Rock Rangers Women’s team this month. We can’t wait to cheer on these talented athletes! Read more about the team in “A Remarkable Comeback.”
As we gear up to celebrate the favorite women in our lives, Tay Stratton, Owner of Fennel & Fire, offers her Spiced Amaretto French Toast recipe that is sure to be the star of this year’s Mother’s Day brunch.
Friends, we hope you have an amazing May. And to the moms, grandmothers, godmothers, fur-moms and mother figures in our lives – Happy Mother’s Day!
STEPHANIE HASBROUCK, PUBLISHER @LITTLEROCKCITYLIFESTYLE
May 2025
PUBLISHER
Stephanie Hasbrouck
stephanie.hasbrouck@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Anna Yanosick | anna.yanosick@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Anna Yanosick, Tay Stratton, Stephanie Hasbrouck, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Sarah Bussey Photography, Katie Adkins Photography, Leslie LaRae, Rob Bostic, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Adam Finley
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Austin and Lauren Grinder and Katherine and Alex Jones at the Breakthrough T1D Little Rock Party with a Purpose. 2: Boswell Mourot Fine Art held an Opening Reception for Jeff Horton and Andy Huss’ “Tensions & Transformations.” 3: Jennifer Herron and artist Jeff Horton at the opening of Jeff’s exhibition 4: Coldwell Banker RPM Group represented at the Little Rock Realtors Association’s Realtor Awards of Distinction event. 5: Artist Sammy Peters and Kyle Boswell, Owner of Boswell Mourot Fine Art 6: Community members gathered at Art Group Gallery to celebrate the opening of “Spring — A Show by Clarence Cash.” 7: Clarence Cash and Joella Huddleston at Clarence’s “Spring” opening.
business monthly
Chamber Hosts Small Business Summit Thursday, May 8
The Little Rock Regional Chamber will host a Small Business Summit from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday, May 8, at the City Center. The summit, presented by Bank OZK, will connect small businesses with industry experts, offer actionable insights and networking opportunities. For more information or to register for the event, visit littlerockchamber.com . Registration includes a ticket to the Small Business Impact Awards Luncheon.
Baptist Health Offers Classes for the Community
Did you know that Baptist Health offers courses for the community? From childbirth classes to newborn care and breastfeeding support, CPR instruction to safe sitter classes, Baptist Health offers a wide range of community education. All classes are taught by community experts. For more information, visit baptist-health.com/classes-resources
Scan to read more
Sandwiching in History Tour: Arkansas State Capitol Will be Friday, May 2
The Arkansas State Capitol is a majestic domed neoclassical statehouse built between 1899 and 1915 to replace Arkansas’ Old State House. Hear about its history and architecture at the Sandwiching in History Tour, presented by the Arkansas Historic Preservation Program in partnership with Arkansas State Archives Director David Ware, formerly the State Capitol Historian. The tour will take place outdoors on the capitol grounds Friday, May 2, at noon.
INSPIRING women
THESE FOUR WOMEN ARE HELPING TO BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BUSSEY PHOTOGRAPHY
Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote, “Women are the real architects of society.” We couldn’t agree more. This month, we feature four women who are building a stronger Little Rock. We asked all of them the same three questions. And although each are unique individuals with vastly different careers, all expressed a common goal of empowering others. We are inspired by the work they do and the valuable advice they offer.
Carolyn Cobb’s real estate career spans more than two decades. As a lifetime resident of Central Arkansas, Carolyn’s familiarity with the region, her vast real estate knowledge and her unique ability to connect with home buyers and sellers have propelled her to the highest echelons of the real estate industry. She says the role of Principal Broker is one of the most challenging positions of her career, and one she does not take for granted.
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF THE WORK YOU DO?
Participating in the growth of our sales associates and brokers. It is so rewarding to watch new agents grow and gain confidence and to watch experienced agents find new and better technology to work smarter.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK CONTRIBUTES TO THE COMMUNITY?
I am a native Arkansan, so if our team can help our communities make Arkansas a ‘better place to live, work and play,’ I will know that I have done my part. We work hard to deliver ‘The American Dream’ to our clients.
IF YOU COULD GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF ONE PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL HER?
I would tell her to ‘go for it!’ By that I mean, don’t let anyone stop you from reaching new heights and take a leap of faith if you have a vision. Also, be kind and be considerate of others; it will take you a long way in this world!
CAROLYN Cobb
PRINCIPAL BROKER AND PRESIDENT OF COLDWELL BANKER RPM GROUP
CREATIVE ECONOMY ADVISOR FOR THE CITY OF LITTLE ROCK
As Creative Economy Advisor for the City of Little Rock, Melissa Mitchell fosters innovation and expands opportunities for Little Rock-based creatives and cultural entrepreneurs. She recently spearheaded the launch of iCREATE, a citywide initiative to connect, develop and facilitate resources for Little Rock’s creative community. She also led the relaunch of R.O.C.K. Academy (Residents Obtaining Community Knowledge), a civic engagement initiative, and works to design and secure funding for economic development opportunities to support underserved communities.
Melissa was named one of six leaders nationwide to participate in the National Leaders of Color Fellowship, through which she will gain access to industry specialists, strategic learning objectives centered on culturally oriented leadership practices and national-level network building.
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF THE WORK YOU DO?
The most rewarding part of my work is connecting with residents and creatives and helping them access the resources and opportunities that can positively impact their lives. Whether it’s supporting local artists through iCREATE, empowering residents through R.O.C.K. Academy or fostering partnerships that strengthen our creative economy, I
find fulfillment in seeing people thrive. Building these connections not only uplifts individuals but also strengthens our community as a whole.
WHAT
DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK CONTRIBUTES
TO THE COMMUNITY?
I hope my work helps build a more inclusive, connected and thriving community by creating opportunities for both residents and creatives to grow and succeed. Through initiatives like iCREATE and R.O.C.K. Academy, I strive to empower individuals with knowledge, resources and support that foster both personal and economic development. Ultimately, my goal is to cultivate a stronger, more vibrant city where creativity, civic engagement and collaboration drive meaningful and lasting impact.
IF YOU COULD GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF ONE PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL HER?
I would tell my younger self to pursue every opportunity, even when fear or uncertainty tries to hold you back. Trust that showing up as your authentic self is always enough, even if it means standing out. You belong at every table, so take up space with confidence and never doubt the value you bring.
I would tell my younger self to pursue every opportunity, even when fear or uncertainty tries to hold you back ... You belong at every table, so take up space with confidence and never doubt the value you bring.
JANET Marshall
CHIEF DEVELOPMENT OFFICER FOR BAPTIST HEALTH FOUNDATION
Janet Marshall has a heart for serving others. In fact, she has devoted the past 34 years to development work within the nonprofit sector. In January, she became Chief Development Officer for Baptist Health Foundation. The Foundation raises millions of dollars annually to support life-changing programs and life-saving care at Baptist Health. Through her work, Janet helps connect donors to the Foundation to bring Baptist Health’s mission to life.
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF THE WORK YOU DO?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is expressing gratitude to our donors for their generosity. Their support makes a significant difference in the lives of our patients, as it enables us to secure funding for essential equipment, programs and services.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK CONTRIBUTES TO THE COMMUNITY?
We strive to make a positive impact on the health and happiness of Arkansans through our service to the community. Our daily work aims to improve the well-being and quality of life for our patients and their loved ones. We sincerely care and hope this is evident to those we serve.
IF YOU COULD GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF ONE PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL HER?
One piece of advice I would give my younger self would be to never underestimate your own potential.
Before she became Member Development Manager of the Little Rock Regional Chamber, Samantha Bentley was an elementary school music teacher who participated in every program, coalition, board and association that she possibly could. In 2023, she moved to Little Rock, renovated a fixer-upper and began a whole new career. Though she no longer works in education, Samantha is an educator at heart – answering questions, making meaningful connections and helping local business owners engage in the community. She also recently joined the board of directors for the Studio Theatre.
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF THE WORK YOU DO?
The connections I have made are by far the most rewarding part of my job. Not only the connections to grow my personal community but helping make introductions and connecting others. Those are the days when I feel like it’s all worth it.
WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR WORK CONTRIBUTES TO THE COMMUNITY?
I want to see Little Rock flourish. It has the potential and the momentum, but we as a city need to do it. We can’t leave it to a few individuals. My generation especially. The millennials are the best ride-or-die generation; I wouldn’t change it. But we need to start getting more involved. And my ask to the community is to be open-minded to letting this next generation start adding to the momentum of change. We won’t know how to drive, unless you let us try.
IF YOU COULD GIVE YOUR YOUNGER SELF ONE PIECE OF ADVICE, WHAT WOULD YOU TELL HER?
Dear 16-year-old Samantha, you were put on this earth to help, whoever you can, whenever you can, however you can, in all the ways you can and to the best of your abilities. But helping, supporting, advocating, is not synonymous with people pleasing. Don’t plan your life to make someone else happy, don’t change your body to make someone else happy, and don’t keep quiet to make someone else happy. Your choices, your feelings, your dreams are yours for a reason. They are valid. Also, listen ... your 30s are going to be the best. It starts a little rough; the world might shut down for a hot minute. But your 30s ... girl, they are the happiest you’ve been. Hang in there, darlin’. Cry the tears, feel the feels, and do the hard things. It’s all going to pay off.
SAMANTHA Bentley
MEMBER DEVELOPMENT MANAGER OF THE
LITTLE ROCK REGIONAL CHAMBER
THE power OF THE purse
ARTICLE BY ANNA YANOSICK PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE ADKINS PHOTOGRAPHY
ESSE PURSE MUSEUM AND STORE CELEBRATES THE EVOLUTION OF WOMEN THROUGH THE PURSES THEY CARRY
ESSE Purse Museum and Store, nestled in the historic SoMa district of Little Rock, celebrates the evolution of women through the purses they carry, offering a unique slice of history in each case.
What started as a traveling exhibit that toured the country from 2006 to 2011 blossomed into one of two purse museums in the world.
“It’s not just a purse museum,” Owner Anita Davis says. “That’s the object of the story, but it is about the history of the American woman, and it’s told through the purse.”
The name “Esse,” derived from the Latin infinitive for “to be,” underscores the museum’s philosophy: a woman’s purse is more than just an accessory but also the essence of the woman herself.
The museum features a permanent display called “What’s Inside: A History of Women and Handbags 1900 to 1999.”
Glass cases, broken down by decade, showcase purses and accessories, like smelling salts, lipstick, keys to a station wagon or even the original Barbie.
Guests step through time, experiencing the sleek leather clutches of the 80s or the bejeweled designs of the roaring 20s.
“IT’S NOT JUST A PURSE MUSEUM. THAT’S THE OBJECT OF THE story, BUT IT IS ABOUT THE HISTORY OF THE American woman, AND IT’S TOLD THROUGH the purse.”
The cases also include summaries of how the purses and their contents reflect the decade, as well as photographs of women from that period.
“You can see what she wore and how she held the purse and then the brief history at the end,” Anita says.
Anita’s personal favorite? A simple black Ingber wool purse from the 50s with a giant brass safety pin as the handle.
“It has a little whimsy, and I feel like that’s totally important,” Anita says.
Anita hopes visitors will use their imaginations as they walk through the exhibits, which provide an intimate perspective on the lives of the women who came before them.
“To try to imagine what their grandmother’s life might have been like, or their aunt’s, just to give them a personal way of thinking.”
Guests can admire three dioramas titled “Nothing’s More Natural Than Skin,” “By Land, Sea or Air” and “A Night on the Town,” as well as a case dedicated to Black glamour and a room for four temporary exhibits a year.
The museum also includes a gift shop, which guests enter through, with designer purses, jewelry, wallets, books and candles.
AN UNINTENTIONAL COLLECTION BECOMES A MUSEUM
Anita says she never intended to have a purse collection, let alone a museum.
She was raised in Murfreesboro, Ark., a town of about a thousand people, where everything was within walking distance.
At just 5 years old, Anita would trek to Crater of Diamonds State Park, where a fascination with rocks helped spark a lifelong passion for collecting antiques.
“My mother was a fashionista. I was an only child. Living in a little, tiny town, you love to go to the neighboring little cities,” Anita says. “We frequented Hot
“I LOVE TO COLLECT THINGS. AND THE art THAT I DO IS assemblage . IT TURNS OUT THAT THAT’S JUST PART OF who I am.”
Springs, Texarkana, and then on big, big little trips, we came to Little Rock. She loved to dress, and she loved to dress me. I was more tomboyish, but I still got the feel for how fun it was to look at beautiful fabrics, touch the leathers and all that sort of thing.”
That love of design and collecting followed Anita into adulthood, as did her fondness for walkable neighborhoods.
Driven by a vision to restore the vibrancy of SoMa, she purchased the Bernice Building in 2005, which houses Boulevard Bread Co., and founded The Bernice Garden, a sculpture park and event space, in 2007.
Eventually, after joining an all-female dream group, Anita started exploring the concept of the Divine Feminine, which resonated deeply with her and the message of the museum she would later open.
In 2011, she acquired a 1946 building at 1510 South Main Street, transforming it into the cultural landmark it is today in 2013.
“I love to collect things,” Anita says. “And the art that I do is assemblage. It turns out that that’s just part of who I am.”
GROUP RPM Celebrating
70 Years of Trusted Real
Estate Expertise
Honoring a Legacy, Building the Future
William F. “Billy” Rector and two partners founded Rector Phillips Morse, Inc. in 1955 with a vision for excellence in real estate. Over the decades, his commitment to integri service built a lasting legacy. Kris Upton, President and CEO, has led the company for the last decade. Upton acqu full ownership in 2023 and Karen Upton joined the leadership team as Executive Vice President. Today, celebrate 70 years of serving Arkansas and look for a future of continued growth built on enduring valu Trust, Integrity, Excellence, and Service.
Comprehensive Services, Local Excellence
With over 250 real estate professionals and employees across seven offices, RPM Group is a cornerstone of Arkansas’ economic development. Locally owned and operated, RPM Group is a full-service real estate firm specializing in Commercial and Investment Sales, Property Management, and Residential Sales through its relationship with the global Coldwell Banker franchise. For the second consecutive year, Coldwell Banker RPM Group ranked number one in total sales in Central Arkansas.
Committed to Communities, Driven by Impact
The RPM Group’s mission is to enhance the growth and prosperity of every community we serve. Beyond real estate, we are dedicated to making a lasting impact by investing in local businesses and giving back to non-profit organizations. Community involvement is at the heart of our company and we are driven to create more vibrant places to live and work.
LITTLE ROCK RANGERS WOMEN’S SOCCER TEAM MAKES AN EXCITING RETURN
A REMARKABLE COMEBACK
ARTICLE BY ANNA YANOSICK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LESLIE LARAE AND ROB BOSTIC
After nearly seven years on the sidelines, the Little Rock Rangers Women’s soccer team is making a remarkable comeback. Leslie LaRae, who coordinates the team’s social media, says she believes Little Rock is ready to embrace a women’s team. And, as evidenced by the strong turnout at tryouts in March, female athletes from across the region are ready to be a part of it.
The team played its last game of its first season on July 7, 2017. The club then made the decision to dissolve it. But Leslie says that times have changed, and the general sentiment toward women’s sports has evolved.
“The past five years, you’ve probably seen that, even if you aren’t a sports fan, women’s sports are being highlighted more and more,” she says.
The excitement was palpable at the team’s tryouts, held at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock.
“You could feel the passion and the excitement,” Leslie says. “Memorial is such an amazing place to play with incredible sound acoustics that fuels the energy of the fans and players.”
Players as young as 14 attended the tryouts to be a part of the experience. “It was a beautiful thing to see women of all different ages and levels in their athletic careers coming together in this city for soccer again,” Leslie says.
The club has goals to one day transition to a professional league, and bringing back a women’s United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) was an imperative first step.
MORE THAN A GAME
Leslie believes soccer has a unique power to energize and unite people from all walks of life.
“It’s more important than ever to celebrate all humanity and cultures and empower each other,” she says.
“When you experience the community and empowerment that soccer brings to fans and a city, you want to be a part of it.”
She says women’s soccer is specifically important because of the power, strength and leadership it instills in female athletes.
“When you experience the community and empowerment that soccer brings to fans and a city, you want to be a part of it.”
—LESLIE LARAE
To continue to ignite the community’s passion for the game, the club plans to launch new initiatives with local schools this season.
To follow the Little Rock Ranger Women’s team and stay up-to-date on the program and season schedule, follow @lrrangers_upslwomen on Instagram and @lrrangers_women on all other platforms or visit littlerockrangers.com.
Scenes from the Little Rock Rangers Women's soccer team tryouts held in March at War Memorial Stadium.
Spiced Amaretto French Toast
ARTICLE BY TAY STRATTON | PHOTOGRAPHY
CONTRIBUTED
Make Mother’s Day Brunch
Extra Sweet With This Elevated Classic ingredients:
• 4 thick slices of brioche or challah
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup half & half
• 2 Tbsp amaretto liqueur
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 10 grinds of Fennel & Fire Coffee Twist
• 1 Tbsp butter
Cherry Amaretto Jam
• 1/2 cup cherry preserves
• 1 Tbsp amaretto liqueur
• 10 grinds of Fennel & Fire Coffee Twist
directions:
Step 1. Prepare the batter. In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, amaretto, vanilla extract and Fennel and Fire Coffee Twist seasoning until smooth.
Step 2. Soak the bread. Dip each slice of brioche into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Let sit for 15-30 seconds per side to absorb the flavors.
Step 3. Cook the French toast. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter. Cook each slice for two to three minutes per side or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges.
Step 4. Make the Cherry Amaretto Jam. In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the cherry preserves with amaretto and Fennel and Fire Coffee Twist seasoning, stirring until smooth, slightly thickened and warmedthrough — about 30 seconds.
Step 5. Assemble. Plate the French toast, pour a small amount of War Eagle Berry Syrup or maple syrup on top, and generously top with the cherry amaretto mixture.
Step 6. Garnish and serve. Top with a small dollop of whipped cream and finish with a few extra grinds of Fennel and Fire Coffee Twist seasoning. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Photo Credit Morgan Leigh Photography
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
From Stem To Vase:
TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART
Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings. As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the
Florals and Fruit
Add a burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase. Fill the surrounding space with water, then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.
superstitions associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.
In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.
Hanging Florals
For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.
No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.
Flower Frogs
Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.
MAY 2ND – 3RD 501Fest
SoMa | 11:00 AM
501FEST is a celebration of Little Rock and the people who sustain it. This annual festival brings neighbors, families and friends together to honor the spirit, creativity and entrepreneurial energy of the city. For tickets, visit 501festival.com.
MAY 3RD
Be A Part of the Cure Walk
War Memorial Stadium | 8:00 AM
Join the fifth annual Be A Part of the Cure Walk at the UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute and honor survivors, remember loved ones and raise money for cancer research. To register, visit cancer.uams.edu/cure/
MAY 8TH
“Biographies” Conversation with the Artist
Boswell Mourot Fine Art | 5:30 PM
Boswell Mourot Fine Art presents new works by Ray Parker through May 17. A Conversation with the Artist will take place from 5:307:30 p.m. Thursday, May 8.
MAY 10TH – 11TH
Quapaw Quarter Association’s 60th Tour of Homes
MacArthur Park Historic District | 1:00 PM
Celebrate 60 years of history at the Quapaw Quarter Association’s Tour of Homes. Explore Little Rock’s finest historic homes with expert-led tours, artistic installations and performances. Experience the beauty of the MacArthur Park Historic District, a landmark since 1977.
MAY 10TH – 11TH
Circus at the Symphony
Robinson Center | 7:30 PM
The Arkansas Symphony Orchestra presents Circus at the Symphony, a concert that melds classical music with cinematic enchantment. Relish the music of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Saint-Saëns, Scott Joplin and John Williams with performances like Entry of the Gladiators and Swan Lake and the Swan. For show times and ticket information, visit arkansassymphony.org
MAY 14TH
Bid Adieu to Rivera’s Paris
Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts | 5:00 PM
The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts invites guests to celebrate the final days of Rivera’s Paris for its last art salon in the Cultural Living Room. Teleport to the 20th century with French drinks and hors d’oeuvres, view art in the galleries and engage in conversation with two Windgate Art School instructors who specialize in metals and printmaking.
Multi-Layered Masterpieces
After a long career in marketing and advertising, Holly Tilley is pursuing her artistic passion. Inspired by the outdoors, she enjoys incorporating landscapes into her stunningly colorful and multi-layered pieces.
“I primarily work in oil and love the effects you can get layering transparent colors. Plus, in recent years I’ve moved to a more abstracted, geometric look to the shapes, allowing subtle color shifts to dictate the form,” she says.
Holly’s “Peonies? Yes Please,” on the cover this month, was inspired by her most recent trip to France.
“On the last day, we were in an open-air market in Langenais, France, and I spotted a private garden on a side street. These perfect blooms were sunlit and the size of a small football – love them so much because they are so fragile, and that just-right openness only lasts a short time.”
To see more of Holly’s work, visit Art Group Gallery in Pleasant Ridge Town Center and artgrouparkansas.com
Holly Tilley Layers Colors and Abstracted Shapes to Create Beautiful, Unique Works
ARTICLE BY STEPHANIE HASBROUCK | PHOTOGRAPHY
Top Left: Artist Holly Tilley Top Right: “Peonies? Yes Please” Lower Right: “Face the Sun” ARTIST’S PALETTE |
The Baptist Health Foundation, established in 1963, is dedicated to providing financial support to advance the healing ministry of Baptist Health. Our mission is to connect philanthropy with purpose, empowering Baptist Health to deliver lifesaving care. Together, through philanthropic partnerships, we have the power to transform lives and uplift our community. By supporting the Baptist Health Foundation, your generosity is not just a gift; it’s an investment in the future of healthcare in Arkansas.
To learn more about us, visit baptisthealthfoundation.org
