On a quiet stretch of 535 N. Waldron Road in Fort Smith, the University of Arkansas Fort Smith Gallery of Art & Design is getting ready to host a tradition that’s as much about community as it is about creativity. The 2026 Small Works on Paper exhibition, a fixture in Arkansas’s art scene, is set to open on March 6, bringing with it a flurry of local talent and artistic exploration.
Now in its 39th year, the Small Works on Paper is not just any exhibition; it’s a juried showcase highlighting pieces from Arkansas artists. Each work, constrained to no larger than 18-by-24 inches, challenges creatives to make a big impact in a small space. This year promises a variety of styles and mediums, all representing the unique spirit of Arkansas’s art community.
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The opening reception is a must-attend for art lovers in the area, running from 5 to 7 p.m. It’s an opportunity to mingle with artists, collectors, and enthusiasts alike—all under one roof. If the walls of the Gallery of Art & Design could speak, they’d tell stories of vibrant hues and whispered inspirations, all waiting to be discovered by the keen observer.
More Than Art in Fort Smith
While art aficionados are marking their calendars for the Small Works on Paper opening, Fort Smith residents have plenty more to look forward to. The local theater scene is bustling with energy, as the Fort Smith Little Theatre holds auditions for their upcoming production of “Drinking Habits.” It’s a chance for local talent to shine and for the community to come together in support of the arts.
Dance enthusiasts should note the showcase happening around the same time, where a variety of styles will be on display, offering everything from classical ballet to contemporary twists. And for those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the March Art Walk offers a stroll through local galleries and shops, each stop a new discovery.
Russellville’s Possum Palooza and More
Just a short drive away, Russellville is gearing up for its quirky yet beloved Possum Palooza on March 7. This celebration, part of Russellville’s nod to the U.S. turning 250, is more than just a nod to nocturnal marsupials. It’s a festival of community pride, featuring music, food, and fun for all ages.
For families looking for something to engage the little ones, a stuffed animal storytime is slotted in the schedule. Meanwhile, budding artists can enter a bookmark contest that promises to stir creativity among the young and young at heart.
Both Fort Smith and Russellville are vibrant hubs for culture and community this March. Whether you’re an art lover drawn to the Small Works on Paper, a theater enthusiast auditioning for the latest play, or just someone looking to soak up local color at Possum Palooza, there’s no shortage of events to keep you entertained.
With so much happening, make sure to check out other events around NWA too. For instance, T.A. Sampson’s field opens for the 25th Cane Hill Kite Festival on March 7—yet another testament to the rich tapestry of cultural events in our area. And if you’re in Bentonville, don’t forget about the new Hairpins happy hours at the Momentary.
Source: NWA Democrat Gazette
