by Shawna Whitehurst
Delta Digital News Service

JONESBORO, ARK – The Bradbury Art Museum is working to expand its connection with the Jonesboro community through outreach, partnerships and access to free art.

BAM Education coordinator Paden DeVita said building trust in a largely rural community has been key to the museum’s growth.

“We’ve built a lot of trust with the community. We hope to continue expanding programs while strengthening relationships we already have,” DeVita said.

The museum started as a gallery in 2001 and became a museum in 2007. It serves both Arkansas State University and the surrounding community.

The museum increased its outreach and programming in recent years, including partnering with the fine arts department on campus to showcase art, as well as expanding its reach to other colleges on the university campus. Outreach efforts expanded through summer workshops and partnerships with local organizations such as the Craighead County Public Library, offering programs and activities for students.

One recent workshop focused on linocut printmaking, a hands-on art form that allows students to carve designs and create prints. Museum photographer and outreach assistant Savannah Sifford said programs like these help introduce different types of art to the community.

“These workshops give people the chance to experience art in a hands-on way,” Sifford said.

Being located on a college campus, the museum draws a mix of students and local residents. Front desk manager and Graphic Designer AnnEllise Jarrett said recent visitors have included students and adults in their 20s and 30s.

“Recently, many have said they have found the museum through social media and online searches,” Jarrett said.

Even with increased engagement, visibility remains a challenge as the museum is tucked away on the side of the Fowler Center.

“Getting people through the door is one of the biggest challenges. We’re always trying to increase engagement,” DeVita said.

Jarret said having a museum like BAM is important, especially in rural communities, for allowing students and adults the opportunity to engage with art.

The museum plans to continue expanding its programming with additional gallery activities and partnerships aimed at increasing community engagement.