“Vasti Jackson” Photo Courtesy of Big Steam Blues & Roots Music Festival Our September cover features none other than Mississippi blues legend Vasti Jackson—a soulful nod to Beats & Beans: The Ultimate Blues & Bites Festival, rolling into Hot Springs this month. (Catch the full scoop on pg. 3.) Big thanks to Joe Powell at Big Steam for tracking down the photo and to Joe Dempsey, whose resolution wizardry brought
“Jackson in the Garden” by Susan Baker Chambers We were just minding our own business when we heard some unmistakable growly-howly-whining. Turns out Jackson—lounging in Susan’s garden—was feeling a little snubbed after Irma McLeod’s Black Flower landed the July cover. Equal time was in order. So, August is officially dedicated to the canine world, with none other than Jackson as our cover dawg. From the looks of his pose, Jackson
“Black Flower” by Irma McLeod Summer has officially arrived, and our July cover captures the spirit we were searching for—artsy, whimsical, a little mischievous, and just plain delightful. When we saw Black Flower by the talented Irma McLeod, we knew we’d found the perfect fit. This fabulous feline feels like it’s moments away from pouncing on some mysterious garden surprise. Curious? We are, too! We invite you to embrace the
“Mystic Ozark” Photo Courtesy of Mystic Ozark This month, we take great pleasure in introducing Mystic Ozark, the latest gem in Hot Springs’ historic downtown bathhouses. Mystic Ozark provides an entertaining and educational downtown presence for Mid-America Science Museum. Turn to page 9 of this issue for a sneak peek at the Mystic experience that features interactive themed environments, water features, projection mapping, and engaging hands-on exhibits. Five years in
The Visitor By Longhua Xu Longhua Xu’s formal arts training began in 1971 under the Chinese National Arts and Crafts Company. He was one of 50 students in all of Shanghai selected to lead a new generation of professional artists following the end of the Cultural Revolution. In 1972, at 18 years old, he rose to national prominence with exhibitions across China, including the Shanghai Art Museum. He was one of
“Invasion of the Bubble!” Photo of Livie Thompson By Photographer Ashley Thompson At just 10 years old, Livie Thompson is a true Renaissance girl—an artist, athlete, and the youngest official volunteer of the Hot Springs Area Cultural Alliance (HSACA). During the 2024 Arts & The Park festival last April, Livie lent a helping hand with the Cutwell 4 Kids Graffiti Wall, created by Anthony Tidwell, fearlessly braved the rain, and even took a well-earned
“VOV 21st Anniversary Tiger” Artist: Shelby Wylie (Fountain Lake Charter High School) When Low Key Arts (LKA) music festivals hit town, we often look to Sonny Kay, Executive Director of LKA, for inspiration for our cover art. When we asked if he had anything stunning in the art vault for Valley of the Vapors Music Festival he came up with this terrific tiger feature they’re using for Valley of the
“Lunar New Year” by Artist Longhua Xu. . . Artist’s Statement… by Longhua Xu Art comes from the soul of the artist. Inspired pieces come from inspired artists. February generally marks the Chinese Lunar New Year in the East and Valentine’s Day in the West, and this year I am inspired by my family. For the first time in several decades, both of my children are home – particularly my daughter
Paul Wineland – Jackson House Photography by Pam Clark As we kick off our 33rd year of publishing, we’re honoring the spirit of volunteering, leadership, commitment to a cause, and giving back to the community. Paul Wineland, our cover feature, is a shining example of these qualities. His decision to volunteer stems from a desire to give back to Jackson House, an organization that once supported him. Thanks to Pam
by Pam ClarkA big thank you to photographer extraordinaire Pam Clark for the delightful Santa photo! He’s waiting to meet you out at Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs. Wishing you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, a joyful Kwanzaa, and a blessed holiday season! (Did we cover all of them?) It’s been such a pleasure working with you all this year, and we’re truly grateful for your support and collaboration.
Our November issue pays tribute to our veterans, shining a spotlight on the incredible contributions of local veteran artists. We honor their service and creativity, showcasing their unique perspectives through art. A special thanks goes to Richard Stephens, not only a veteran but our long-time curator of cover designs. It’s fitting that his artwork “Fall”, graces this month’s cover, representing both his military service and artistic talent. We extend our
Space Cowboy A film about skydiver and cinematographer Joe Jennings, directed by Marah Strauch and Bryce Leavitt October in Hot Springs is brimming with festivals, and The Springs Magazine is thrilled to feature one of this year’s highlights on our cover. Celebrating its 33rd year, our Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival is the longest-running documentary film festival in the country. For many years, The Springs has had the honor of including
No spam, notifications only about Arts, Entertainment & Wellness In Hot Springs, AR.
“Brady Roseberry” Featured at the Big Steam & Roots Music Festival Photography by Jay Hiatt FIRST – Check out the Gallery Walk $250 Gift Card Giveaway on Pg. 4! Hello, Hot Springs! As we lean into the autumn equinox, we’re celebrating with a burst of blues, hometown pride, and one seriously striking cover. This month features
By Jennifer Case By Erin Wood The Carework Project: Reckoning with Love, Labor, and the Living World is the third book by Conway resident and University of Central Arkansas creative writing professor Jennifer Case, released last month from Trinity University Press. Combining elements of memoir, collage, interview, research, and cultural reflection, The Carework Project probes what care
Can you find this mural in downtown Hot Springs? Text a selfie in front of it to receive a free drop-in at The Yoga Place for any class in September. 501-651-0545. Photo by Missy Conry. By Missy Conry & Melissa Stevens In yoga, balance is about more than simply standing on one
The transition into autumn signals the busy back-to-school shopping season. As autumn approaches, style is taking a richer turn, and The Velvet Attic Boutique is bringing the season’s changing look to downtown Hot Springs. Their curated autumn lineup mixes seasonal colors, balances rich textures and versatile layers, and features transition-ready
