Volunteer Docents lead tours for school students and groups, providing visitors with the opportunity to learn more about art.  Docents also assist with education programs that are designed for schools, families and the general public.“Docents are essential to the Arts Center’s educational mission,” said Curator of Education Louise Palermo.  “Docents offer invaluable educational experiences to students, families and other visitors by exposing them to art and bringing the Arts Center’s collection to life!” Docent training will be held on Saturdays from 8:30 to noon beginning January 7, 2012, at the Arkansas Arts Center.   Docent training lasts 16 weeks (excluding holidays) and consists of a short art history class, hands-on experiences and tour training.  No prior knowledge or experience is required.

“We are excited to offer docent training on Saturday mornings in order to accommodate those who have a busy schedule,” said Palermo.  “Our Docent program is open to anyone willing to learn and teach others about art.”             For more information and to set up a preliminary interview, call the Curator of Education at 501-396-0367 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

In memory of Sally A. Williams, who served as the Arkansas Arts Council's Artist Services Manager for 25 years before her passing on April 20, 2010, the Arts Council has established theSally A. Williams Artist Fund. Funding for this program includes donations from Williams's family and friends, proceeds from the sale of Williams's artwork following her death and Arts Council funding.

The Arts Council has chosen to announce the first round of grants in October to celebrate Williams's birth month."Sally was a visual artist who expressed her passion for art in both her personal and professional life," said Joy Pennington, executive director of the Arkansas Arts Council. "Sally asked that donations in her memory be made to the Arts Council, and we could think of no better way to honor her than to assist the Arkansas artists whom she cared about so deeply.

"Artist assistance grants of up to $500 are available to Arkansas artists in the literary, performing and visual arts fields. The application process will be ongoing as long as funding is available. To date, the fund has raised more than $33,000.

Applications are available at www.arkansasarts.org or by contacting Robin McClea at 501-324-9766 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Projects may include: Registration or travel to a conference, retreat, symposium or workshop that will enhance the professional work of the recipient.Consulting fees for establishing or growing the recipient's art-related business, e.g. marketing or business plan.To be eligible for individual artist assistance grants, an artist must be at least 21 years old and must have been an Arkansas resident for at least one year at the time of application.