Crafty Arkansas shops

Southern Living, Apr 1998 by Stith, Mark G

Arkansas is home to some rather creative spirits. You can see the fruits of their labors-the pottery, jewelry, and other items-at any of the Arkansas Craft Galleries situated throughout the state.

These showcases serve as retail centers for some 300 members of the Arkansas Craft Guild. "All the products are screened by the guild's standards committee," says Linda Van Trump, executive director. "Members must meet stringent guidelines for craftsmanship and quality materials."

You'll also find blown glass, weavings, brooms, musical instruments, oak baskets, candles, dolls, toys, quilts, and other items. "There are five shops in the state, with the Fayetteville store (which opened in June 1995) being the newest," Linda says. "Each shop has different items; we try to feature the works of people from the surrounding area."

For example, in the Fayetteville gallery, I coveted a beautifully made oak rocking chair ($199) by Walter Trauth. I was enlightened by Anita Hejtmanek's box lamps ($100-$195), then dazzled by the glimmering etched copper earrings ($12) and distinctive intaglio prints ($150-$250 framed) by Sarah Bolerjack.

If I didn't have a fine homemade quilt already, Jeanie Wyant's schoolhouse quilt ($225) would be keeping me warm. And I couldn't resist rubbing the curves of Ed Sheppard's wooden bowls ($40$200) then looking at their bases to learn the wood's identity. A wall of pottery pieces offered up such treasures as David and Becki Dahlstedt's beautiful blue floral or green ivy brushwork juice pitchers ($26). One corner was devoted to handcrafted instruments. My favorites were the Native American cedar flutes ($60-$75) by Rick and Pat Heller.

"These galleries are a great way to support Arkansas artists," says Linda.

"It's a good way to get nice handmade objects."

And me? Let's just say I did my part to support the arts. Mark G. Stith Arkansas Craft Galleries: 33 Spring Street, Eureka Springs, (501) 253-7072; 518 West Dickson Street, Fayetteville, (501) 521-2016; Excelsior Hotel Lobby, 100 Markham Street, Little Rock, (501) 371-0841; 231A Central Avenue, Hot Springs, (501) 321-1640; Highways 5, 9, 14 North, Mountain View, (870) 269-3897. Typical gallery hours are 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily. The Fayetteville and Little Rock shops close Sundays. o