The First University Art School in Arkansas

The Walton Family Charitable Support Foundation recently gave a $120 million donation to the University of Arkansas to be used to establish the very first art school in the state of Arkansas. The donation is reported the largest ever to be pledged towards the establishment of an art school in the United States.

The University of Arkansas is located 30 minutes from the Walton’s family business [Walmart] headquarters. This gift will help to expand graduate programs with degrees in art history, art education, and graphic design. Portions will be allocated for financial aid to incoming students. The fine arts library and art centers will receive money for renovations.

Florida Atlantic University has a connection to this story. Jeannie Hulen, who is currently the Chair of the Department of Art and Associate Professor of Ceramics at the University of Arkansas., was the visiting artist for the FAU ceramics department from 2000-2002. 

With reports of shrinking art budgets and programs nationwide, this is welcomed news. 

(image credit: Diane Arrieta)