Construction has been continuing on a redevelopment of the Arkansas Arts Centre (AAC) by architecture firms Studio Gang and Scape in MacArthur Park.
Some 150 employees are working each day on the site in downtown Little Rock.
The project will use the original 1937 façade of the Museum of Fine Arts as its north entrance, with newer glass spaces integrated into it. The current art school at the south end of the development will be expanded, creating more gallery and studio space.
The Arkansas Arts Centre Foundation Collection includes 14,000 works of art from around the world.
Studio Gang says that over time the development will merge with the surrounding park, while combining the area’s three current attractions: a collection of works on paper, the museum school, and the children’s theatre.
A new public gallery and gathering space will be added, as well as a new visitor circulation throughout
Anthony Alleman, Pepper Construction’s project executive, said: "The Arkansas Arts Centre is one of the largest and most complex projects I’ve directed due to the integration of a one-of-a-kind custom addition as well as extensive renovations of the existing buildings and integrating new mechanical systems throughout the facility.
"Along with having an immediate impact on the local economy, the monumental project will attract people from throughout the region to visit the Arkansas Arts Centre and Little Rock for decades to come."
Victoria Ramirez, ACC project director, said: "With every decision we make about this project, we’re considering two critical things: First, what is the optimum environment for looking, making and enjoying art? Second, how do we create the most inspiring spaces for all visitors?"
The ACC is due to reopen in 2022.
Images courtesy of Studio Gang
