Dignitaries of the Arkansas250 Commission, Arkansas Arts Council, guests and art lovers alike will gather this Thursday, April 30, at the Old Statehouse Museum in downtown Little Rock for a very special unveiling.

In coordination with the state’s observance of the national commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, the unveiling will reveal the official Arkansas250 artwork by artist Barry Thomas. Thomas topped a field of 30 artists for the honor, in a statewide competition that was announced last fall.

“Art has always been one of the most powerful ways to tell a story, and this commissioned piece will help capture Arkansas’ role in America’s journey over the past 250 years,” said Shea Lewis, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage, and Tourism and chair of the Arkansas250 Commission.

“As we prepare for this milestone anniversary, we want to ensure Arkansas’ story is represented not just in words and exhibits, but also in a work of art that will endure for generations.”

The commissioned artwork is the latest in a series of events and activities undertaken by the Arkansas250 Commission, which has been working with local community leaders to encourage celebrations across Arkansas that reflect the state’s diverse history and people.

Festivities are set to begin at 10:30 a.m. To learn about Arkansas250, visit arkansasheritage.com/arkansas-250.

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