Crystal Bridges Museum of Art – Meet the KAWS: Family
Looking for a fun getaway you can make in a day? A short trip into “The Natural State” of Arkansas will take you to an extraordinary destination that the whole family will enjoy. Crystal Bridges Museum of Art in Bentonville boasts an outstanding collection of American art and exhibitions, awe-inspiring architecture, and 134 acres of Ozark nature to explore.
Now through July 28, 2025, the iconic KAWS: Family is on exhibit, created by artist Brian Donnelly, professionally known as KAWS. His work has become familiar around the globe for its pop culture references and modern social relevance. KAWS created a unique cast of characters, each with their own distinct personality, brought to life beginning in the late 1990s in 2D, ultimately evolving into 3D figures and sculptures. The exhibit was organized by the Art Gallery of Ontario and features sculptures, paintings, drawings and brand collaborations.
Kids of all ages will love the KAWS works, whether they are already familiar with them or meeting them for the first time. Alejo Benebetti, Curator of Contemporary Art at Crystal Bridges, describes KAWS’ popularity as accessible to all.
“His work exists beyond art-specific spaces,” Benebetti says. “You’ll see people wearing a KAWS shirt or shoes in the cereal aisle at the grocery store, or as a balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. His work is exciting in that it does exist in these spheres and the way that we’re able to interact with it.”
KAWS’ work speaks in the language of cartoons, Benebetti explained. “It’s a language we all speak. We’re all familiar with it. The way KAWS plays with this and the way we relate to the characters is really the crux of this exhibit.”
General admission to Crystal Bridges is always free, and tickets for the KAWS exhibit are $15 (free for members, as well as ages 25 and younger. Other discounts available). There are multiple exhibit events on specific dates, including tours and talks. A schedule of events related to the exhibit is available at crystalbridges.org.
Photo courtesy CBMO Creative
More to Experience
A visit to Crystal Bridges is always a memorable experience. Architectural enthusiasts may enjoy its stunning exterior and interior artistry. Designed by architect Moshe Safdie, the museum structures embrace the beauty of the surrounding grounds with the intent of immersion with nature. Additionally onsite is an architectural wonder designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright – a classic Usonian house.
Expansive gardens and more than five miles of trails also beckon the curious explorer to wander, extending the museum’s reach into the wooded acreage. A trip to Crystal Bridges meets all the criteria for a perfect day’s getaway to make lifelong memories. It’s close, it’s affordable and it’s amazing.
Crystal Bridges is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays. The trails and grounds are open from sunrise to sunset daily, and during museum operating hours. Plan your visit at crystalbridges.org.
While You’re There: Visit Bentonville!
- Historic Downtown Square: dining, shopping, bakeries and coffee shops, community art (visitbentonville.com)
- The Walmart Museum (corporate.walmart.com)
- Museum of Native American History (monah.org)
- The Momentary: contemporary visual, performing and culinary arts (themomentary.org)
