Experience The Momentary: Art, Music, & Community In Bentonville
Nestled in the heart of downtown Bentonville, Arkansas, The Momentary stands as a vibrant beacon of contemporary art, groundbreaking music, and dynamic community engagement. More than just a venue, it's a living, breathing space where creativity is fostered, boundaries are pushed, and connections are forged. Since its grand opening, The Momentary has redefined the cultural landscape of Northwest Arkansas, inviting locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in experiences that are both thought-provoking and deeply joyful.
This unique institution, a satellite to the renowned Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, embodies a vision where the "art of the moment" is celebrated in all its forms. From nationally acclaimed artists pushing the limits of visual expression to homegrown musicians filling the air with captivating melodies, The Momentary truly brings together the most impactful acts of our time. It’s a place where every visit offers something new, something unexpected, something that resonates long after you’ve left its hallowed grounds.
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The Momentary: A Vision Realized
The story of The Momentary began with a profound vision: to enhance the quality of life in Northwest Arkansas through accessible art and cultural experiences. Founded by the Walton family, specifically inspired by the foresight of Tom, Olivia, and Steuart Walton, and supported by the Walton Family Foundation, this ambitious project transformed a decommissioned cheese factory into a dynamic cultural hub. It officially opened its doors to the public on February 22, 2020, immediately making a splash with its inaugural performing arts festival, "Time Being," alongside a second iteration of the "State of the Art" exhibition and the "Inverse Performance Arts Festival."
This transformation wasn't just about constructing a building; it was about creating a catalyst for creativity and economic vitality in downtown Bentonville. The Momentary was conceived as an extension to Crystal Bridges, but with its own distinct identity – a "living room" where the community could gather, be inspired, connect, and find joy. Its very existence is a testament to the belief that art and culture are not luxuries but essential components of a thriving community, fostering dialogue, understanding, and shared experiences.
A Symphony of Sounds: Music at The Momentary
Music truly runs deep in all that is done at The Momentary. From the very beginning, it was clear that this venue would be a premier destination for live music, attracting a diverse array of talent and audiences. Whether you're a fan of indie, funk, metal, folk, or anything in between, The Momentary's music programming is designed to offer something for every taste, cementing its reputation as a must-visit spot for music lovers.
Live on the Green and Røde House Series
The Momentary has quickly become synonymous with unforgettable concert experiences, largely thanks to its two flagship music series: the outdoor "Live on the Green" and the indoor "Røde House Music Series." These series feature major artists, free community events, and exclusive member perks, ensuring that music is accessible and exciting for everyone. The venue's commitment to showcasing top-tier talent is evident in its programming announcements, with the first wave of 2025 music programming already revealed, promising another year of stellar performances.
- Reasonable Doubt Cast
- Morris Chestnut Movies And Tv Shows
- Melika Foroutan
- Carolina Ram%C3%ADrez
- Rachel House
- Live on the Green: Imagine kicking back on the expansive outdoor greenspace, "The Momentary Green," experiencing today’s top artists under the open sky. This series brings together some of the most impactful musical acts of the past several decades, creating an unparalleled atmosphere for large-scale concerts. Past events have seen the campus close early to prepare for highly anticipated shows, such as the Alabama Shakes concert, highlighting the scale and excitement of these outdoor gatherings.
- Røde House Music Series: For a more intimate yet equally powerful experience, the indoor Røde House offers a unique setting. This series often features artists known for their stirring, atmospheric live concerts, allowing for a deeper connection between performer and audience. It's here that you might discover your next favorite band or witness a celebrated artist's performance in a truly captivating environment.
Diverse Genres and Acclaimed Artists
The breadth of musical talent hosted by The Momentary is truly impressive. It's not uncommon to find a lineup that spans multiple genres in a single season, reflecting the venue's commitment to musical exploration and discovery. The "Data Kalimat" provided hints at the caliber of artists, mentioning a performer with "six celebrated studio albums, sweeping international tours with his band, and past performances alongside national symphony orchestras," who has "built a devoted following drawn to his stirring, atmospheric live concerts." This exemplifies the kind of high-quality, impactful acts that grace the stages of The Momentary.
Whether you're exploring the full concert calendar to grab your tickets before they sell out, or simply checking out what’s coming next, The Momentary consistently delivers. Their commitment to showcasing both nationally acclaimed artists and homegrown musicians ensures a rich tapestry of sounds that resonates with all who visit. Discovering venue details, the calendar, and more through platforms like Jambase makes it easy to stay updated on upcoming concerts at The Momentary in Bentonville, AR.
The Art of The Moment: Contemporary Exhibitions
While music is a cornerstone, The Momentary is fundamentally a new contemporary art space. It serves as a vital platform for artists working on the edge, providing them with the space to share their work and develop ideas with audiences. This isn't your traditional museum; it's a dynamic environment where art is alive, evolving, and often interactive. The exhibitions at The Momentary are known for their thoughtful experimentation and play, pushing the boundaries of what art can be.
The venue's commitment to contemporary art means that visitors are consistently exposed to cutting-edge works that challenge perspectives and spark conversation. From large-scale installations to intimate conceptual pieces, the art programming at The Momentary is designed to engage, provoke, and inspire. It’s a place where collaborative exchange is encouraged, allowing artists and audiences to grow together in their understanding and appreciation of modern artistic expression.
Performance That Pushes Boundaries
Beyond traditional exhibitions and concerts, performance at The Momentary is a distinct and powerful element, spanning a wide range of live and experiential media. It’s about more than just watching; it’s about experiencing. This commitment to innovative performance art sets The Momentary apart, offering unique opportunities for engagement that defy easy categorization.
Immersive Storytelling with Bandaloop
A prime example of this boundary-pushing performance is the return of vertical performance artists Bandaloop. Fresh from Broadway and the international stage, Bandaloop brings immersive storytelling and groundbreaking creativity to The Momentary. Their gravity-defying acts, often performed on the exterior of the building, transform the architecture itself into a stage, creating breathtaking spectacles that are both visually stunning and deeply narrative. These performances are a testament to The Momentary's dedication to showcasing art that is truly experiential and unforgettable.
The Momentary as a Community Living Room
One of the most defining aspects of The Momentary is its role as a true community hub. It’s been affectionately described as "a living room" where the community gathers to be inspired, connected, and joyful. This ethos is woven into every aspect of its operation, from its accessible campus general admission, which is always free, to its inclusive event programming. The Momentary is not just for art connoisseurs or music enthusiasts; it's for everyone.
Inclusive Events and Partnerships
The Momentary actively seeks partnerships that enhance its community impact. A notable example is its collaboration with NWA Equality. On Saturday, June 7th, this partnership saw The Momentary campus filled with a vibrant lineup of music, film, and food events open to all. From a musical film festival to an outdoor picnic on the green, there were plenty of ways to get inspired, have fun, and celebrate the art, culture, history, and people of the region. These events underscore The Momentary’s commitment to being a truly inclusive space where diverse communities feel welcome and celebrated.
The venue’s accessible design also contributes to its community-centric approach. For instance, access to the Tower Bar, located on the sixth level of The Momentary, is conveniently via the elevator at the south entrance of the tower, making it easy for patrons to enjoy the views and ambiance. This thoughtful design ensures that the space is welcoming and navigable for all visitors.
Planning Your Visit to The Momentary
Located in downtown Bentonville, Arkansas, The Momentary is easily accessible and offers various ways to engage with its offerings. Whether you're planning a full day of exploration or just a quick stop, here’s what you need to know:
- Location: Downtown Bentonville, Arkansas.
- General Admission: Campus general admission is always free, making art and culture accessible to everyone.
- Operating Hours:
- Tuesday—Thursday & Sunday: 10 am—6 pm
- Friday—Saturday: 10 am—12 am
- Monday: Closed
- Note: The Tower Bar (located on the sixth level) is typically for those 21 and older after 5 pm. Specific event hours may vary, such as the early closing at 3 pm on Tuesday, July 22, to prepare for the Alabama Shakes concert.
- Getting Tickets: For upcoming concerts and special events, it's highly recommended to explore the full concert calendar and grab your tickets before they sell out. You can find tickets for upcoming concerts at The Momentary in Bentonville, AR, and discover venue details, calendar, and more with resources like Jambase.
- Stay Connected: The Momentary maintains a strong online presence, making it easy to stay updated on their latest programming and events. You can follow The Momentary on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Spotify, and Twitter for real-time updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses.
The Momentary is truly a place where you can kick back and experience today’s top artists, engage with thought-provoking art, and connect with a vibrant community. It’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to enrich their cultural experience in Northwest Arkansas.
A Tribute to the Land
In a profound gesture of respect and acknowledgement, The Momentary recognizes and pays respect to the Osage, Caddo, and Quapaw people and elders past, present, and future. This deep gratitude is extended to the ancestral land and water that supports the institution, highlighting a commitment to historical awareness and cultural sensitivity. This acknowledgement is a powerful reminder of the rich history and indigenous heritage of the region, grounding The Momentary not just in contemporary culture but also in the deep roots of the land it occupies.
The Momentary: Your Place to Be
In conclusion, The Momentary is far more than just a contemporary art space or a music venue; it is a cultural anchor that fosters creativity, community, and connection in Northwest Arkansas. From its ambitious music programming featuring major artists and diverse genres, to its boundary-pushing contemporary art exhibitions and experiential performances, The Momentary consistently delivers unique and impactful experiences. Its commitment to being a "living room" for the community, with free general admission and inclusive events, truly embodies its mission to enhance the quality of life in the region.
So, next time you’re in downtown Bentonville, Arkansas, make The Momentary your place to be. Explore its summer concert lineup, discover what’s coming next in its art galleries, or simply enjoy a moment of reflection in its vibrant spaces. We encourage you to visit their official channels for the latest programming, share your experiences on social media, and perhaps even plan your next cultural outing around their dynamic calendar. What aspect of The Momentary are you most excited to experience? Let us know in the comments below!
The Momentary
MMNT002 | Various Artists | Momentary Records
The Momentary - Explore - Downtown Bentonville Inc.
