
BENTONVILLE, Ark. — The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is celebrating the opening of its newest exhibition, Exquisite Creatures, with a weekend of events that honor the beauty of nature. On March 15, there will be a special opening lecture by the exhibition’s artist, Christopher Marley. KUAF News Director Kyle Kellam will host the lecture, which will delve into the incredible connection between art and nature.
The following day, as part of the museum’s free family day, Creature Fest, writer and avid birdwatcher Christian Cooper will give a captivating lecture on his acclaimed book “Better Living Through Birding.” Hosted by Good Day NWA’s Jaclyn House, this talk will showcase Christian’s unique perspective and passion for the avian world and bring a fresh and enlightening angle to the intersection of nature, art, and personal well-being.
Exquisite Creatures opening weekend, featuring lectures by Christopher Marley and Christian Cooper, along with a free family fun day, Creature Fest.
Friday, March 15
- Teacher Preview Night: Exquisite Creatures | 5 PM – 6 PM
- Exhibition Opening Talk: Exquisite Creatures with Christopher Marley | 6 PM – 7 PM
Saturday, March 16
- Lecture: Birding with Christian Cooper | 11 AM – 12 PM
- Creature Fest | 12 PM – 4 PM
Crystal Bridges | 600 Museum Way, Bentonville, AR 72712
Christopher Marley is an artist, naturalist, photographer, and author who uses preserved natural specimens as his medium. Christian Cooper is a New York Times best-selling author, host, and consulting producer for National Geographic’s hit series “Extraordinary Birder With Christian Cooper,” and an activist on issues of racial justice and LGBTQ equality.

Crystal Bridges is celebrating the opening of Exquisite Creatures and starting their spring break programming, Spring Break Specials.
Tickets to the Exquisite Creatures exhibition are $12 for adults. Members, SNAP participants, Veterans, and youth 18 and under are free. Tickets for Christopher Marley’s lecture are $30 ($25 for members). Tickets for Christian Cooper’s lecture are $30 ($24 for members and $5 for students). To purchase a ticket, please visit the museum’s website.
The exhibition will be on display at Crystal Bridges from March 16 to July 29, 2024. It showcases over 400 preserved specimens of plants, animals, and minerals, including crystals, lizards, beetles, parrots, butterflies, crabs, and more. The specimens are arranged in stunning geometric patterns, making it a visually captivating experience.
Exquisite Creatures is sponsored by The Coca-Cola Company, Serfco, Gelmart, and Marybeth and Micky Mayfield.

(photos courtesy of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.)