Visit Northwest Arkansas Archives - grace grits and gardening

Thorncrown Chapel

We visited Thorncrown Chapel while the leaves were turning. Nestled in the Ozarks just outside Eureka Springs, Thorncrown Chapel is one of the most stunning and iconic structures in Arkansas. Today, I’m bringing it to you.

Woo-hoo!

Arkansas’s own brilliant architect, E. Fay Jones, designed Thorncrown Chapel using native woodland elements. The 48-foot tall structure consists of 425 windows totaling over 6,000 square feet of glass. So much glass brings the surrounding Ozark forest inside.

Inside your mind and heart.

Thorncrown Chapel

Because of the marvel of the design, Thorncrown Chapel never looks the same inside or out. Hour to hour, day to day, season to season, surrounding nature is an important part of the overall experience. Continue Reading

Chihuly in the Forest

On Black Friday, my son and I visited Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. He wanted to see the Stuart Davis exhibit and while I was a bit under the weather, I wanted to spend time with him. Plus, I’d not yet seen Chihuly in the Forest. So off we went.

Tomorrow (November 27) is the last day for Chihuly in the Forest. Thanks to Tate, I saw it. (A few years ago, John and I visited Chihuly Garden and Glass in Seattle. Go, if you get the chance. It is an incredible experience.) Go to Crystal Bridges today or tonight or tomorrow, if you can. If you can’t, take a look at these pictures and pretend you’re there.

As if the Ozark forest isn’t stunning enough, add Chihuly glass and the forest becomes downright magical.Continue Reading