Around Fort Smith, Arkansas, you can find some amazing pieces of public art. From monuments to murals and from sculptures to transformed buildings, you can 
find art at almost every corner. Here are six of the city’s outstanding artworks and projects.
- Darby Legacy Monument
Located in Cisterna Park on Garrison Avenue, the Darby Legacy Monument celebrates Fort Smith hero William Orlando Darby. He is credited with establishing the U.S. Army Rangers, which became known as Darby’s Rangers. In World War II, the elite combat unit distinguished itself in Europe and North Africa.
Shortly before the end of the war in 1945, Colonel Darby was killed in action in Italy. He was posthumously promoted to brigadier general in recognition of his gallantry in combat. Initially buried in Cisterna, Italy, his remains were later returned to his home town and reinterred in Fort Smith National Cemetery.
- The Unexpected
The Unexpected is a project to revitalize downtown Fort Smith through urban and contemporary art. The project started in 2015 and has grown to a collection of more than 30 pieces of permanent and semipermanent outdoor art.
Downtown Fort Smith has been transformed by artwork by renowned international artists such as Maser, Bordalo II, D’Face, Okuda San Miguel, Askew, and Ana Maria. The culmination of The Unexpected is a week-long annual festival in October that explores art, music, dance, and thought-provoking activities.
- The Rainbow Embassy
Artist Okuda San Miguel, one of today’s most recognized street artists, carried out the complete makeover of an unassuming abandoned house on North G Street. The resulting artwork is called the Rainbow Embassy. The colorful murals and geometric designs make for a bright and playful addition to the neighborhood.
- American Heroes
American Heroes is a piece of work created by Australian artist Guido Van Helten on the towers of a feed mill at 700 B Street. The artwork depicts Fort Smith locals, including a Navajo man, an African American woman who is a local business owner, and a WWII veteran who was employed at the feed mill until his retirement.
- Catira by Bicicleta Sem Freio
Bicicleta Sem Freio, which translates as bicycles without brakes, is a Brazilian duo. These artists specialize in large-scale expressive artwork using vibrant and expansive color palettes. Catira is a large mural on a building at 802 Garrison Avenue. It represents a typical Brazilian dance that is performed in rural areas by farmers and ranchers.
- Gateway Park
Gateway Park on Garrison Avenue has been created to act as the gateway to the downtown area of Fort Smith and features statues of prominent community leaders. The central sculpture is of the frontier judge, Isaac C. Parker, who represents law and order.
Alongside Judge Parker is John Carnall, who stands for public education. Joining these esteemed gentlemen is Mother Superior Teresa Farrell, who represents the establishment of healthcare. The park offers the opportunity for residents and visitors to learn about the contributions made by these three important citizens.
These are just a few of the stunning and inspirational works of art in downtown Fort Smith. A little exploration of the city will reveal many more.
Image via Pixabay
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