Entry 62: Annie Leibovitz at Crystal Bridges: A Journey Through American Art and Iconic Portraits

Earlier this year, I had the privilege of visiting the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas to experience the powerful Annie Leibovitz exhibition. It was a stunning walk through some of the most iconic portraits in American culture. Among my favorites? The unforgettable image of Bruce Springsteen astride his motorcycle in Paris and the charismatic shot of Arnold Schwarzenegger with a cigar, mounted on a white horse. Seeing these images up close was nothing short of awe-inspiring—an unforgettable visual journey into the power of portraiture.

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Crystal Bridges: A Cultural Gem in the Ozarks

Located in the heart of the Ozarks, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art was founded by philanthropist Alice Walton, daughter of Walmart founder Sam Walton. Since opening on November 11, 2011, the museum has become a cornerstone of American art in the South, offering free admission to its permanent collection and a vision centered around accessibility and education.

Designed by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie, the museum is as much a visual experience on the outside as it is within. Tucked into 120 acres of forested landscape, the building features dramatic bridges, walking trails, and natural spring-fed ponds. You’ll find artwork spanning from colonial portraits to contemporary installations, including pieces by Norman Rockwell, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and many more.

Annie Leibovitz: The Power of a Portrait

“When I say I want to photograph someone, what it really means is that I’d like to know them.”
– Annie Leibovitz

Leibovitz is one of the most influential portrait photographers of our time. She began her career in the early 1970s as a photojournalist for Rolling Stone, where she captured some of the era's most pivotal cultural and musical moments. Her bold, stylized portraits became her signature—whether photographing Queen Elizabeth II, Mick Jagger, or John Lennon and Yoko Ono just hours before Lennon’s death.

The exhibition at Crystal Bridges was a vivid collection of her most iconic and emotional work, showcasing her unique ability to connect with subjects and reveal the humanity within the celebrity.

Alice Walton: A Legacy Beyond Business

Alice Walton (b. October 7, 1949) might be best known as the daughter of Walmart’s founder, but her true legacy may lie in her dedication to philanthropy and the arts. She established Crystal Bridges not just to showcase art, but to make it accessible to everyone. In addition to her work in the art world, Walton also supports education, environmental efforts, and healthcare initiatives across the U.S.

Fun fact: Annie Leibovitz and Alice Walton were born just five days apart in 1949—two women who have reshaped culture through vastly different lenses.

Other Things to Do in the Area

The Momentary – A satellite to Crystal Bridges focused on contemporary art, performance, and culinary experiences.
Slaughter Pen Trail – A top-rated mountain biking trail just a short ride from the museum.
Compton Gardens and Arboretum – A peaceful, shaded spot with native Ozark plants and trails connecting directly to Crystal Bridges.
Walmart Museum – Learn about the origins of one of America’s largest companies, just a few blocks away on Bentonville Square.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat in Bentonville

Table Mesa Bistro – Upscale but relaxed Latin-fusion with options for the whole family.
The Buttered Biscuit – Local favorite for breakfast and brunch, with a warm and welcoming vibe.
Crepes Paulette – Fast-casual French-inspired crepes with sweet and savory options.
Big Orange – A modern burger joint known for creative flavor combos and thick milkshakes.

Entry 126: A Rainy Night, Birds at Dawn, and the Cozy Joy of Glamping at Ozark RV Park

If you’ve been thinking about trying glamping or need a peaceful base to explore Mountain View, Arkansas, let me share a place you’ll want to add to your list: Ozark RV Park and Cabins. Ozark RV Park & Cabins Call: 870-200-9090 The Glamping Tent I recently stayed in one of their glamping tents, and it was such a fun, comfortable experience. The tent is spacious, set up on a platform with a real bed (on a frame), crisp linens, a fan, air conditioning (yes, you get AC in a tent!), and a Keurig for that first warm cup of coffee in the morning. During my stay, it rained gently, and there is something incredible about falling asleep to the sound of rain on canvas while staying warm and cozy in bed. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds and crisp air, peeking outside to a misty, peaceful campground that felt like a breath of fresh air. The Big Park Sign & Rooster The bathhouse on-site deserves a shout-out. It has the nostalgic feel of a summer camp bathhouse but is immacul...

Entry 85: A Quirky Stop in Austin, MN: Exploring the Spam Museum and More

If you’re into quirky attractions and unexpected fun, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a must-see. Located at 101 3rd Ave NE , this one-of-a-kind destination has been drawing curious travelers and Spam fans since it opened in 1991. After a major expansion and relocation in 2016, the museum now offers an even more immersive and entertaining experience. A Taste of History Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods , and the museum walks you through how this humble canned meat became a global sensation. It played a major role during World War II , feeding troops across the globe and becoming a beloved staple in households everywhere. Inside the museum, you’ll find a blend of history, pop culture, and international flair . Learn how Spam became a hit in countries like South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. You'll also get a glimpse of the role Spam played in post-war culture and its place in today’s culinary world. Interactive Exhibits and More The Spam Museum is...

Entry 131: From Bonsai to Blooms: A Walk Through Portland’s Gardens

A Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden On a quiet morning in downtown Portland, a buddy and I decided to walk from our hotel to the Portland Japanese Garden. The route wound through the city and into Washington Park, and while it was uphill in spots, it was not bad at all. By the time we reached the entrance, we felt like we had already eased into the slower pace the garden promises. Even before I took ten steps inside, the city noise seemed to fade. The air felt cooler and fresher, like the garden had its own climate set apart from the bustle just outside its walls. The path curved gently ahead, leading us past moss-covered stones and neatly raked gravel beds. A small stream gurgled quietly under a wooden footbridge, the sound blending with the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Every turn revealed a new scene, a carefully placed lantern, a cluster of maple trees, or a pond where koi fish drifted lazily through the water. We followed the path uphill to a wide view of the city. Th...

Wanderings And Ponderings

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