Much like the city of Bentonville itself, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is evolving at a remarkable pace. While anticipation builds for the museum’s forthcoming 114,000-square-foot expansion—set to open next spring—two new, seemingly unexpected buildings have recently joined the 134-acre campus: a newly opened office space for a healthcare-focused nonprofit, and a medical school that just welcomed its first class of 48 students. At first glance, these developments might appear disconnected from the museum’s core mission. But for founder Alice Walton, they’re part of a broader, deeply personal vision.
Art and healthcare have long been intertwined passions for Walton, who has championed both as essential pillars for individual and community wellbeing. “I've always very deeply, personally known the power of art in mental health and wellbeing,” she says, reflecting on her own recovery journey after a life-altering car accident. That experience, combined with a commitment to improving healthcare access in Arkansas, especially for rural communities, continues to drive her work. “Quality healthcare is the last major hole we have in this region,” Walton explains. “I felt like it was time to really try to do something to fill the gap.”
