Art Exhibit Opening

Join us for an exciting art gallery opening featuring the stunning works of Dani Ives, Shannon Smith, and Melissa Milton. This is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the creativity and talent of these amazing artists. Witness a fusion of colors, textures, and emotions come to life in each piece of art. Don't miss this chance to experience art in person and connect with fellow art enthusiasts. See you there!

Shannon P. Smith is a Black interdisciplinary artist exploring photography and sculpture through analog and alternative processes, alongside woodworking. Her work reflects on the fleeting nature of time, blending introspection and nostalgia. Originally from Detroit, she holds a BA in Television Production from Michigan State University and previously worked as a Script Supervisor in Los Angeles. She is currently pursuing her MFA in Studio Art at the University of Arkansas.

Melissa Milton is a mixed-media artist best known for her one-of-a-kind sculptures crafted from upcycled cardboard. She also works in alcohol inks and acrylics on canvas. Her art has been featured in British Vogue, British GQ, Studio Visit, At Home in Arkansas, and American Mensa magazines. Melissa’s work has illustrated the poetry collection Living Large, appeared on the cover of the 2022 Dairy Hollow Echo Writer’s Anthology, and was selected for the 2019 holiday card for The Dysautonomia Support Network. In 2023, she won a City of Fayetteville Public Art competition, with her piece projected as part of a six-artist installation on a seven-story building.

Dani Ives creates striking, wool-based portraits using a unique technique called needle felting — or as she affectionately calls it, Painting with Wool. Her work is featured in private commissions, gallery exhibitions, and art shows around the world. She’s the author of a book on the subject, leads popular online courses, and teaches in-person workshops internationally. Having taught thousands of students how to needle felt, Dani proves that anyone can learn this playful and expressive art form. Her workshops are lively, hands-on experiences — after all, what could be more satisfying than spending a few hours joyfully stabbing wool and walking away with something beautiful?