Creating Divinity From the Discarded

By Heidi Kirk

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. (UATV) — The Walton Arts Center is in the process of working with local artists and designers for a unique exhibition showcasing up-cycled and recycled fashion. The exhibition was inspired by an upcoming Broadway show at the Walton Arts Center featuring similar costuming choices. The show is called Once on This Island and is the winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. 

The show is a unique retelling on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid. The exhibition will feature garments that are made from sustainable materials to reflect the similar costume choices in the performance. The exhibition has been named Divinity from the Discarded.

“We are always looking for ways to connect our shows that we are putting on here to our community,” said Jennifer Wilson, public relations director of the Walton Arts Center.

Wilson commented that Northwest Arkansas has quite the fashion-forward community and hopes that their project will engage those individuals. 

Costume designer Clint Ramos was challenged to incorporate found materials into his designs to complement the setting of the play which takes place on a hurricane damaged island.   

The line-up of artists to be featured will be announced on Friday, Jan. 31 and the exhibition will go up on January 3rd and runs through the 17th in the lobby of the Walton Arts Center.

Tickets for Once on This Island start at $40 plus applicable fees. Student tickets will be offered for $25. Tickets can be purchased in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office or by calling 479.443.5600. 

Jahmaul Bakare as ‘Agwe’ in the North American Tour of “Once On This Island.”
Courtesy: Walton Arts Center