The Momentary - AR

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the Momentary in Bentonville used to be?

The Momentary in Bentonville, AR, is a contemporary art space that was repurposed from a former cheese factory. Originally built in 1947 for Kraft Foods, the building operated as a cheese processing plant for decades before being reimagined into a vibrant cultural hub. Today, the Momentary offers visitors a unique blend of industrial architecture and modern art installations, celebrating its rich history while serving as a dynamic venue for visual arts, performances, culinary experiences, and festivals. The transformation preserves the building's heritage, making it a distinctive destination for art lovers and event-goers in Northwest Arkansas.

Is the Momentary an outside venue?

The Momentary in Bentonville, AR, is a versatile venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces. While it is not exclusively an outside venue, the Momentary features expansive outdoor areas such as the Momentary Green and the Tower, which are frequently used for concerts, festivals, and community events. These open-air spaces allow guests to enjoy performances and art installations in a scenic setting. Additionally, the venue offers indoor galleries, performance halls, and event spaces, making it suitable for year-round programming regardless of weather. This blend of indoor and outdoor environments makes the Momentary a flexible and inviting destination for all kinds of events.

How many people does the Momentary hold?

The Momentary in Bentonville, AR, boasts a flexible capacity, accommodating a range of events from intimate gatherings to large-scale performances. The venue's largest outdoor space, the Momentary Green, can hold up to 3,000 guests for concerts and festivals, making it ideal for major events. Indoor spaces, such as the RØDE House and Fermentation Hall, cater to smaller audiences, typically ranging from 70 to 350 people depending on the event setup. This adaptability allows the Momentary to host a diverse lineup of art exhibitions, live music, culinary experiences, and private events, attracting visitors from across Arkansas and beyond.

Who owns the Momentary Bentonville?

The Momentary in Bentonville, AR, is owned and operated by the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Funded by the Walton Family Foundation and established by philanthropist Alice Walton, Crystal Bridges expanded its commitment to arts and culture in Northwest Arkansas by creating the Momentary as a satellite contemporary art space. The Momentary operates as a nonprofit and is dedicated to presenting contemporary visual, performing, and culinary arts. Its ownership by Crystal Bridges ensures a strong foundation in community engagement, artistic innovation, and cultural enrichment for Bentonville and the broader region.