As hosts of Tabriz XXV, Terri and David Snowden embrace the Arkansas Arts Center’s rich history and look forward to its bright future as the center for arts in Arkansas.
By Kim Meyer-Webb | Photography by Sara Reeves | Set Design by Zachariah Reeves | Hair by Maddy Spring with Face Your Day Salon | Makeup by Kurstee Smith with Face Your Day Salon | Earrings from Sissy’s Log Cabin
Since its inception, the Arkansas Arts Center has welcomed the community to celebrate and foster the arts. What began at the turn of the century as the Fine Arts Club of Arkansas continues to evolve and prosper to enrich the lives of all Arkansans. From the creation of the Museum of Fine Arts to its grand opening festivities nearly 50 years ago, the vision of the Arkansas Arts Center – a beacon for arts education as well as a catalyst for civic and cultural development across the state – is unwavering.
As hosts of Tabriz XXV, Terri and David Snowden embrace the Arts Center’s rich history and look forward to its bright future. They promise an evening of dazzling delights that “feels like a love letter to all things New York and Broadway,” according to Director of Development Kelly Fleming. It’s reminiscent of the formal debut of the Arkansas Arts Center and its first exhibition featuring 62 European Masterworks from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. “Tabriz, originally known as Beaux Arts Ball, is considered the ‘grand ole dame’ of galas in Arkansas. Its proceeds have helped build a superb international collection and supported important programming for a half of a century.”
Terri notes her adoration for Broadway and the intrinsic drama of the Big Apple provided ample inspiration for this silver anniversary celebration, “What’s not to love about New York City?” Terri asks. “It always fuels my passion for painting, design, theater and the arts. The 25th anniversary of Tabriz seems like the perfect occasion to bring that glamour to our capital city.” Guests can expect an intimate dinner with the moon and stars shining down on a recreation of New York City’s beloved neighborhoods, from Central Park to SoHo. An anticipated highlight of the evening is a performance by The Midtown Men, better known as the original Tony Award-winning Broadway cast of Jersey Boys.
Fellow patron and friend Cindy Feltus introduced Terri to the Arts Center as the center for arts in Arkansas. “There’s so much more to the Arts Center than being a museum of art – which contains one of the most astounding collections of works on paper in the country,” Terri notes. “I quickly realized the educational programming offered through the Museum School as well as the Artmobile is invaluable to bringing the arts to life throughout our state.” The Artmobile delivers an authentic arts experience to rural communities throughout Arkansas. This unique “gallery on wheels” is one of only a few mobile museums in the country and introduces a diverse population to the transformative power of art.
As the Arkansas Arts Center embarks on an exciting renovation and expansion project, Executive Director Todd Herman believes the mission fulfillment work of the Arts Center remains steadfast. “Our goal is to become the ‘cultural living room’ for Central Arkansas,” Todd explains. “We want to remain a safe and welcoming place for education, art and creativity that strengthens our civic fabric and social discourse. Terri and David Snowden are dedicated patrons whose commitment to improving the programming and amenities of the Arts Center spans beyond our facility into communities across the state.”
A St. Louis native, Terri’s Midwestern charm is undeniable – she’s as fun and refreshing as the crisp, cold glass of rosé we enjoyed after a fabulous afternoon of photography. Her devotion to the Natural State and the welfare of others is resolute. She’s called Arkansas home for most of her life and met her husband at the University of Arkansas. Terri admits David, a lifelong resident of the Capital City, “enthusiastically agreed to co-chair Tabriz XXV.” Todd notes that civic leadership is a family affair for the Snowdens. “They have been involved with the Arts Center for decades, following the footsteps of David’s parents. It’s wonderful that their daughter Anne-Elizabeth, the next generation, has helped with Tabriz this year.” Terri’s commitment to her family and this community comprise the essence of her soul. “I always wanted a happy, healthy family,” Terri reflects. “My mother is a strong and amazing lady – she instilled in me a heart for service, and finding a deeper meaning in life is a daily reminder that family extends beyond the home.”
It’s the Arts Center’s integrated approach to art appreciation that impresses Terri. “There are activities for children – from a variety of art classes to performances throughout the year at the Children’s Theatre – and there are always special exhibits that will spark the imagination and inspire patrons of all ages.” She recognizes the role of the AAC leadership in the initiative to remain relevant and truly creative – in continued service to its constituents. “As Arkansans, the Arkansas Arts Center is ours to honor and cherish. During a time when an emphasis on arts education and appreciation is diminishing, it’s more important than ever to celebrate the role of the Arts Center in our community and continue the legacy.”
