Jonesboro, AR – Jonesboro Right Now – City leaders and artists gathered Monday morning to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of the Foundation of Arts’ (FOA) newest mural and renovated tap room.

The mural, which sits on the back side of the FOA’s Arts Center, depicts ballerinas and deer dancing through a forest. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, officials said the color choice was initially chosen to be “vibrant” to help the mural withstand constant sun exposure.

It was painted by Natausha Light and was funded through a grant provided by the Arvest Foundation. Scott McDaniel with Show NEA lent equipment for painting the mural.

“You’re bringing something to life through the arts,” said FOA executive director Lynette Hirsch. “You’re creating something and bringing it to life, and so celebrating nature with that, it works together.”

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The mural sits in front of Rotary Club of Jonesboro Centennial Plaza in downtown Jonesboro, located at 355 S. Church St. Hirsch said it not only adds additional artwork to view while in the plaza, but can also be easily seen while driving down Church Street.

The renovated tap room, sponsored by Gearhead Outfitters, includes new flooring specifically designed for tap dancing, new mirror installations, and a fresh coat of paint.

The new mural and renovations come as the FOA celebrates 40 years of operation in 2026. Hirsch said the mural shows how the FOA works to engage with the community through the arts, whether that be through theater, music, stagecraft, or other art forms.

“It’s important to me that the arts is not seen as a luxury, and that accessibility for all who want to take part, and even those who may not even be aware now, that ‘Oh, the arts is for me, too.'” We want everyone to find a place of belonging here,” Hirsch said. “Let’s find what helps you express yourself.”

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