Sculpture at the River Market Unveils New Addition to Little Rock’s Public Art Collection
New sculpture by artist Craig Campbell installed at B. Finley Vinson Plaza
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (May 13, 2026) - The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB), in partnership with Sculpture at the River Market, unveiled Bear Tracks by artist Craig Campbell on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at the recently renovated and reopened B. Finley Vinson Plaza, located adjacent to Robinson Center.
Selected as the winning design for the 2025 Sculpture at the River Market Public Art Competition, Bear Tracks captures a lively moment of adventure and imagination through Campbell’s signature sense of motion and narrative. Positioned near the Arkansas River, the sculpture adds an imaginative new feature to Little Rock’s growing public art collection.
“For years, Riverfront Park has created places where people can gather and engage with Little Rock in memorable ways,” said Little Rock City Board Director Dr. Dean Kumpuris. “Over time, the Vogel Schwartz Sculpture Garden has become a beacon for public art — so much so that the collection has expanded throughout the city. A key part of our vision has been bridging art and nature in a welcoming environment, and Bear Tracks becomes a meaningful new chapter in Little Rock’s story. It’s whimsical, unexpected, and exactly the kind of installation that encourages people to pause, take a closer look, and appreciate the space around them.”
The inspiration behind Bear Tracks stemmed from a childhood memory Campbell shared of sitting with his grandfather, learning to whittle wood while listening to stories and songs about the outdoors. One lesson in particular stayed with him through the years: “If you go into the woods looking for a bear, you’ll never find him. But, if you sit quiet, he might just come around.”
That memory ultimately inspired the sculpture’s concept and spirit. Created through the traditional lost-wax bronze casting process, Bear Tracks reflects themes of curiosity, patience, and the untamed beauty of nature while inviting viewers to experience a sense of wonder from every angle.
“Little Rock is home to a vibrant creative culture, from sculptures and murals to attractions that bring visitors and residents together,” said LRCVB President & CEO Gina Gemberling. “Art has a unique way of fostering connection, and Bear Tracks brings an added sense of wonder and discovery to our community,” she added.
The installation reflects the ongoing partnership between the LRCVB and Sculpture at the River Market to further expand Little Rock’s public art collection while continuing to invest in dynamic public spaces across the city.
ABOUT THE LITTLE ROCK CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Little Rock, responsible for promoting the city for convention and leisure travel. The LRCVB also operates the Statehouse Convention Center, Robinson Center, Cromwell Building, and the River Market which includes Ottenheimer Hall, two open air pavilions, and the First Security Amphitheater, as well as multiple parking facilities. The LRCVB is primarily funded by the city’s lodging tax and prepared food tax. The organization has four primary divisions: Finance & Administration; Sales, Services, & Community Engagement; Marketing & Communications; and Facility Operations. For more information, visit here.