The Cossatot Arts and Crafts Association Began In June of 1973.

The Cossatot Arts & Crafts Association, Inc.. was incorporated in June 1973.   The petition for incorporation stated the following purposes;   To further cultural and educational opportunities for artist and craftsmen to develop talents and skills and to foster greater public interest in and appreciation of arts and crafts.   "To aid in courage and when and where possible, in the opinion of the governing board, financing activities or programs in the territory of Servier County, Ark.,as a means of achieving the above."   "The objectives will be achieved by providing supervised programs to exhibit and promote the sale of work of artisans,craftsmen and for the enjoyment and enlightenment of all interested persons."   The supervisors shall bear in mind that the prime objective is to promote and develop the talents and skills of this area in a manner compatible with the mores of this area."   The association moved to make its regional art show an annual event.   Eddie and Lou Gray gave Harold Mabry $200 to get the Cossatot Art Show started 36 years ago. The first year's show was held at the De Queen Clinic building.

She said he came back the second year and they believed there was a need for culture so they contributed again and ever since the organization stood on its own feet with the help of  local sponsors.   With acquisition of the old King school building, the association's Art Center became a reality, and all subsequent shows were held there.   The name "Cossatot" was chosen for the association's title because of its prominent place in the history of southwest Arkansas, and specifically Seveier County.   It is considered one of the most beautiful streams in the entire state, and has been the subject of literally thousands of paintings throughout the years.   Some of the pioneers of the association included Velna Jo Daniel, Kaye Blackmon, Neldene Smith, lorene Hendricks, Jim Hick, Winnie Sibert, Kittie Hughes, and many others.       The current CACA board commends all those who have worked to keep their dream alive.   The Cossatot Art Center ,coincidentally, is less than four miles west of the stream, almost due west of Ladd Bridge.

BACK TO HOME PAGE