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Buckyball: Where Art Meets Science

A dazzling fusion of art and science, Buckyball at Crystal Bridges is a must-see illuminated sculpture that captivates day and night.

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The Buckyball at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a striking sculpture by Leo Villareal, resembling a Carbon 60 molecule. Covered in LED lights, it creates mesmerizing displays of color, especially vibrant after dark, and has become a popular landmark and gathering spot on the museum grounds.

A brief summary to Buckyball At Crystal Bridges

Local tips

  • Visit after dark to experience the full vibrancy of Buckyball's colorful light display, which creates a magical atmosphere.
  • Check the Crystal Bridges website for special events or community bike rides that may be happening near Buckyball.
  • Explore the Crystal Bridges trails and grounds surrounding Buckyball, open from sunrise to sunset, for a complete experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From downtown Bentonville, head towards the Bentonville square, then walk east on Central Avenue. Continue onto Museum Way. Crystal Bridges Museum will be on your left. Buckyball is located on the museum grounds. Admission to the museum and grounds is free.

  • Public Transport

    Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) provides public transportation in Bentonville. Check the ORT website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules to reach Crystal Bridges Museum. From the bus stop, follow signs to the museum entrance. Buckyball is located on the museum grounds. A single ride fare is typically around $1.25.

  • Driving

    From I-49, take exit 86 for US-62/US-71B toward Bentonville/Rogers. Follow signs for Bentonville and merge onto US-71B N/S Walton Blvd. Turn left onto Crystal Bridges Blvd, then turn left onto Museum Way. Follow the signs for museum parking. Free parking is available at the museum's main parking garage and the Campus Parking complex. During busy times, a free shuttle service runs from the Campus Parking to the museum entrance. Buckyball is located on the museum grounds. EV charging stations are available for $0.60/hour.

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Discover more about Buckyball At Crystal Bridges

Buckyball, a captivating sculpture by Leo Villareal, stands proudly on the grounds of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas. This impressive structure features two nested geometric spheres, ingeniously designed to mimic the shape of a Carbon 60 molecule, also known as a Fullerene. The sculpture pays homage to Buckminster Fuller, whose geodesic domes inspired its design; spherical Fullerenes are even nicknamed "buckyballs". Covered in LED tubes, Buckyball is capable of producing a stunning 16 million distinct colors. The artist uses computer software to create ever-changing displays of moving light and color. During the day, the sculpture exhibits a more subdued white light pattern. However, as dusk approaches, Buckyball transforms into a vibrant spectacle, illuminating the museum's entrance and drawing visitors into its radiant glow. The mesmerizing light show continues until 11 p.m. nightly, creating a celebratory and meditative experience. Buckyball has become a beloved landmark, embodying the intersection of art, science, and technology. It serves as a testament to the power of public art, connecting people and creating communal experiences. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding amenities of Crystal Bridges, including its world-class art museum, scenic trails, and tranquil outdoor areas.

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