Share This Article
The city of Yellville will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow for murals painted by local artist Duane Hada.
The ceremony begins at noon at the Marion County Courthouse Annex on South Berry Street. It will showcase four murals commissioned by the city and county.
The artwork commemorates the Wild Turkey Restoration Project and honors regional conservation efforts. One mural depicts Bruno Ridge approaching Yellville, while another features the native smallmouth bass.
“These murals are really a celebration of our community’s commitment to conservation,” said Annette Pulis from Rivertown Gallery.
Community fundraising for the project happened quickly, according to Hada. Plaques naming contributors will be installed before the celebration.
Baxter Health also commissioned Hada to create a mural for their Ambulance Building in Yellville, located next to Carolyn’s Razorback Ribs.
This isn’t Hada’s first collaboration with Baxter Health. He recently unveiled a new mural for their newly remodeled emergency room, further establishing his artistic presence throughout the region.
Blacksheep BBQ will sell food during the hour-long ceremony.
Hada began his artistic journey in Boone County, developing an early connection to the Ozark landscape. His family moved to Hasty, near Jasper, when he was 13.
Despite showing natural talent, Hada didn’t take formal art classes until college at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. He later transferred to the University of Central Arkansas to pursue an education degree in art.
After teaching high school art for five years in Mena, Hada decided to become a full-time artist. He supported himself by becoming a certified fly fishing instructor and guide.
His work typically features trout and Ozark landscapes, often created through plein air painting — the practice of painting outdoors to capture natural light.
In 2022, Hada was inducted into the Arkansas Outdoor Hall of Fame for his contributions to art and conservation.
He currently operates Rivertown Gallery in Mountain Home, where he displays artwork, teaches students and accepts commissions.
The ceremony runs from noon to 1 p.m. For more information, contact Annette Pulis at Rivertown Gallery at 870-425-3898.
