The collection holds objects from such historically recognized artists such as Rembrandt, Pablo Picasso, Odilon Redon, Andrew Wyeth, and Edgar Degas.

The museum opened in 1937 in an Art Deco building constructed by the Works Progress Administration and designed by architect H. Ray Burks.

[3][4] Located in MacArthur Park, the original building features a limestone façade designed by Little Rock artist Benjamin D. Brantley and two carved relief figures, Painting and Sculpture personified.

[5] In 2016, architecture and urban design firm Studio Gang and landscape architect SCAPE were selected to reimagine the museum.

[6] A new central addition with a curving concrete structure and folded-plate roof spans the length of the building, improving the flow of visitors across the site.

[7] Blossoming out at the north and south ends, the central addition forms new entrances and public spaces that connect to the surrounding park and city beyond.

[4] The original Art Deco façade, which had become concealed by earlier additions, has been returned as the museum's main entrance.