SIGN SHOWCASE: The Hot Springs Documentary Film Institute presents “The Making of a Masterpiece” today at the Historic Malco Theatre. Earlier in the week the HSDFI’s new signage was created and installed by Seiz Sign Co. at a new height and prominence on the building. In honor of the 20th anniversary of Hot Springs Gallery Walk that took place on Friday, “The Making Of A Masterpiece” will screen at 5:30 p.m. today presented by Hot Springs Documentary Film Institute.

The Historic Malco Theatre, 817 Central Ave., will be the site of the event and the audience will get a behind-the-scenes look at how the arts community became the “masterpiece” it is today.

Many of the original founders will attend the event along with present gallery owners and arts supporters. After the film, there will be an informal question-and-answer period.

Admission is free although donations will be appreciated.

To make the film, the EAST (Environmental and Spatial Technology) students conducted numerous personal/film interviews a few years ago under the guidance of Coach Dick Warrington of Fountain Lake High School focusing on the people and history of the early arts movement in
Hot Springs.

“Through their interviews the team created a 51-minute professionally composed and meaningful documentary,” said Malinda Herr-Chambliss, executive director of HSDFI.

Along with these interviews, the documentary includes footage of Hot Springs Gallery Walks and other city arts venues.

“This documentary presents a visual recap of the importance of the early and continued arts movement in Hot Springs. It also serves to underline the social, economical and educational impact the arts initially had on Hot Springs and Arkansas. I don’t know of any other city in the United States that has presented a community-based, uninterrupted monthly Gallery Walk for 20 years. This is a real celebration of all of those involved and their dedication to their community and the arts.” Herr-Chambliss said.