An unexpected discovery in a collection of vintage photographic slides inspired an artistic journey that audiences can explore during a free documentary screening and artist lecture at Arkansas State University-Beebe on Thursday, October 1, 2026.
The award-winning documentary “My Indiana Muse” will be shown at 6:00 p.m. in the Owen Center Theater, located at 1102 West College Street on the Beebe campus.
Artist Robert Townsend will take the stage at 7:00 p.m. to discuss the inspiration behind his paintings, his creative process and the story featured in the film.
Both the screening and lecture are free and open to the public. No ticket is required.
For more than 20 years, Townsend has recreated the imagery of midcentury America through detailed paintings. His subjects include vintage matchbooks, candy wrappers, classic automobiles, roadside attractions and historic buildings.
“My Indiana Muse” follows Townsend’s fascination with a woman named Helen, whose photographs he discovered among vintage slides. Inspired by her personality and adventures, he began a project that would span more than a decade.
As Townsend recreated scenes from Helen’s life, he visited places she had traveled and connected with people who knew her. The documentary explores how an ordinary life can inspire an extraordinary story.
Ryan Gibbons, coordinator of visual and performing arts at ASU-Beebe, said the event offers students and community members an opportunity to experience the connection between art and storytelling.
Directed and produced by Ric and Jen Serena of Serena Creative, the 43-minute documentary has earned audience and jury awards at film festivals across the country.
To view ASU-Beebe’s 2026-2027 Performing Arts Series schedule, visit:
https://www.asub.edu/performing-arts/
For more information about ASU-Beebe, call 501-882-3600 or visit https://www.asub.edu/.
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