Underwood Family Gives Undisclosed Amount to WAC

Officials with the Walton Arts Center in Fayetteville announced Tuesday a financial gift from long-time supporters Bill and LeAnn Underwood and their family.

Although the amount of the gift was not disclosed, the donation is designated for the WAC’s ongoing fundraising campaign to expand its Dickson Street location, which includes a new and expanded atrium lobby that connects to Dickson Street, significant renovations and expansion of Starr Theater, increased space for back of house technical and theatrical equipment and new administrative offices.

The completion date for the Dickson Street renovation is fall of 2016. Construction on the main building and Starr Theater will continue through the 2015-16 season with minimal impact on regular programming.

According to a news release, the new plaza located south of the arts center on West Street will be named the Bill and LeAnn Underwood Family Plaza.  The plaza will include a new water feature as well as public art and native plants.

Bill Underwood founded Dickson Street business Underwood’s Fine Jewelers in 1957.

“Bill and LeAnn Underwood have been a part of Walton Arts Center from the very beginning with their original gift of the Underwood Garden,” Peter B. Lane, president and CEO of Walton Arts Center, said in a statement.  “When we realized the expansion would require relocating the Underwood Garden, we talked with Bill and LeAnn and their family about how we could not only recreate the garden, but expand our outdoor space to become a destination where the public can enjoy public art and natural beauty. 

“We are excited the new Underwood Family Plaza will feature a fountain that is both elegant and simple in its design and suits the space perfectly.” 

California sculptor Robert Patterson designed a hammered copper sculpture that stands approximately 10 feet tall. Installation is expected to be completed late spring 2016.