Creatively Focused,
Community Driven.

Where We Began

Lucky Star Handmade’s roots began in the watershed of the lower Buffalo National River. In 2019, Donna Musarra and David Mervis created an artist-in-residence program at Lucky Star Farm, located near the ghost town of Rush, Arkansas. The residency welcomed artists, musicians, writers, designers, chefs, farmers and scholars to spend time engaging with the natural environment and creating within our community. Artists were encouraged to explore, connect, and engage with the people of this region—individuals deeply skilled in the arts, traditions, and local culture.

Over time, the residency drew many artists to the area, and the connection between the farm and the surrounding community grew stronger. Out of that energy came a shared desire among a small group of local artists: to bring that creative spirit into the heart of Yellville. There was a clear need—a place for artists to share and sell their work, and a gathering space where creative people could meet, collaborate, and connect.

A dedicated group set out to make that vision a reality. The former Baker Realty Company building was purchased, the renovations began, and the artists came together. In October of 2024, Lucky Star Handmade opened its doors on the square in Yellville, Arkansas. Opening night was joyful and well attended—a clear sign that something meaningful had taken root in the heart of our town.

Since then, Lucky Star Handmade has continued to grow. What began with 20 artists has expanded to more than 70. We now offer workshops across a wide range of disciplines—fiber arts, natural dyeing, woodworking, painting, paper arts, cooking, and agricultural traditions. Our performance space brings musicians from across the country and beyond, while also showcasing local writers who share the stories of this region. Our listening room creates an intimate setting where performers and audiences connect, and where music is not just heard, but experienced.