deltaDRIFT is the first event of many in 2023 for studioDRIFT. studioDRIFT is a Nonprofit created by award-winning Ecological Design Group’s principals Martin Smith and Tanner Weeks, to build upon a vision for re-imagining the Delta that began with a plan created to save the White River Bridge in Clarendon, AR. Known as the Big Woods Project, this plan took the existing structures in the region such as the White River, the culture, local history, and cuisine, and focused on creating a sustainable future that would intertwine these authentic assets with outdoor activities that take advantage of the geography and topography of the region.
Considering the demolition of the White River Bridge in Clarendon, Smith and his team moved their focus further up the river to DeValls Bluff where they set their sites upon creating a hub to anchor their vision for a Delta where local communities might thrive again with a renewed focus on the surrounding natural resources. deltaDRIFT is the first step in that journey.
A night under the Delta sky with music provided by a local band, Fonkey Donkey, a fish fry hosted by community members, and drinks provided by local brewers it will prove to be a night you won’t soon forget. All programming will be held in the building that will one day serve as the center of this vision. The Robinson Building on Main Street in DeValls Bluff will serve the community as a space for gatherings, classes, workshops, or a remote workplace for patrons to utilize free broadband. In addition to all of this, the building will house a coffee shop and a commercial kitchen that can be utilized by local entrepreneurs for food production.
But the event doesn’t stop there. The following morning attendees will be treated to organized food and transportation for a self-supported float through a hidden gem, the Bayou DeView Water Trail. A nearly 12-mile water trail where lunch will be provided by the renowned Craig’s BBQ and pies will be provided by the wonderful Ms. Lena’s Pie Shop.
The mission of studioDRIFT is to utilize and activate the existing assets in the Delta community. To aid in Developing Rural Infrastructure for Tomorrow. This is exactly what we are trying to do with the deltaDRIFT event.
We hope that our mission will continue to grow, and we hope that you will consider being a part of it. Whether that is attending an event this year, donating on our website, or following our journey on social media. Whatever you can give will be an investment in rapidly dwindling communities and in preserving the dignity of small-town life.
Organizers appreciate your time and attention to our mission of helping to preserve this piece of history and the future of the Delta – one of the most unique places on Earth.
More Information and Registration Watch for information on more studioDrift events coming soon.
