Sacred Spaces: The Milk Carton with Arms - Christ of the Ozarks, Arkansas

The Christ of the Ozarks, a statue in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, USA

The Christ of the Ozarks, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Sacred Spaces #6

The Christ of the Ozarks was designed and built by Emmet Sullivan, a famous sculptor who also worked on Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. The Christ of the Ozarks was constructed in the early 1960s and was officially dedicated on July 15, 1966.

The Christ of the Ozarks is a towering minimalist statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the mountains and hills of the Ozark Mountains just outside of Eureka Springs, Arkansas. At 67 feet and weighing in at over 2 million pounds, it is the 11th tallest statue in the United States.

The statue is surrounded by a beautiful natural park that features walking trails, picnic areas, and a beautiful garden. Visitors can also visit the nearby Sacred Arts Center, which showcases religious artworks from around the world. There is also a genuine piece of the Berlin Wall on the premises - a testament to the message of unity and hope which was behind the establishment of this religious park.

Christ of the Ozarks, Christian statue in Eureka Springs, Arkansas

It's a unique statue that feels a bit out of place in the rolling hills of the Ozarks. The art deco style of the statue and minimalist design has lent it the affectionate nickname "the milk carton with arms". Today, The Christ of the Ozarks is one of the iconic features in Eureka Springs.

The Christ of the Ozarks

Regardless of one's religious beliefs, the Christ of the Ozarks statue in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, offers several meaningful insights that can provide wisdom and value. It stands as an emblem of hope, compassion, forgiveness, and a reminder of the power of human spirit and perseverance.

The statue, standing 65.5 feet tall, is an incredible work of art. Even if one doesn't share the specific religious beliefs it represents, it can still be admired for its aesthetic beauty and the skill and dedication that went into its creation. This can remind us to appreciate the beauty and complexity in all forms of artistic expression.

 For those who identify as Christian, the statue represents the teachings of Jesus Christ. But even for those outside of the faith, the principles of love, forgiveness, compassion, and self-sacrifice that Jesus embodied can inspire introspection and personal growth.

Furthermore, the statue's location atop Magnetic Mountain, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Ozarks, reminds us of our responsibility to the environment. It encourages us to respect and protect the natural world for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations.

937 Passion Play Rd, Eureka Springs, AR 72632, United States