Art Exhibit Opening at Bistro in Ruston Aug 3

I'm so excited to finally be able to share all the details about this art show. This is what was posted on the NCLAC's facebook event page. I'll be posting photos the first week in August.
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On Wednesday, August 3, from 5-7 p.m., the North Central Louisiana Arts Council (NCLAC) and 102 a Bistro will present “Sifting the Exotic and Familiar,” an exhibition of recent work by regional artists Julie Crews, Melanie Douthit, and Jan Thibault.

Their works, while distinctly different, still complement one another, and while each of these women has a unique style, they share a passion for the creative process.

About painting, Douthit said, “I love the limitless possibilities that can be achieved through letting go and stepping ‘outside the lines.’”

Similarly, Thibault said, “Painting is a joy filled journey involving color, energy, and spirit that transcends everyday life. All can be abandoned to allow creativity to flow.”

Crews said that the advice and sometimes “rules” she gains from teachers and other artists influence her, but at the same time, she added, “Sometimes I paint and ask myself, ‘What rule can I break? Will I be successful?’ and I measure my success through my experience of the process and product. Did I smile, or did I stamp my feet and cry during the process? Was the product disappointing or in the end, was it beautiful?”

The artists will attend the reception honoring them Wednesday, so as you enjoy wine and appetizers, ask them about their work and what inspires them.

Afterward, stay and have dinner. Since it opened in April 2009, 102 has built a reputation as a place to experience great art and great food. More than just a restaurant, 102 is a unique cultural experience.

102 A Bistro is located at 102 N. Monroe Street, Ruston, Louisiana.

If you are interested in purchasing a work in “Sifting the Exotic and Familiar,” look for NCLAC’s Executive Director Leigh Anne Chambers at the reception, contact NCLAC at 318-255-1450, or stop by the Dixie Center for the Arts Tuesday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. We look forward to seeing you at the Bistro.

Best Artist in the Delta - FINALIST!!

I've so badly neglected my blog in the past month or so. I have some exciting things going on.

First of all, I'm a finalist for Best Artist in our regional "Best of the Delta" voting. There are just a few days to vote. If you would like to vote, the link is:
Best of the Delta

My category is on page 6 or 7 (when the completion bar is at 89%). You do NOT have to vote in each category. There is a slide bar on the right of the voting page that you can move down until you see the "next" button.
(thank you)

My daughter and I entered some art in the Louisiana Peach Festival last month. We both received an honorable mention on one of our paintings. Hers was an elephant. Mine was the "Intellectuals" fish painting. It's one of my favorites. For now its on my mantle.

My most exciting news is that I was invited to participate in a three person art show in Ruston, Louisiana at an upscale restaurant, 102A Bistro. I'm working on pieces for that show this week and next. I can't wait to share all my new work.

Thanks for stopping by and please don't forget to vote for me for Best Artist. I'm thrilled to be a finalist1