Symbol of Pride Exhibit Brings Awareness

During the Holocaust, the pink triangle symbol was used by Nazis to label, harass, and harm homosexuals. Decades later, during the Gay Liberation Movement, the pink triangle was reclaimed as a symbol of pride. In honor of pride month and to create awareness for LGBTQ+ artist in our area, local gallery Creatives At Work is hosting their exhibit, Symbol of Pride, through July 28.

Mounted along the walls of the Creatives At Work Gallery, the exhibit features works by LGBTQIA+ artists with the history of the Pink Triangle symbol explained between each work of art. In addition to the works by LGBTQIA+ artists, Creative Exchange has produced a collective work that occupies the ceiling of the gallery. An array of pink triangles submitted from artists and creatives belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community as well as allies are suspended from the ceiling throughout the space.

Visitors to the exhibit are invited to take home a book among a selection from a wide range of genre types including fiction, non-fiction, biographical, essays, young adult, poetry, short stories, and others. Book topics specifically should relate to LGBTQIA+ matters as well as stories and issues relating to BIPOC, Women’s rights, civil rights, antisemitism, fascism, oppression, and similar subjects because “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) Any books left over at the end of the exhibit (hopefully there won’t be any) will be disseminated through the local area’s Little Free Libraries.

You can learn more about the symbol and its history here.

At Ruston's Artisans: The View from My Window Exhibition

The View from My Window Exhibition

We are honored to announce a very special exhibition at Ruston Artisans. The View From My Window by Ukrainian artist Igor Letinsky documents the beauty of his country and its people. Witness history through the eyes of an artist fighting to preserve the treasure immortalized in his work.

Igor Letinsky. Remember that name! Igor Letinsky is an artist living in Odessa, Ukraine whose prophetic watercolor artworks hauntingly portray a culture and history that is, at this moment, under threat of extinction. Each original watercolor serves to document the beauty and life of Ukraine as it was, and still is in the hearts of its people.

On 24 January, 2022, Igor was concluding an exhibition at the Gallery Artodessa in Odessa, Ukraine. One month later, Mr. Letinsky chose to remain at his home in Odessa, to defend the beauty depicted in his work. The gallery director at Artodessa, Ekaterina Pimenova, described Igor’s work this way, “The possibilities of watercolor allow the author to convey the mood and quintessence of the moment. The works of Igor Letinsky are a story about a modern city. Written in a very elegant way. In it, Odessa appears in all its guises, which we value so much, which we value so very much.”

“When I first viewed Igor’s art, I was overwhelmed with so many emotions,” said Judi Null, Ruston Artisans gallery owner. “His use of watercolor to convey the love he has for his country is compelling. Even more than that, was knowing that this work has documented, for generations to come, what this lovely city may lose forever to the war. Viewing his work, you can imagine the images fading into the background—almost prophetic of what has come to pass. We are blessed and honored to be entrusted with this visual story of Odessa. We pray that Mr. Letinsky remains safe as he protects his homeland. Purchases of Igor’s art will not only benefit relief efforts, people will be investing in a piece of history.”

Igor Letinsky graduated from the Odessa State Maritime University and also received a second higher education at the Institute of Postgraduate Education at the I.I. Mechnikov. He has been engaged in creativity for as long as he can remember. He is a member of the international volunteer movement Urban Sketchers Odessa. His works have also been exhibited in the Bleschunov House and the Vorontsov Palace.

Letinsky’s exceptional body of work will be exhibited as a two-part charity show. Mr. Letinsky’s exhibition of original works of art opens 27 April, 2022, with a private collector’s reception to be held on 28 April, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (by reservation only) and a public reception on 29 April, 2022 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Mr. Letinsky will attempt to join the private reception electronically. Our artist and Ruston Artisans will be donating 50% of all sales to Ukraine relief through Rotary International and the Red Cross. For information about the exhibition or to make a private reception reservation, contact Ruston Artisans at 318-254-3322. Limited edition giclee’s and prints will also be available for sale.

Ruston Artisans is open Wednesday & Thursday from 10 am to 5 pm and on Friday from 10 am to 4 pm.

And now open the 1st Saturday of the month over summer! See you soon!

Visit Us: @RustonArtisans * RustonArtisans.com

Art Around Town: February Art Events in Ruston

The arts are heating up in Ruston

Ruston’s art scene has a lot to offer. Experience something unique, expand your mind, connect with community, and get inspired by these upcoming arts events in town.

February 21st at 5pm is the artist talk for Master of Fine Arts candidate Pankita Patel in the Moffett Gallery of the FJ Taylor Visual Arts Center. In her thesis exhibition “Communicating Through Multi-Sensory Loss”, Patel aims to improve communication between people who are blind, deaf, mute, and any combination of these three. Patel designed a product known as “Dot Dot” which consists of a tactile keypad and a tactile Braille display. “Dot Dot” can receive and send messages to all types of phones. It can convert any translation of voice, text, and Braille interchangeably. The different modes of “Dot Dot” will allow differently disabled people to communicate by sending and receiving the message according to their ability and desire. The exhibit will continue through Feb. 25. For more information about the lecture or exhibit, call the School of Design at 318.257.3909 or visit the School of Design at design.latech.edu.

February 22nd at 6pm is North Central Louisiana Art Council’s Annual Member Meeting at Ruston Artisans, 203 W Alabama Ave. All current and future NCLAC members are invited to celebrate another year of the art council, its members, artists, and supporters.

February 24th at 7pm is NCLAC’s Independent Film screening of “Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in School.” The film takes a deep dive into the lives of Black girls and the practices, cultural beliefs and policies that disrupts one of the most important factors in their lives – education. Alarmingly, African American girls are the fastest-growing population in the juvenile justice system and the only group of girls to disproportionately experience criminalization at every education level. “Pushout” is being presented in partnership with Grambling State University and Delta Sigma Theta public service sorority. The screening is available to all online by visiting nclac.org/film-screening. Due to COVID restrictions, the in-person screening for "Pushout" is invitation only.

February 25h at 5pm is the closing reception for “Many Infinities: Intimacy and Other Things” at Creative Exchange, 112 W Alabama Ave. Artist Khalilah Maryam Al-Amin Kersey (KMAK) is an artist and writer from Convent, LA. She has always been a creator to some extent and has always enjoyed the processes more than the result itself. Currently, she has been focusing on what she believes she does best: making beautiful things. “Many Infinities: Intimacy and Other Things” features a combination of digital paintings, traditional paintings, and poetry.

Now through February 28th is the extended sale of NCLAC’s 50@50 Small Works Show at Creative Exchange, 112 W Alabama Ave. This year was a successful return of the in-person 50@50 Small Works Show. Artworks are still available for purchase of $50 per piece. View the available works online at nclacgallery.org/5050-2022. Support area artists by collecting their art.

Now through March 26th is the 2021 North Louisiana Virtual Residency Exhibition presented by Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation and NCLAC. Sixteen artists in 8 pairs have spent nearly 10 months collaborating via the internet to produce new artwork spanning a wide range of concepts and mediums. You can browse, read, watch, and listen to the works and the artists sharing about the experience at nclacgallery.org. Follow the exhibition highlights on RLCF social media outlets, on Instagram @rlcf.residencies and Facebook @RossLynnFoundation. The show will run from February 1st through March 26th, 2022. The exhibition is a culmination of artists from across the globe collaborating together in groups during a virtual residency program that began in 2021.

 Written by Madeline Marak, Executive Director

Holiday Arts Market returns to the Norton

On Saturday, December 4th from 12 to 7pm the North Louisiana Arts Council will hosts artists, artisans, and musicians in a transformed arts market space located in the Norton Building, 207 W Mississippi Ave. Located in Ruston’s Downtown Cultural District, the Holiday Arts Market highlights the talent of unique makers and musicians that form the culture of north Louisiana. Area artists have been selected to display and sell their works of original, handmade items at an affordable price. Live music from regional acts will set the stage for a whimsical and cozy shopping atmosphere.  There will be pictures with Santa from 12-2pm thanks to Ruston Main Street.  Enjoy free themed kid's crafts and activities, story time, and fun for the whole family!

Kicking off the event at 12pm Frances Grafton will perform classic holiday arrangements on harp. Grafton is an accomplished pianist, organist, clarinetist, and harpist brought to the NCLAC stage by Trio’s of Ruston. At 1pm students from the Grambling State University Music Department led by gospel artist Michael K’von will perform. At 1:30pm the Louisiana Tech Choral Department will perform a medley of carols accompanied by Assistant Professor of Choral Music Education, Aaron Knodle. Both student ensembles are supported by the Rotary Club of Ruston. At 2pm blues duo Buddy Flett and Bill Deese will perform thanks to Experience Ruston. Flett is a Grammy nominated blues musician who has written and performed for Percy Sledge, David Egan, Tab Benoit, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Otis Clay, and more.

At 3pm Hardrick Rivers and the Rivers Revue Band will perform on the NCLAC stage made possible by Century Next Bank. Rivers is an annual headline performer at the Natchitoches-NSU Folk Festival.  He was inducted into the Louisiana Folklife Center’s Hall of Master Folk Artists in 2001. In 2017 he was recognized by the Lt. Governor of Louisiana and the Louisiana Folklife Commission as a Louisiana Tradition Bearer.

On stage at 4pm is Monroe-based jazz guitarist Josh Love and Twin City Jazz band. Made possible by Experience Ruston, Love and his jazz trio brings a new groove to the Louisiana jazz scene. At 5pm saxophone soloist Curtis Mills will perform thanks to Origin Bank. Mills is a member of known regional brass bands Total Choice and Windstorm from Shreveport, Louisiana. Mills’ smooth sounds and lulling melodies charm every listener. Wrapping up the market at 6pm is funk and RnB artist Mr. TaylorMade. Talented in playing keyboard, talk box, drums, bass, guitar, and vocals, this multifaceted artist is brought to the stage by Experience Ruston and Durrett Law & Title.

Artist vendors include: Art Daddy Kels, Ashley Alford, Athena Scott Art, Bailee Golden, Benicia King with 9ëfer, Caroline Jones Art, Christiane Drieling, Concepts By Noelle, The Courtlyn Collective, Creative Exchange, Dixon Designs, Fleur de Lou Creations, French Puff Handcrafted Jewelry, Hannah Gumbo, HB Lettering Co, Jessica Horne Artist, Joy Works Paintings, Katelyn Marie Customs, Kordal Handmade, Linda Moss Art, Lincoln Parish Talented Arts Students, LouisianaCat, Madcow Designs, Mariel Davenport, Mars the Artist, Matthew Knopps, Molly Engen, Morgan Roque, North Forty Woodworks, Paige Powell Design, Paperglaze Calligraphy, Pastry Moon, PLOID, Pristine Beadsman Creations, Ruston Artisans, Ruston Community Theater, Six Arrows Jewelry Co., and Teal Annie Home Goods.

Food from RNL Cookery Corner food truck will be on site for a taste of authentic African/Caribbean cuisine fused with American fare. For dessert, grab a baked good from Second Round Bakery. Hot chocolate and Coffee will be available from Common Goods Co. Further warm up your night with a glass of wine made possible by Marsala Beverage.

For more information on the market visit nclac.org/arts-markets.

Written by Madeline Marak, Executive Director 

ARToberfest is Back!

Artists are putting the “Art” in Artoberfest

Artists are taking front stage of this year’s ARToberfest fundraiser put on by the North Central Louisiana Arts Council. Starting in 2010 as a gathering of beer enthusiasts that wanted to raise money for the arts, ARToberfest raises funds for NCLAC's programming, such as the Summer Arts Camp, Holiday Arts Market, Independent Film Series, Peach Art Exhibit, the Outside Show, Art Outreach, and more. NCLAC is looking forward to celebrating being back together by raising funds, and a glass, for the arts on Friday, October 15th at the Ruston Farmers Market.

This year’s ARToberfest will focus on bringing local artists, musicians, food and culture to the forefront. Artists Keldrick Dunn and Maryam El-Awadi will present live painting demonstrations and auction off their artwork to the highest bidder during the event. Designer Todd Maggio will be screen printing custom designed temporary tattoos onto willing event-goers. Printmaker Frank Hamrick will be letterpress printing a limited edition of event postcards. Music by Second Hand Jacket funk-rock band, Da Drum Shed brass jazz band, Jade Reynolds singer-songwriter, Louisiana Tech second line band, and Louisiana Tech Music Industry students will perform live throughout the night. Specialty beer-fest themed food will be available for purchase by the Heard Freighthouse Foodpark.

Adding to the local flair is Ruston’s very own Utility Brewing. The business started after homebrewers Karl Puljak and Cassidy Keim saw the area’s interest in craft beer after participating in Artoberfest for many years. This year, Utility Brewing is offering a special VIP experience for Early Bird ticket holders to enjoy a pint on their patio, 206 N Vienna Street, from 5-6:30pm during Artoberfest while listening to live music and sampling tasty pastries by Paul Tran the Baker Man.

Now evolved into a beloved Ruston event, ARToberfest draws supporters from all over north Louisiana to sample a great selection of homebrewed, craft, and commercial beers. ARToberfest is registered as a certified beer tasting event under the national Beer Judge Certification Program. Homebrewers hand out samples of their specialty-made beers as entry into the tasting competition. This year’s homebrewers are Gary Baker with Hermitage Road Brewing, Stephen Merrill with Storyline Brewing, Logan Slade, Navneet Sharma, Chuck Murphy, Mark Pellittieri, Richard Hargis, and Ryan Nestrud. Beer tastings will also be available from Utility Brewing, Great Raft, Flying Tiger, Seventh Tap, Marsala Beverage, International Wines & Spirits, and Choice Brands. 

Tickets are now on sale for $45 for Early Bird entry at 5pm and $35 for General Admission entry at 6:30. Thank you to our amazing sponsors this year: Divine Wine & The Keg Package, Ruston Animal Clinic, Dr. Navneet Sharma, Ensure Agency, Experience Ruston, Fine Line Supply, The Selfie Stop, Buie Photography, Heard Freighthouse Foodpark, Stephens Media Group, 1620 Essentials, Log Cabin, Danni Jones Physical Therapy, Imperium Weightlifting & Fitness, Legends 32 Cigar and Vape, 2High Trampoline Park, Chartreuse Pear, Ponchatoulas, and Champs. Visit nclac.org/artoberfest or follow the ARToberfest Facebook account at facebook.com/artoberfest to get all the event updates. 

The Outside Show

The North Central Louisiana Arts Council will launch their public art initiative, The Outside Show, beginning May 1st. The exhibition of artworks installed outside for the public was created to echo the statement made by the Americans for the Arts, Why Public Art Matters green paper which states “public art activates the imagination and encourages people to pay attention to the environment they occupy”. The exhibition invited creators of all kinds to propos an idea for one of the outdoor sites that enhances our city’s attachment to where we live.

Locations around Downtown Ruston and beyond will be activated by artwork on banner signs, window displays, pop up gardens, fence posts, planter boxes, trees, building awnings, mural walls, and more. The Outside show has 21 unique sites with 15 individual participating artists and 9 community groups or artist collective. Thanks to the gracious support from Century Next Bank, Driggers Outdoors, Rapid Signs, and Louisiana Tech University, local and regional artists have been able to design, create, and install their artwork in the public.

New Orleans based artist Luba Zygarewicz installs her sculpture “Alverare Luminoso” with daughter Marguerite Hogue and student Hannah Fulton for NCLAC’s Outside Show.

The Outside Show artists exhibiting for the month of May are: Mariah Smith, Rae Tedeton, Dorene Kordal, Ruston Community Mens Shed, The Art House, Rfige, Cedar Creek Art, Dylan Sanders, Stirling Botts, Rachel Botts, Liz Zanca, Ashley Greer, Khalilah Al-Amin, Camellia Jiles, Boys and Girls Club, Ruston High School Talented Arts Juniors & Seniors, Chlese Jiles, Skatepark of Ruston, LA Tech School of Design, Mark Holstrom, Peter Jones, Luba Zygarewicz.

A map of all the sites and their locations will be released at the Downtown Ruston “Art in the Park” event in Railroad Park Saturday, May 1st from 11am to 1pm. Live music provided by the Ruston Cultural District will be performed by Kamryn Murphy, a student of the Louisiana Tech Choral Department from 11:30 to 12:30pm on the Railroad Park stage. Sidewalk chalk provided by Experience Ruston will be available for event goers to “chalk the walk”, inviting everyone to participate in creating public artwork in Ruston.

Joining Saturday’s event are ancillary art happenings throughout Downtown Ruston.  The Skatepark of Ruston will be set up with ramps and obstacles for another Skate Jam in the Historic Fire Station parking lot from 12am to 3pm on Saturday, May 1st. They will be debuting a new skateable sculpture created by Joey Slaughter and Thomas Faulkner.

The Ruston High School Talented Arts Senior Art Show will take place in Esma’s Alley on May 1st from 10am to 2pm featuring artists: Jaqueline Chandler, Maisie Daughtry, Alex Davis, Miley Lee, And Moss, Alexis Odengaugh, Jakevion Poe, Ellie Puljak, Sophie Puljak, Ashlynne Schales, Ari Valle, Aimee Turner, Elizabeth Woodard, and Matthew Wright under the direction of Erin Hanna.

Printed maps as well as a launch of the online map will be available Saturday May 1st from 11am to 1pm in Railroad Park, Downtown Ruston. Learn more about The Outside Show and other NCLAC exhibitions at nclacgallery.org.

Photo: New Orleans based artist Luba Zygarewicz installs her sculpture “Alverare Luminoso” with daughter Marguerite Hogue and student Hannah Fulton for NCLAC’s Outside Show.

Flavors: Inaugural Show of the NCLAC Gallery

SEE THE ARTICLE IN THE RUSTON DAILIY LEADER

The NCLAC Gallery opens inaugural show “Flavors”

The North Central Louisiana Arts Council is proud to announce the opening of The NCLAC Gallery, an online art gallery space for rotating solo and group exhibitions. The NCLAC Gallery was crated as an effort to support area artists, give exposure to the arts, and keep patrons safe. ReMax Results Realty of Ruston has made the project possible through their sponsorship. Owner Brandon Crume was excited by the opportunity to welcome viewers into a virtual space since the limits of Covid have kept most art patrons from visiting physical spaces.

Flavors is the inaugural show of The NCLAC Gallery. The term "flavors" is used to espouse the different backgrounds of the selected minority North Louisiana artists and their various methods of artistic expression. North Louisiana is full of artists and creatives with diverse backgrounds from various parts of the world who have made their home here or attend college here. From photographers, painters, vocalists, blues performers, to Bollywood dancing, these artists use art to inform the viewer of their culture and provide commentary on how the events that are happening in the world affect them. 

Flavors is a group exhibition of 16 artists curated by Felicia Burse, a native of north Louisiana. Burse graduated with a Bachelor of General Studies with a concentration in Arts and a minor in Psychology from Louisiana Tech University in 2013, and a Master of Arts in Museum Studies from Southern University in New Orleans (SUNO) in 2018. She has interned with NCLAC and LA Tech’s Special Collections, Manuscripts, and Archives (SCMA) department. She helped curate the Rites of Passage: Africa exhibit at SUNO’s library in 2017, and re-imagined The Camp Ruston Collection exhibit at SCMA. Her artwork has been exhibited in a selection of shows and exhibitions. 

The online show highlights one work from each creator and a short bio about their process or inspiration. Brenda Wimberly, vocalist from Shreveport, is classicaly trained, performs folk, popular, jazz, and traditional gospel styles. She has performed all over the US and internationally. Camellia Jiles creates digital drawings of characters that reflect her same face, body type, and skin tones that she finds missing in mainstream media. She seeks to motivate individuals to connect with others beyond what physically separates them.

Chlese Jiles uses illustration and character design to share her passion of storytelling to depict diverse characters and imagine stories that have remained untold. Drek Davis is a mixed media artist working in collage, fabric assemblage, and painting. His piece “Diaspora (Ogoun’s in Isolation)” invokes ideas of freedom, liberation, identity, and self-actualization. Evie Hinojosa uses her own body as in instrument to paint canvases that express the female experience; showing how women are often viewed as a collection of parts rather than a whole person.

 Jamarrion Cotton listens to music as his inspiration to paint, letting the sounds choose the colors and shapes. The song by California hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar inspired his piece “Momma”. Katrina Harris is a portrait photographer who captures the expressions, moods, and inner thoughts of her subjects through careful styling, lighting, and wardrobe choices. Khalilah Maryam is a creator at heart. She uses photography, painting, digital drawing, writing, and design as ways to share her beliefs, her childhood, and her story as a way for others to learn something about themselves.

Lisandra Di Liberto Torres draws on subjects from her hometown Hatillo, Puerto Rico, know as a center for milk production. Her paintings of red cows with wings merge representation and fantasy to illustrate homesickness for her home country. Maryam El-Awadi uses oil paints to create narratives and communicate ideas through color. She creates vibrant, dreamlike work where characters are in a fantastical environment. Pankita Patel is an MFA Graphic Design student at LA Tech. She uses her experience as an international student to create the piece “Language Barrier” which invites immigrants to write their experience with language differences on a luggage tag.

Phillip LeBlanc started “Hashtag Office Portraits” as a series born from a love of light, portraiture, and people. The series aims to capture the human moments of every day life through photography with the intention of sparking human interaction. Robert Finley is a nationally know blues and soul singer-songwriter from Bernice, Louisiana. Music, for him, is a gift. He says, “that’s what I try to do with my music; say something positive and do something positive.” Shane Greer’s painting “Fall of Man” explores the concepts of death and vulnerability. He addresses issues such as poaching of endangered animals and relates them to personal loss.

Sylvia Shultz continues her passion for performing by celebrating her Indian culture. She performed “India Nite” in 2019 with a Bollywood dance to a medley of songs from the 50s and 60s inspired by Indian cinema. WeiShu Tsai is a Visiting Assistant Professor in the voice area at LA Tech. His baritone vocal range brings strength and power to his performances sung in 6 different language all over the US and abroad.

Flavors is now on display at The NCLAC Gallery by visiting nclacgallery.org.

Downtown Ruston Photo Challenge Issued

Originally posted in Ruston Daily Leader — September 18, 2020

Small business owners in our community have had to endure a barrage of turmoil recently. 

From the effects of natural disasters and a global health pandemic, downtown Ruston has had to bear the brunt of hard times. The collective spirit of our community, however, is as strong as ever — some might even say “Ruston Strong.” 

With COVID restrictions slowly beginning to lift, downtown Ruston is looking to bring life and vibrancy back to the streets in a safe and socially-distanced way. 

On Sept. 15, Main Street Director Amy Stegall, launched the newest reason to visit downtown Ruston. In partnership with Friends of Ruston Main Street, the #LoveWhatsLocalChallenge seeks to encourage citizens to share their favorite things about their downtown community through a creative lens. 

The #lovewhatslocalchallenge is a chance 

to capture the sites, scenes, and moments you love about downtown Ruston. Through social media hashtags, share your perfectly photographed experience for a chance to win up to $500 to spend in downtown Ruston shops. 

This week’s prompts are: Top Photo Op Downtown, Best Meal Downtown, Favorite Accessory, and It Wouldn’t be Downtown Ruston without ______.

Post one or all four with the hashtags #lovewhatslocalchallenge #RustonLA #downtownruston for your chance to win. Each photo you post will be a new entry. Check the downtown Ruston social media pages on Tuesdays to see the newest prompts. 

The #lovewhatslocalchallenge is a collaboration born out of Friends of Main Street and the city’s desire to put a pep in downtown’s step and encourage safe engagements with shops and restaurants through creativity.

“As Main Street director, it is great to partner with a group like Friends of Ruston Main Street to think of ways to encourage people to get downtown to shop and eat safely,” Stegall writes. 

“COVID has hit our small businesses hard, and the #lovewhatslocalchallenge not only encourages people to get downtown to shop and dine, but it also restores the hearts of our downtown Ruston merchants who have been missing their patrons. It is important to us to promote safe and healthy ways to shop, and this challenge does just that! We can’t wait to see what everyone loves about #downtownruston.” 

Friends of Ruston Main Street is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that seeks to promote, encourage, and serve as a fundraising arm to the downtown Ruston community. 

“We are thrilled to be able to partner with the city to host this exciting challenge that encourages foot traffic in downtown Ruston — It’s what we’re here for,” said Dylan Sanders, chairman of Friends of Ruston Main Street. 

Sanders joins NCLAC as Community Development Coordinator

NCLAC is excited to welcome Dylan Sanders as our new Community Development Coordinator. Formerly a Texas native, Dylan moved to Louisiana in the summer of 2011 to start college at Louisiana Tech University. Four short years later, he would find himself looking for reasons to stay — calling Ruston his home.

Throughout the next several years, Dylan would realize that both his desire to live creatively and his ability to lead could be used to benefit charitable organizations in positive ways.

Today, Dylan serves as the Associate Director of the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation and works as Co-Owner & Creative Director of UpAhead Design.

He is a self-taught graphic designer, a collector of local art, and a proud dog-dad to Beaux!

Join us in welcoming Dylan to the NCLAC family!

It's Not Too Late — Christiane Drieling

Despite the particular challenges faced by many this year, artists continue to play a crucial role in storytelling through a vast array of media and outlets. Little can be done to stifle creativity and imagination, especially in the case of one Ruston artist whose new exhibit is now open to the public.

On view now through January 2021, The Monroe Regional Airport and the Masur Museum of Art are proud to feature a new exhibition of work by Ruston mixed-media and collage artist, Christiane Drieling. 

Originally postponed due to the COVID pandemic, this exhibit, It’s Not Too Late, is now on display in the Origin Bank Gallery at MLU Airport and features a series of whimsical collage artworks. 

“My collages deal with individual dilemmas and interpersonal conflicts, with culture clashes, political issues, and societal visions. Through the use of book clippings from miscellaneous sources, especially children's books, my stories come into view as being innocently playful or outrageously surreal,” Drieling writes.

Drieling’s artwork incorporates familiar elements — fragments of folksongs and folktales, traditional games, proverbs, common knowledge, and standard procedures, as well as current discussion topics, prominent figures, historical markers, and stereotypical images. Her use of vintage paper and books mixed with her own ink and watercolor additions makes her artwork visually playful, innocent, and surreal. 

“I am quite excited about this show!” Drieling says.

It’s Not Too Late can be viewed in person at the MLU Airport gallery daily from 7am-7pm and all visitors' first hour of parking is always free. Additionally, the show can be viewed virtually by going to https://masurmuseum.wixsite.com/christianedrieling.

Writer Spotlight: Veronica Schuder

Quarantine

Written by Veronica Schuder

First, inventory:

half-jug bleach,

antiseptic mouthwash

(40% alcohol, but good

enough), hurricane

lamps, mouths open

to the sky. We think

we don’t have enough.

Counting, counting, counting:

is there enough meat,

enough dry goods,

enough beans, rice, pasta,

powdered milk

in little packages?

Is there enough

detergent, detergent

for dishes, for hands,

for bedsheets, for killing it

when it comes, silent army

armed with cough and fever…

Exhausted, we signal

the silent moon for rescue.

How can we keep

things clean, keep things straight,

and keep our distance

while counting up the days,

measuring all we have

gathered against

our unmanageable hearts?

Surely, help will arrive

with briefcases and plans,

people we can fill the coffee pot for,

who will eat what we cook

and proclaim it good. Love,

we have planned all

we can. We have made lists

of our many faults and our quarrels.

We have prayed. We have counted

the gold finches flashing

through the yard each spring.

Look, there’s one now.

Light in the dark

shadows, messenger from

another dimension,

singing its tiny song.

Here’s the pale green of spring

and a cool wind that says

there’s life yet to come.

Look, here. There’s plenty.

There’s more than enough.

There’s love.

Veronica Schuder has been teaching writing in the English department at Louisiana Tech since fall 2000. Her poems, creative essays, and criticism have been published extensively in literary journals all over the United States and abroad including “SoFloPoJo,” “The Laurel Review,” “The Florida Review,” “War, Literature, and the Arts,” and “The New Ohio Review.” You can find some of her more recent work online at weeklyhubris.com and soflopojo.com.

Ashley Greer- Artist Spotlight

Ashley Greer- Artist Spotlight

If you’ve been around downtown Ruston lately, you might have noticed a new, colorful addition to one of the walls while driving or walking by. The newest mural in downtown, created by the talented Ashley Greer, reflects the aftermath of the powerful tornado that ripped through the city during late April. Not only is it a fun and vibrant scene to view, but it also has a deeper meaning. It’s dedicated not only to the city of Ruston as a whole, but also to the mother and son who were victims of the vicious storm. 

As Ruston began to recoup and rebuilt after the devastation and destruction caused by the storm, the short yet powerful saying “Ruston Strong” quickly became a powerful, unifying slogan for the entire community. Inspiration for this mural comes from this quote, and not only provides another fun, artistic mural for the city of Ruston, but a positive message as well. 

About 12x24 feet, the mural consists of delightful, bold colors, as well as interactive hand-painted designs such as a bouquet of balloons that viewers can pretend to hole while posing for a picture. It’s located in downtown Ruston on the eastern wall of JACO Federal Credit Union. 

So the next time you’re out and about in downtown Ruston, make sure to swing by and check out Ruston’s newest public artwork, appropriately named: “The Rainbow After the Storm.”

There is a great video on the My ArkLaMiss webpage featuring artist Ashley Greer and Main Street Director Tori Davis speaking about the inspiration and process of creating the mural.

-Victoria Arnold

https://www.myarklamiss.com/news/local-artist-makes-ruston-strong-permanent-through-downtown-mural/

NCLAC sets Holiday Arts Market

Art Talk - Ruston Daily Leader

“NCLAC sets Holiday Arts Market”

Deck your halls with locally made art this holiday season. On December 6, 2019, from 2-9 p.m., the North Louisiana Arts Council will host 25 artists and artisans and their work in a transformed arts market space located in the Norton Building in Ruston’s Downtown Cultural District.  Area artists have been selected to display and sell their works of original, handmade items at an affordable price. Shoppers are encouraged to speak with the artists and artisans about their work to learn about their process. There will be a variety of artist vendors selling unique items such as precious stone jewelry, wooden turned bowls, hand-crafted books, artisan soaps and essential oils, leather goods, recycled textile wearables, calligraphy stationery, ceramics, paintings, photography, and more. 

The Holiday Arts Market will also feature musical performances throughout the night starting at 2pm by artists Katelyn Fajardo, Sharissa Martinez, Monty Russell, Bill Deese, Buddy Flett, Fiddlin Tim Trio, and Mione Destiny. With the musical styles ranging from a cappella harmony, gentle acoustic harmonies, familiar Americana, blues, and torch-jazz vocals, there is something for everyone. The Ruston Community Theater will perform a preview of their holiday show, “Yes, Virginia. There is a Santa Claus” at 4pm. Community actors will be in costume to give a short sampling of their production that runs December 5-8th. 

Children’s craft activities are free and will be available from 2-5pm. Storytelling provided by the Children's Department of the Lincoln Parish Library will begin at 4:30pm. You can have your picture taken in our wintery wonderland provided by Buie Photography from 4-8pm. The Louisiana Tech Greenhouse will be set up selling poinsettias. Get your holiday plants from the largest grower of poinsettias in north Louisiana before they run out. 

The Holiday Arts Market will host a Post-Modern Gingerbread House competition with cash prizes ranging from $50-$100 with categories for ages k-5th, 6th-12th, and an adult category. Entry is free and open to the public. All materials must be edible and not extend a 12in x 12in footprint. Submit your gingerbread creation by bringing them to the Norton Building at 2pm. Ruston’s beloved baker Paul Tran will select the winners of the cash prizes and award the Judge’s Choice award. Vote for your favorite gingerbread house to win the honor of People’s Choice by dropping a donation into the jar.   

Local food and drinks from downtown restaurants and food trucks will be there to warm your heart and your belly. There will be door prizes of artisan-made items provided by the participating artists given out every hour. With luck, you could go home with a one-of-a-kind handmade gift by entering your name and email into the door prize drawing. 

The cozy atmosphere of the historic Norton Building is the perfect setting for a night of family, art, music, food, and fun. For frequent buyers or those new to buying art, the Holiday Arts Market is an inviting place to purchase accessibly priced, gift-friendly artisan goods. 

Written by: Victoria Arnold

This article was published in the Ruston Daily Leader Friday, November 15th, 2019.

Shannan Inman vending her handmade stationery "Paperglaze Calligraphy"

Photo by: Cara Beth Buie

Holiday Arts Market: December 6th

Deck your halls with locally made art this holiday season! On December 6, 2019, from 2-9 p.m., the North Louisiana Arts Council will host 25 artists and artisans and their work in a transformed arts market space located in the Norton Building in Ruston’s Downtown Cultural District.

Area artists have been selected to display and sell their works of original, handmade items at an affordable price. Shoppers are encouraged to speak with the artists and artisans about their work to learn about their process. There will be a variety of artist vendors selling unique items such as precious stone jewelry, wooden turned bowls, hand-crafted books, artisan soaps and essential oils, leather goods, recycled textile wearables, calligraphy, ceramics, paintings, photography, and more.

fiber artist: Dorene Kordal

The Holiday Arts Market will also feature musical performances throughout the night! Starting at 2pm, artists like Katelyn Fajardo, Piney Hills Harmony, Sharissa Martinez, Monty Russell, Bill Deese, Buddy Flett, Fiddlin Tim Trio, and Mione Destiny will be playing throughout the event. With the musical styles ranging from a cappella harmony, gentle acoustic harmonies, familiar Americana, blues, and torch-jazz vocals, there’s a tune for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to the musical entertainment, the Ruston Community Theater will perform a preview of their holiday show, “Yes, Virginia. There is a Santa Claus” at 3pm. Community actors will be in costume to present a short sampling of their production that runs December 5-8th.

Need something to soothe your sweet tooth? The Holiday Arts Market will also host a Post-Modern Gingerbread House competition with cash prizes ranging from $50-$100 with categories for ages k-5th , 6th-12th , and an adult category. Entry is free and open to the public. All materials must be edible and not extend a 12in x 12in footprint, and you can submit your gingerbread creation by bringing it to the Norton Building at 2pm. Ruston’s beloved baker Paul Tran, will select the winners of the cash prizes and award the Judge’s Choice award. Tran will also be at the event at 5pm to sell his own pastries and tasty treats. You can vote on for your favorite gingerbread house to win the honor of People’s Choice by dropping a donation into the jar.

jewelry artist: Cathy Godley

If you’re looking to add a little extra holiday flair to your home décor, The Louisiana Tech Greenhouse will also be selling poinsettias. Make sure to get your holiday plants from the largest grower of poinsettias in north Louisiana before they run out!

Furthermore, children’s craft activities are free and will also be available from 2-5pm. Storytelling provided by the Children’s Department of the Lincoln Parish Library will begin at 4pm. Buie Photography will be present from 4-8pm offering photographic services for kids and their families in the Wintery Wonderland display.

Throughout the Holiday Arts Market, local food and drinks from downtown restaurants and food trucks will be there to warm your heart and your belly. There will be door prizes of artisan-made items provided by the participating artists given out every hour, and with luck, you could go home with a one-of-a-kind handmade gift by entering your name and email into the door prize drawing!

Whether you are a frequent art buyer or if you’re new to purchasing art, the Holiday Arts Market is an inviting place to purchase accessibly priced, gift-friendly artisan goods. Come join us in the cozy, welcoming atmosphere of the historic Norton Building for a dazzling night of local, handmade art, games, live music, delicious food, and tons of fun. We’ll see you there!

“Well Groomed” Documentary Film at the Dixie

“Well Groomed” Documentary Film at the Dixie

 Ruston, LA— Are you an avid dog lover? Join us November 21st for the third film in the North Central Louisiana Art Council’s Southern Circuit independent film series: “Well Groomed.” The film follows four women as they travel from South Carolina to California, New York to Arkansas documenting the sub-culture of competitive creative dog grooming, a fascinating collision of art and animals. Dive into the world of competitive dog grooming and experience one of the most colorful competitions in America today. 

 NCLAC is glad to partner with 4 PAWS Animal Shelter in Ruston for this screening of “Well Groomed.” Bring an item to donate to 4 PAWS and get free entry into the screening. Donations of dog collars, dog leashes, Milkbone medium-size dog treats, and cleaning supplies are most appreciated. Visit 4pawsrescueinc.org to learn more about their organization. 

NCLAC is honored to host the makers of the film, Rebecca Stern and Justin Levy, during a Q&A session following Thursday night’s screening. For Stern, “one of the strengths of documentary film is that it provides a way for people to get to know others from vastly different backgrounds and points of view. I wanted to explore the dog groomers’ artistic world with empathy and humor.” 

The women in the film Adriane, Nicole, Cat, and Angela have unique personalities that give them drive, determination, ingenuity, and the ability to connect with people. Well Groomed is a revealing look at pets, families, friendships, and the glory of creativity through a bright prism of color.

“Well Groomed” is playing at the Dixie Center for the Arts, 212 N Vienna St. Ruston, Louisiana. Adult tickets are $5, student tickets are $3, and NCLAC members get in for free. Donated items to 4 Paws get in free as well. Buy your tickets at the door starting at 6:30pm. The film will begin promptly at 7pm. 

The Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers is a program of South Arts. Southern Circuit screenings are funded in part by a grant from South Arts in partnership with the National Endowment of the Arts.

ARToberfest in TEN DAYS!

When: October 18th, 5-10pm.

Where: Ruston Farmers Market, 220 E. Mississippi, Ruston, Louisiana

What: North Central Louisiana Arts Council’s annual beer-tasting fundraiser. 

 We are 10 days away from North Central Louisiana Arts Council’s 10th Annual ARToberfest, sponsored by Devine & The Keg, Dr. Nav Sharma at Green Clinic, and the Ruston Animal Clinic. ARToberfest is a crowd favorite for beer, music, food, and art lovers alike. Tickets can be purchased at Fine Line Supply, 207 N Trenton, or online at nclac.org.

 Tickets are $40. They allow entry to the event from 5pm-10pm, unlimited samples of beer, and come with a souvenir pint glass provided by Fine Line Supply. Designated Driver tickets are available for $10 for participants not wanting to sample beer. All participants must be 21 years of age or over to attend. 

Food vendors this year popping up on site will be Wild Thang, Bad Wolf, Grown & Grazed, and Chindian Flavors. The music line up starts the night off with Mama and The Outlaw, followed by Band of Gypsies, and headlining with The Vidrines. 

Regional breweries this year include Flying Heart Brewery, Great Raft Brewing, Parish Brewing Company, Natchez Brewing Company, and Bayou Teche Brewery. Home brewers attending are Ryan Nestraud, Jean Gourd, Gary Baker, Stephen Merrill, Mark Pellittieri, Evan McDougall, and Richard Hargis. Our judges awarding the Judge’s Choice Award are Nathan Slaughter and Jeremy Saye. 

Thank you to Marsala Beverage, Choice Brands, and International Wines & Spirits for providing tasty brews for sampling. Thank you to our sponsors, Devine & The Keg, Dr. Nav Sharma at Green Clinic, Ruston Animal Clinic, Fine Line Supply, The Selfie Stop, Rapid Signs, Bayou Life Magazine, Uptown Downtown, Argent Financial, Hampton Inn, Super 1 Foods, Alpine Nursing & Rehab, Durrett Law & Title, PCI Electric, Danni Jones Physical Therapy, Brasher Group, Troy Lord Electric, Ride or Die Spin, Ruston Farmers Market, Southern Grace Events & Blessings, and Railway Coffee for their support. 

Call (318)255-1450 or visit nclac.org/artoberfest for more information. 

NCLAC is a non-profit organization supported by sustaining members including Century Next Bank, First National Bank, Origin Bank, Ruston Daily Leader, Driggers Outdoor, Peach Radio, a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, and by members of the community. 

ART ON 45 Call for Artists

Read all about this amazing call to artists created by NCLAC member and local artist Christiane Drieling!

ART ON 45 is a unique art project that benefits and honors both – the artists and the community: 
Visual artists of all genres are asked to create a piece of art on or with one 45rpm (7") record for a juried exhibition and documentation in the annual ART ON 45 book. Forty works will be selected, two artists will receive a juror's choice award. 

After a two-week show, the works are sold in a silent auction to support a chosen organization. The 2020 beneficiary will be "The Exchange," a special nonprofit program of the Ross Lynn Foundation, which supports the vital work of area nonprofits.

The exhibit and the auction event (March 14th) will take place at Fine Line Supply Co. in downtown Ruston. The exhibit will showcase the new original works, as well as reproductions of the 150 pieces from the previous years. 2020 is going to be the year of the fifth edition of ART ON 45. 

If you are interested in participating, please send an email to arton45submissions@gmail.com to request the details.

Deadline for submissions is January 6th, 2020. There is no submission fee.

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ART Around Town: Opening Reception for David Hutson

The School of Design invites everyone to join us for the Opening Reception of David Hutson's Memory and Desire: A Personal Exploration of Neon Art, Past and Present.


Hutson is a neon artist with a specialization in theater production. He has exhibited his artwork nationally and is a consultant for internationally renowned theatrical productions. Hutson lectures extensively about his collection of restored vintage neon signs and serves on numerous historic preservation commissions with a focus on the care and maintenance of objects related to Historic Route 66. Hutson is a key member of the Neon Heritage Preservation Committee of the Route 66 Association of Missouri. Hutson lives in St. Louis, Missouri and owns Neon Times in St. Charles, Missouri where he creates his own work and restores neon signs.

"Artist Larry Rivers once said, 'Neon has gaiety, joy, pageantry, circus qualities,” and that “the canvas is the night. Neon is the simplest and strongest from of illustration.' By presenting these two practices simultaneously, the exhibition illuminates spectacle, lays out the precise combination of decoration and messaging and highlights Hutson’s exploration of his sculptural practice using a material that moves like luminous, science-fantasy."

Excerpt from "A Buzzing Glow," Exhibition Review by Dana Turkovic, Curator. Laumeier Sculpture Park, St Louis, MO for images of Hutson's past projects visit: https://www.facebook.com/NeonTime1/

Reception food generously provided by Ponchatoulas Restaurant. 

Gallery hours are 9-4pm, M-F. Additional hours open for viewing during receptions and events as announced.

ARToberfest Tickets Now On Sale

Tickets are available for the North Central Louisiana Arts Council’s 10th Annual ARToberfest, which will take place Friday, Oct. 18 at the Ruston Farmers Market in Downtown Ruston. ARToberfest is NCLAC’s craft beer tasting fundraiser that supports arts programming such as the Southern Circuit Independent Film series, Holiday Arts Market, Summer Arts Program, Farmers Market Art Outreach booth, and more. This year’s event is sponsored by Devine & The Keg and Dr. Nav Sharma at Green Clinic Regenerative Medicine. 

Tickets can be purchased at Fine Line Supply, 207 N Trenton, or online at nclac.org/artotickets.

Tickets are $40. They allow entry to the event from 5pm-10pm, unlimited samples of beer, and come with a souvenir pint glass provided by Fine Line Supply. Designated Driver tickets are available for $10 for participants not wanting to sample beer. All participants must be 21 years of age or over to attend. 

All ticket holders can enjoy snacks provided by Uptown Downtown Eatery, a selection of local food trucks for purchase, 3 live bands made up of area musicians, a beer themed art exhibit, an interactive raffle to win fun prizes, and The Selfie Stop photo booth provided by Buie Photography. 

Regional home brewers will compete for bragging rights for the Judge’s Choice Award and People’s Choice Award. Marsala Beverage, Choice Brands, and International Wines & Spirits will provide tastes of commercial craft beers along with regional microbreweries such as Utility Brewing, Great Raft Brewing, Flying Tiger Brewery, Red River Brewing, and more. 

Become a volunteer and receive a t-shirt, pint glass, beer tastings, and volunteer food. Email nclacartoberfest@gmail.com to sign up. 

Thank you to Century Next Bank, Ruston Animal Clinic, Rapid Signs, Bayou Life Magazine, Argent Financial, Utility Brewing, Railway Coffee, PCI Electric, Danni Jones Physical Therapy, Hampton Inn, Alpine Senior Care Centers, Brasher Group, Troy Lord Electric, and Ride or Die Spin for their support.

Sponsorships are still available. Call 318-255-1450 or email nclac5@gmail.com for more information.

Ruston Farmers Market is located at 212 North Vienna Street in Ruston, Louisiana.

Follow all ARToberfest updates on our Facebook page at facebook.com/ARToberfest

NCLAC is supported by its members, and also by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.

The members have spoken

As NCLAC looks to the future, we are confident in the impact the arts have on the culture and wellbeing of Ruston. This time of year, we like to take the opportunity to share stories of why you, a recurring or future member, should support all of the arts-related happenings that we offer around town. If you had a child enjoy our hands-on outreach tables or summer arts camps, we ask that you become a member. If you have enjoyed watching people paint in one of our art crawls or hearing live music at ARToberfest, please become a member. If you enjoy watching independent films in the Dixie Theater and talking to up-and-coming filmmakers about their process, come to our films for free with a membership. If you feel the Holliday Arts event adds value to historic downtown Ruston and would like to see it continue, would you support us through a membership? If you appreciate the amazing artwork that fills City Hall each June during Peach Art Exhibit, please join us as a member. If you feel that your quality of life is made better by cultural opportunities, and Ruston’s economy is strengthened by cultural events, will you please help us continue our work by becoming a member?

NCLAC memberships begin at $15 for students, and continue through a number of levels with varying “perks” such as discounts on tickets and special invitations. Our $30 “Friend”, $50 “Family”, and $100 “Contributor” levels are our most popular. We appreciate our members so much, and carefully steward our money as we work hard toward our mission of nurturing the arts in this region.

(Check out our membership benefits and become a member easily online today!)

We appreciate the members of NCLAC that go above and beyond monetary donations by volunteering at events, helping create graphics for our website, taking pictures of our programs, and serving as board members. NCLAC could not run without all of the people that roll up their sleeves, come to meetings, make the hard phone calls, write the long emails, and help us get things done.

The talk is around town of how NCLAC has touched member’s lives and why they continue to support. If you’re not convinced, take it from them: 

 “It’s great having such an active arts council in Ruston, serving the area. They provide opportunities for artists to showcase their art and opportunities for the community to discover artists in the area. Art has become an integral part of Ruston” Henry McCoy, downtown Ruston business owner and photographer, Fine Line Art Supply

I like that NCLAC is active in finding opportunities to support and promote local artists.  NCLAC provides outlets for creative work.  Our volunteers lead, encourage, and praise those that attend art camps, etc.  Encouragement is so critical, especially at a young age.  I believe that perception becomes your reality – if we can help young artists in our area see that they are unique and have a gift to share with the world, they will be more likely to do so.  Infinite good can come from encouragement and support. Timothy Everett, local branch Manager, Origin Bank

“NCLAC is the crown jewel of our community. I love the variety of programs the offer Ruston and the support they provide for artists and musicians.” Dr. Tara Haskins, Nurse educator and Medical Consultant, LA Tech

Pictured from Left to Right: Cara Beth Buie, Peter Jones, and Cathi Cox- Bonoil at the NCLAC annual membership meeting in January of 2019.

 “I love NCLAC because it allows me to be a thread in the fabric of the wonderful cultural renaissance taking place in our community.  Although I’m not a working artist (nor do possess those unique superpowers), through its membership, NCLAC offers me a seat at the table.  I’m able to help expand and enhance artistic offerings throughout the community, implement enriched arts education both formally and informally, and simply enjoy the bounty of fine arts through NCLAC’s collaborative efforts.  Through my involvement with NCLAC, I find immense satisfaction in knowing that while I may be helping plant the seeds of a diverse array of art, music, and literature experiences for today, the greatest gift is its impact on this community’s future.  I love NCLAC because through my work within it, I believe I will leave this world a little better than I found it. Cathi Cox-Boniol ACHIEVE Coordinator, Lincoln Parish Schools

“As a founding member and first president of NCLAC, I feel both obliged and thrilled to continue to support the organization I helped start 30 years ago. I give because we provide a variety of arts activities for diverse audiences” Dr. Susan Roach, Director and professor of the School of Literature and Language, LA Tech

We encourage you help make a difference and become a member of NCLAC today.