Spring Art Walk Returns to Lake Charles on May 8: Celebrate Local Art, Performances, and Community
Mark your calendars for the return of the Spring Art Walk on Saturday, May 8, 2021. In a recent discussion with Devan Corbello, Executive Director of the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana, the overwhelming excitement from the local artist community was evident. As the city's first major event in over a year amid the pandemic, participation has surged, with a significant number of artists eager to reconnect and share their creations with the public.
This year's event features an vibrant art market, popup galleries, food vendors, and captivating performances from drama, music, and dance programs across local schools. A highlight is the "art war," inviting students and adults to create works inspired by jazz icon Nellie Lutcher and her enduring legacy in Lake Charles. This gathering of diverse art forms in downtown Lake Charles promises something for everyone—a true renaissance of the local arts scene.
Organizers have prioritized safety with pandemic protocols in place: masks encouraged, expanded spacing for vendors, and an outdoor format to facilitate social distancing. Select downtown restaurants will host indoor booths to distribute crowds, while the Children's Museum plans an outdoor booth despite remaining closed indoors. Despite challenges, Lake Charles residents demonstrate remarkable resilience and passion for community connection. As Devan noted, curating this event has been a labor of love, showcasing the dedication of local talent.
St. Louis Show Choir
Scheduled Performers:
In addition to over 30 art vendors, enjoy performances by The Westlake High Drama Department, St. Louis Show Choir, Damien Guillard, Barbe Drama Club, Deep End, Lake Charles Dance Academy, Barbe Show Choir, Young Band Nation, and Brandon Broussard & Chez des Bons Temps.
Spotlight on Local Talent
Performing Arts - Drama:
As one of the first major gatherings post-pandemic, the Art Walk offers vital opportunities for performers. Kelli Cooley, director of Barbe High School's drama club, shared insights on her students' spring production excerpt. After a year with limited performances, students expressed profound gratitude for reuniting as a "family," eager to deliver joy to the community and restore a sense of normalcy.
Humanities - Author:
Local author Shawna Boudreaux (pen name SG Boudreaux) will showcase her novels. The sole author at the 2019 Art Walk, she has self-published five of her six books while homeschooling three children amid recent hardships. Her clean, engaging fiction highlights the depth of Southwest Louisiana's literary talent.
Support SWLA!
This is just a glimpse of the Art Walk's offerings. Lake Charles has a history of transformative art born from adversity, like jewelry crafted from Hurricane Laura's shattered glass—a symbol of endurance. The 2021 creations will inspire similarly. Bring your family and friends to support local artists on May 8 from 3-7 p.m. along downtown Ryan Street.
Participating Venues:
Luna's, Olive & Indigo, Corner Market, Pure Press Juicery, Stellar Beans/Yoga Center of Lake Charles, Gophr, Buffi's Peaux Boys, Bespoke Hat/Salon Lindsay, Papersmith, The Parlor House, Tia Juanita's, Botsky's, Alexander Art Studio, and Barbers on Broad.
