by Van Roy
Rafters Allure Continues Covid Style
One could not have ordered better weather for this year’s ART IN THE RAFTERS, presented by the Avoyelles Arts Council Thursday, November 5. With a beautiful fall evening as it’s backdrop, attendees of the popular 8th annual art exhibit and membership drive were treated to a decidedly different event than in years past.
“After countless discussions and much back and forth, we decided to proceed, but with a very mindful approach encouraging guidelines that have been set forth during these challenging times,” said Van Roy, co-chair of the event. Instead of being concentrated in one event space, the event was moved outdoors and around the Courthouse Square. Various venues, including downtown businesses that showcased artists painting live, such as Bloom & Co., Main Street Printing and Willow Nest, welcomed guests who had purchased their “passport” at the organization’s Gallery on the Square. The “passport” bought guests a year’s membership to the Avoyelles Arts Council, and allowed guests to enjoy all the exhibits around the Square, many of which served complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wine and specialty cocktails. Over twenty local and regional artists participated in the event and were on hand to greet guests viewing their artwork.
Four time Grammy Award nominee, Cedric Watson of the Lafayette area, performed live on the steps of the courthouse, singing entirely in French while playing the fiddle and accordion. Arts, crafts and food vendors from the Main Street Market added that dash of small town charm.
“Guests have been extremely complimentary and we’ll probably duplicate and build on this model for next year. It exceeded our expectations in all the best ways.”
