View art, visit petting zoo at Art Under the Oak Sunday

Published 10:11 am Saturday, March 23, 2024

As an annual celebration of spring and Easter, the Imperial Calcasieu Museum will host the spring edition of Art Under the Oak from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 24.

Under the historic Sallier Oak, locals will be able to shop at booths featuring local artisans, participate in the Bunny Games –  featuring activities like giant Jenga – and even meet the Easter Bunny.

Art Under the Oak is more than just a festival, said Ashley Royer, creative coordinator, ICM.

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“It’s a celebration of community spirit. As we gather under the shade of the Sallier Oak, surrounded by the vibrant energy of artists, delectable treats and the playful antics of the Easter Bunny and our furry friends from the Almosta Ranch, we’re reminded that art truly brings us together in the most magical of ways.”

Guests will have a chance to “connect with the wonders of the natural world” at Almosta Ranch’s mini petting zoo, which will feature lovable animals like bunnies, ducks and Munch the tortoise. The SWLA Carriage Co. will be there to offer $3 carriage rides, and face painting with ICM staff will be available for $10 or two for $15.

One of the most notable parts of Art Under the Oak is the art market. Here, local artisans and food establishments set up shop to sell local “art, eats and treats.”

Participants include: Maya Designs, Deb Barbier Pottery, K. Soileau Designs, Whimsical Banana, BS Pottery, Paint & Fire, Swaco Socks, Manipura Artisanal Soaps, Squirrelly Scribbles, Laser It Studios, Gallery by the Lake, Ulalune Studio, Kalee’s Krackers, Rosemary Jesionowski, Homestyle Candle Co., Hillard Home, Bayou Bling by JC, The Mac Box, Carolyn’s Creations, Hilicious Food Truck, Sweet Citrus Lemonade and Diana’s Cakes, Confection and More.

Art Under the Oak will happen rain or shine. In the case of rain, the festivities will be moved inside the museum.

Admission to ICM will be free during Art Under the Oak. Currently, the gallery is featuring “Plumb,” the 2023-24 school year Calcasieu Parish School Board Student Art Exhibition, which closes that day. Additionally, on display at ICM are three history exhibits: “The History of Mardi Gras,” “But Not Forgotten” and the “Hall of Heroes.”