As River Oaks heads into its 31st year of promoting the visual arts throughout Central Louisiana, the lineup of classes and exhibits for the coming year promises some truly amazing artists and media. The first artist for 2015 to both exhibit and offer classes is Paula Hallman–known for both her whimsical paintings and dolls. Hallman draws inspiration from “a dream world. To be more specific, it is a world between dreams and reality, influenced by that state of mind just when one is falling asleep, leaving the conscious world and entering the unconscious world of dreams.” She says this is where creativity is kept.

“Life is overflowing with beauty, mystery, and enchantment. Often times, we are too busy or involved in our daily struggles to notice the beauty in our world or others,” says Hallman. “My goal as an artist is to remind us to see the beauty, feel the joy, or maybe just to smile!” Paula’s exhibit entitled ‘The World of Paula Hallman’ takes visitors into a world populated by almost exclusively women with unnaturally elongated necks, allowing them to see into both worlds. The artist will teach a workshop on paper clay dolls.  Student s will leave with a completed doll at the end of the two-day workshop, which takes place at River Oaks on January 14th and 15th. The head and arms will be sculpted from paper clay, while the body will be embellished with fine fabrics, vintage laces, jewelry and feathers.

Hallman’s exhibit is joined by “Looking”, featuring locally renowned artist Beck Crowell, whose art often encourages the viewer to question and learn more about their environment. The third exhibit in the lineup is “Jeff G. Stephens–An Introduction”, featuring an up and coming artist in his River Oaks debut.

“We are particularly proud of our 2015 lineup of artists and classes,” says Rachael Dauzat, River Oaks Executive Director. “As we kick off our annual membership drive, expect our annual calendar to arrive in the mail mid-January. River Oaks is largely funded by our members and we appreciate those that are able to join at any level–memberships start at as little as $40.00 per year.” Membership benefits include early registration for River Oaks’ events, priority registration for the popular annual summer arts camp, reduced admission for the center and much more.

For more information or to request a membership application and exhibit schedule, call (318) 473-2670.