As December rolls in, River Oaks Square Arts Center once again becomes a hub of festive and artistic activity with its Annual Porch Sale, scheduled for Saturday, December 2nd from 9:00am to 3:00pm. This event is not just a sale; it’s a vibrant celebration of art and community that has become a cherished holiday tradition in Central Louisiana.
For over three decades, the Porch Sale at River Oaks has stood as the go-to event for art enthusiasts and holiday shoppers alike. From 9:00am to 3:00pm, the arts center will transform into a bustling marketplace, featuring an extensive selection of art and fine crafts that have become synonymous with the creative spirit of the region. This year, the event is proudly sponsored by GAEDA, LDOA, and River Oaks Arts Center, ensuring that the tradition continues with the same charm and vibrancy it has always had.
The 2023 Porch Sale boasts an impressive lineup of over 30 featured artists, including local favorites and emerging talents. The lineup alone promises a diverse range of artworks, from intricate sculptures and ceramics to stunning paintings and mixed media pieces. Each artist brings their unique style and vision, making the Porch Sale an ideal destination for finding that perfect, one-of-a-kind holiday gift.
“The Porch Sale remains a cornerstone of our holiday season here at River Oaks. It’s more than just an opportunity to buy art; it’s a celebration of the rich tapestry of talent we have in our community,” says Rachael Dauzat, Executive Director at River Oaks. “Each year, we see incredible pieces from local and regional artists, each carefully selected to maintain the high standard our patrons have come to expect.”
The 2023 Porch Sale Featured Artists are Amy Glisan, Aubrey Bolen, Amber Voorhies, Barbara Clover, Charissa Owens, Randy Deaton, Chris Pate, Cindy Cooper Blair, David Crain, Dr. Jose Garcia, Dusty Reed, Jane Crowell, Janet Ahrens, Jerry Havens, JoAnne Thompson, Karen Morrow, Kayla Terrell, Ken Tracy, Kimberly Brannon Saia, Laura Gates, Leah Morace, Lindsay Moore, Margie Tate, Martin Welch, Ralph Hammer, Rhonda Reap Curiel, Sandy Patton, Steve Autrey, Sylvia Kerry, Tish Fresh, Chastity Sayer Smith, Veretta Moller, Wendy Starn and more!!
Adding to the festive atmosphere, Diamond Grill will be providing their signature gumbo in River Oaks’ kitchen from 11:00am to 1:00pm. This delicious offering, available in limited quantities, is the perfect complement to a day of art and camaraderie. As River Oaks continues its mission to foster and promote contemporary visual art and fine crafts, the Porch Sale stands as a testament to this commitment. It’s an event where the community comes together, not just in celebration of the holiday season, but in support of the arts that so richly contribute to the cultural fabric of Central Louisiana.
Please note the arts center will be closed to the public on Friday, December 1st in order to setup for the event. No sales will be conducted on this day. Additionally, select remaining inventory will be available in the gallery gift shop following the annual event.
River Oaks Square Arts Center also invites art enthusiasts to explore the acclaimed 5x5x5 Miniature Exhibition while shopping the porch sale – or any time in December or January. This year, the #Triple5, sponsored by GAEDA, has captivated a national audience, drawing 228 applications from across the United States. With 82 meticulously selected works now on display in the Bolton-Davis Gallery and an additional virtual component accessible at RiverOaksVirtualExhibitions.com, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of miniature art that challenges both the creator and the observer.
The 5x5x5 Show, another signature event at River Oaks, asks artists to confine their creativity within a 5-inch square or cube, resulting in an astonishing array of small yet impactful artworks. This year’s exhibition includes entries from 24 states, with Louisiana boasting the largest number of featured works. The furthest entry, by Artist Barrett from Bellevue, Washington, traveled over 2,390 miles, showcasing the extensive reach of this event.
Award recipients of the 8th Annual 5x5x5 Show:
Beck Crowell Creative Award: Isabelle Massart-Bursh “After the Rain”
Guest Juror, Tom Richard, selected:
Honorable Mention: Ken Tracy “Floral miniature vase”
Honorable Mention: Madilyn Anderson “Intimate Skates”
Merit Award: Laura S. Gates “Hauling in the Day’s Catch, Tortola”
Merit Award: Allison McClay “Thursday”
Best In Show: Jonathan Hoffman “Outraged 1”
For more information on the Porch Sale, the featured artists, and other upcoming events at River Oaks, please call (318) 473-2670 or visit riveroaksartscenter.com
Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the local art scene and find unique gifts for your loved ones this holiday season!
