Article and Photos by Erik Sanzenbach
St. Tammany News

Olde Towne in Slidell was transformed into a giant art gallery last Saturday night as the Department of Culture and Public Affairs staged its annual Arts Evening.

This free event showcased the talents of over 100 local artists. Their works were shown in a variety of venues that one does not usually associate with art. For example, the Original Tire Shop on Erlanger Street showed off the work of Luana Perez in the front of the store. The lobby of the Whitney Bank on First Street was crammed with people admiring the works of Vicki Carlson, Patty Hall and Joyce Haun, while they sipped wine and munched on hors d’oeurves.

(Use arrows above to view more photos)

Hair salons like Hair-Port, Kutting Quarters and Mi Salon also showed off the works of art. It seemed that almost every shop within a four-block radius was an art gallery for the evening.

Of course, the real art galleries were humming with art patrons too. It was a special night for the opening of the Dubuisson’s Art Corner on Robert Street. Eric and Mary Dubuisson just opened the gallery that also gives lessons in art to children and adults.

One of the most unique displays was at the Arcade Theater on Carey Street. While the rock-and-roll tunes of the band Redline filled the theatre, people could stroll through the ranks of brightly painted motorcycles inside.

Speaking of music, over 20 acts were scattered throughout Olde Towne to entertain art purveyors. There were big name acts like Ronnie Kole and Charmaine Neville at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. For those who liked to dance, there was the Hot Sauce Cajun Band in front of the Slidell Museum, who had many couples two-stepping the night away. For those with more highbrow tastes, the Slidell Symphony Trio entertained at the Victorian Tea Room while spectators admired the ceramics of the St. Tammany Porcelain Arts Club.

The weather was perfect for the evening and spirits were high as the crowds were enchanted with art and regaled with music.