ARTIST USES SOUTHERN ARCHITECTURE AS WINDOW TO CAJUN LIFE IN EXHIBIT

    Donna Graham’s textured-acrylic paintings depicting Cajun experiences will be on display at Southdown Plantation from Dec. 11 - Feb. 16.
    Her free opening reception will be Sunday, Dec. 11 from 3-5 p.m.
Graham’s exhibit will fixate on various aspects of the Cajun lifestyle. The first series of paintings include a variety of southern style architectural buildings and tombstones that are unique and original to South Louisiana. These structures serve as a window into elements that depict Cajun life and experiences, such as music, seafood, and art. The exhibit will also feature heavily textured paintings that showcase another Cajun hobby – fishing. Graham used modeling paste, pebbles, and sand to create a unique texture, along with rich, contrasting colors to make these paintings bold and unique.
    “I have embraced my Cajun heritage. I am inspired by the simple things around me,” Graham said. “I am doing what I love and hopefully that harmony is reflected in my work.”
Graham spent many years as an art teacher for St. Bernadette School and now owns her own studio called D-Designs Art Studio, where she teaches semi-private art lessons, adult workshops, and takes on freelance art projects. She also participates in multiple craft shows throughout the year, including Southdown Marketplace Arts and Crafts Festival.
    For more information on the artist, visit her website at www.donnagrahamartist.com.
    Southdown Plantation is located at 1208 Museum Drive in Houma. Please call 985-851-0154 or visit www.southdownmuseum.org/events for more information.