In celebration of Women’s History Month in March, the Acadian Cultural Center hosts the art of Jerilyn LaVergne.
The special exhibit is free, open to the public, and on view through May 29. The Acadian Cultural Center of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is located at 501 Fisher Road in Lafayette. For more information, call 337-232-0789 ext. 201 or visit www.nps.gov/jela.
LaVergne is a fused glass artist inspired by her need to record her life experiences by creating art from the whimsical to the soulful, “Each piece I create always seems to have a story connected to my heart.”
Working out of her Sunset gallery & studio, LaVergne fuses brightly colored glass that includes, abstract wind chimes, mask wind chimes, masks, suns catchers, Bug-A-Boos (garden stakes) and expressive fused glass art.
LaVergne grew up in Sunset and as a child, always had a creative spirit, which was exhibited in the clothing that she designed and made, as well as in other aspects of her life. LaVergne got married in Lagos, Nigeria, and spent seven years experiencing the West African culture which nourished her interest in all art forms. LaVergne has painted, woven baskets and designed mosaic masks and portraits. “Everything I view in my world is viewed with an eye for composition and artistic potential. My eagerness to experience many art forms eventually led me into fusing glass.”
“Each piece of Jerilyn Guidry LaVergne’s work is delightfully unique, but her skillful use of bright colors is the hallmark of her exciting and vibrant collection,” said Park Guide William Bozic
The Acadian Cultural Center is managed by the National Park Service as part of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. The center is open Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The center is closed on federal holidays and Mardi Gras. The film “The Cajun Way; Echoes of Acadia” is shown hourly beginning at 10 a.m. with the last showing at 3 p.m. The center also features exhibits and programs on the history and cultures of south Louisiana. Admission to the center and for most center programs is free. Group tours are available by reservation. Call the Acadian Cultural Center at 337-232-0789 ext. 201 or visit www.nps.gov/jela.