5 Best Art Destinations in Natchitoches

Photo Credit: Melrose on the Cane

Known for its historic district with French Creole townhouses and old plantations within the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, Natchitoches, Louisiana, also has a vibrant arts scene worth exploring. No matter what your favorite type of art is, take some time to check out these top art destinations in Natchitoches and discover something beautiful.

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Melrose Plantation

Constructed between 1832 and 1833, Melrose Plantation is one of the largest plantations in the country built by and for free African Americans. One of the most famous residents of Melrose was Clementine Hunter, who began working as a field hand at the plantation when she was 12 years old. When she was in her 50’s, Hunter found discarded paints and began painting her memories of plantation life. Today Hunter is a legend in the folk art world, and you can view one of her most famous art pieces, the African House Murals, at the Melrose Plantation.

Melrose Arts and Crafts Festival

With such strong ties to artists in the area, it’s no surprise that Melrose Plantation is home to one of the most popular festivals in the area. If you love art, you don’t want to miss the opportunity to check out the Melrose Arts and Crafts Festival held every year in mid-April at the plantation. Over 100 vendors set up tents and tables under the live oak trees. You can browse and shop for original paintings, photographs, stained glass, jewelry, clothing, gourmet foods, toys, pottery, and more.

Natchitoches Art Guild and Gallery

The Natchitoches Art Guild was founded in 1980 to help promote artists within the community. In 1992, members founded the Natchitoches Art Guild Gallery to display works by these local artists. Today the Guild and the Gallery work together as the Natchitoches Art Guild and Gallery. While the Guild offers activities, demonstrations, and workshops throughout the year, the Gallery still focuses on supporting local artists by providing a place where they can display their work.

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Jokie’s Gallery

Avid art collector Jokie Taylor is the owner of Jokie’s Gallery. When Jokie opened the gallery, she wanted a place where local artists could showcase their work for locals and visitors. Today the gallery has an impressive rotation of artists, and you’ll always see something new when you visit. There’s also a diverse range of artistic medians and styles, including Louisiana landscapes, modern art, portraits, pottery, woven baskets, and more.

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Stop by the Fine and Graphic Arts Department on the campus of Northwestern State University of Louisiana, and you’ll find two galleries that feature works by local, regional, and international artists and students. Gallery 2 and the Orville J. Hanchey Gallery, which is named after the highly regarded art professor and department chair, are both open Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to all public events at the galleries is free.

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Whether you’re looking to view stunning art or find some for your own collection, these top art destinations in Natchitoches are worth exploring.