Here is a portion of the article written about the Louisiana Perceptions Show at the Manship Gallery in the Shaw Center, Baton Rouge, LA.
Pat with visitors at the reception for the exhibition
Exhibition Review – Louisiana Perceptions – Art – Culture – Environment
Published March 20th 2024
By G. Mclaughlin
Louisiana Perceptions is an exciting new exhibit at the Manship Gallery within the Shaw Center for the Arts. Louisiana Perceptions encapsulates the creative visions of our diverse Louisiana artists with a focus on art, culture, and environment. The exhibition goes beyond traditional stereotypes, eschewing typical swamp and bayou depictions in favor of a broad interpretation—including landscapes, abstracts, figures, and more—portraying the multifaceted identity of the state.
This approach features Louisiana-based artists presenting various works in multiple mediums, creating an eclectic and vibrant display. It also emphasizes the importance of the ecosystem and its connection to art, culture, heritage, and conservation. The exhibition celebrates individuality and personal perception by showcasing the rich tapestry of diverse cultures contributing to Louisiana’s history and identity.
Louisiana Perceptions is a visual narrative highlighting the intricate connections between the state’s heritage, its people, and the environment. The exhibit is curated by Mark Biletnikoff, known for his innovative and boundary-pushing collective exhibitions in the cultural arts and preservation arena. Biletnikoff has over 20 years of experience in the arts and culture industry and holds two master’s degrees from Savannah College of Art and Design with artists involved.
The exhibition includes the work of artists Cetin Ates, Mark Biletnikoff, Maria Prochaska Boudreaux, Billie Bourgeois, Chuck Braud, Alaine DiBenedetto, Betty Efferson, Loveday Funck, Denise Greenwood, Jessica Haslom, Dana Mosby, Molly Phillips, Tom Quaid, Brandon Roberts, Kyle Vernon, Pat Wattam.
An artist in the exhibition, Pat Wattam, paints from life, plein aire, and personal experience. Her realism shines with an energy reflecting her constant drive to grow as an artist, which keeps her traveling and adding to her skills. Wattam is also an accomplished flutist and belongs to many local art organizations and her work can be found in multiple states. Wattam says, "My paintings offer a realistic portrayal of Louisiana’s iconic scenes including the everyday sight of a streetcar in New Orleans, the beauty of Spanish Moss and blooming Azaleas on plantation sites, and more contemporary views such as downtown Baton Rouge during the holidays and a rancher training his horse. Louisiana’s rich culture is a deep well of inspiration for artists." These subject examples exude the marketed side of the state’s allure and rich history. The cultural richness is evident in Wattam's paintings, as is the careful way she pays close attention to details.
Figure 4 PAT WATTAM SPRING AT THE GATE HOUSE 20X16 INCHES OIL ON CANVAS
PHOTO CREDIT: KATHERINE SEGHERS
