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Celebrating Artistic Milestones: River Oaks' Van Gogh Gala and 5x5x5 Miniature Show

03 September 2024

Celebrating Artistic Milestones:
River Oaks' Van Gogh Gala and 5x5x5 Miniature Show

As October approaches, River Oaks Square Arts Center is preparing to host two of its flagship events: the Van Gogh Gala and the 5x5x5 Miniature Show. These events are not just celebrations of artistic talent but also key milestones in the center's history, marking its continued commitment to fostering creativity and community engagement in the arts.
The Van Gogh Gala, which is set to take place on October 26, 2024, is a highlight of River Oaks' calendar and is especially significant this year as it coincides with the center's 40th anniversary. Themed "The Surrealist Ball," the gala invites guests to immerse themselves in a world of surreal beauty and artistic expression. Drawing inspiration from the flamboyant Rothschild soirées of the 1970s, the event promises an evening of eccentric fashion and imaginative artworks, inspired by renowned surrealists like Salvador Dali, Rene Magritte, and Frida Kahlo. 
"As we celebrate four decades of enriching the community through art, this year’s Van Gogh Gala promises to be a reflection of the boundless creativity and vibrant spirit that define our arts community," says Rachael Dauzat, Executive Director at River Oaks. "This event is not just a celebration, but a vivid showcase of the transformative power of art and its ability to shape our community’s cultural landscape."

For over three decades, the Van Gogh Gala at River Oaks Square Arts Center has transcended the traditional fundraiser. It embodies a celebration of art, community, and the shared spirit of creativity that binds us. Each year, Guest Artists paired with seasoned Mentor Artists undertake a creative voyage, collaboratively crafting unique artworks. These masterpieces are not merely displayed but are dynamically auctioned off, contributing significantly to the gala's role as River Oaks' primary annual fundraiser. One of the gala's highlights is the synergistic collaboration between Guest and Mentor Artists, which not only fosters artistic growth but also brings to life an array of stunning artworks that captivate the attendees. 

Secure your spot at River Oaks Square Arts Center's most anticipated event of the year by purchasing tickets directly from board members or by calling River Oaks at 318-473-2670. Prepare your most extravagant costumes and get ready for an evening filled with art, imagination, and community spirit.

In addition to the gala, River Oaks is gearing up for the opening of the 5x5x5 Miniature Show, affectionately known as #Triple5. This juried exhibition, which runs from November 14, 2024, to February 1, 2025, challenges artists to encapsulate complex emotions and narratives within a mere 25 square inches. Over the years, #Triple5 has evolved into a significant national showcase, attracting entries from artists across the United States. This year’s exhibition is curated by Ted Barnes, a distinguished artist and educator known for his exploration of spiritual themes and the concept of pilgrimage in his work. "Ted’s expertise and artistic sensibility will undoubtedly bring a fresh and profound perspective to this year’s selections," Dauzat explains.

The 5x5x5 Miniature Exhibition is an intriguing artistic challenge, inviting artists to confine their expansive creativity into a compact space—no larger than a 5-inch square or cube. This unique constraint not only tests the artists' ingenuity but also highlights the potent essence of their visions. As the year draws to a close, the 5x5x5 Show ignites a creative finale, offering patrons a distinctive opportunity to enhance their art collections with these meticulously crafted miniatures.

“The 5x5x5 Miniature truly has a special place in our exhibition lineup. It finishes the year with a creative spark while offering our patrons an opportunity to expand their collections,” continues Dauzat. “Most importantly, miniatures offer the viewer a unique, intimate relationship with the art and invites a deeper, personal engagement with art, where each piece’s intricacies and stories are intimately explored.” Enter the 5x5x5

For more information on the 5x5x5 and the Van Gogh Gala as well as other upcoming classes and exhibitions, contact River Oaks at 318-473-2670, visit their website at www.RiverOaksArtsCenter.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram at River Oaks Arts Center.

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