By Kimberly Hopson
L’Observateur

RESERVE – The St. John the Baptist Parish Public library’s Reserve branch showcased local artistic talent during their week-long Underground Art exhibit.
The small exhibition featured more than 20 unique pieces from artists of varied age ranges and abilities. The event was organized by Rona Joseph and curated by Carly Maurin, a research assistant at the library’s LaPlace branch. Maurin also displayed a few of her own pieces in the show. The research assistant said the name of the show is relevant in at least two ways.
“It’s a pun on the summer reading theme, ‘Dig into reading.’ Secondly, ‘underground’ is a fitting adjective for the art scene in St. John Parish. This show was an opportunity for local artists and the idea of an art show itself to ‘surface’ in the community,” said Maurin.
Kier Batiste said she decided to contribute her work after she saw a flyer advertising the event. Bastiste has been painting for two or three years and prefers to work with acrylic paint. She displayed nine of her own pieces.
“I love to paint, it’s relaxing. I would like to enter some of my things into a show when I get better. It’s (my work is) okay, but I’ve seen a lot better,” she said.
For more information on future St. John Parish library events, visit their website at www.stjohn.lib.la.us.