Now in its twelfth year, the Spring for Art Coordinated Art Opening will be held on Saturday, April 12 from 6-10 p.m. It promises to be another spectacular showing, with more than 40 art galleries, shops, restaurants and downtown businesses opening their doors to showcase artists and extend their unique northshore brand of southern hospitality. The St. Tammany Art Association, in cooperation with the Covington Downtown Development Committee, organizes the highly anticipated event.

“Coordinated openings are a great way to make viewing art a special experience. People in Louisiana love parties, and these openings break down the elitist image often associated with the arts,” says Don Marshall, former STAA executive director.

This year’s highlight is Art to Deux with the 9/11 Gumbo Krewe, STAA’s fundraiser to help support its many programs, such as Missoula Children’s Theatre, monthly exhibitions, workshops, artists network, the coordinated art openings and much more. It will be held at 231 N. Columbia St., where artwork by Covington High’s Talented Art students will be exhibited.

The renowned 9/11 Gumbo Krewe will serve dinner, including gumbo, salad, bread and choice of beer or soft drink. In addition, more than 20 artists have created one-of-a-kind gumbo bowls to be auctioned off that evening. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased in advance by calling the STAA at (985) 892-8650.

Established in 1958, the St. Tammany Art Association is a non-profit, community-supported arts organization that provides exhibitions, educational arts programming and cultural enrichment for northshore communities. Membership is open to all; benefits include discounts on art classes. For more information, call (985) 892-8650, or visit the association’s gallery at 317 N. Columbia St. in downtown Covington.

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