2026 North Louisiana Arts Interchange

The Arts Interchange program originated during the COVID-19 pandemic when the arts community in Ruston, Louisiana, came together to keep artists connected despite physical isolation. In 2022, the Ross Lynn Charitable Foundation launched the North Louisiana Arts Interchange project in partnership with the North Central Louisiana Arts Council, supported by a Project Grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts. The inaugural year of Arts Interchange was a bold experiment that challenged artists from Louisiana and neighboring states, resulting in numerous inspiring works of art and fostering strong relationships among the participants. In its current form, Arts Interchange is described as a 'baby residency,' allowing artists to step out of their regular practices and explore new experiences without significantly disrupting their daily lives. The program accommodates practicing artists, educators, students, and aspiring full-time artists, enabling them to fit the activities into their weekly schedules while maintaining their other commitments. For emerging and younger artists, Arts Interchange offers an opportunity to expand their practices and build valuable connections with fellow artists. For more seasoned participants, the program provides a refreshing break, allowing them to explore new ideas and collaborations that can reinvigorate their creative practices.