Exhibition explores artists’ creativity

Three of Shreveport’s most highly celebrated artists – muralist Ka’Davien Baylor, contemporary realist painter Eric Francis, and rural and contemporary painter Ron Smith – invite you to explore the intricate web of influences that drive and inspire their art and the diverse sources that ignite their creative spirits in “DIVINE INSPIRATION: God, Giants, and G.O.A.T.s” opening at the Meadows Museum of Art at Centenary College of Louisiana Jan. 12.

This exhibition is a journey into the soul of the art of Baylor, Francis and Smith, where they lay bare the way they use the tools of their creativity and actions to mold their art. Broken into three series unique to each artist’s style, the experience allows the viewer to discover the rich tapestry of influences – – that shape each of these artists’ creative universes.

Ethereal paintings, sculptures and immersive digital installations offer a perspective on the divine and its impact on the creative process in the “God” series. Visionaries and trailblazers who have left an indelible mark on the world in art, science and activism are celebrated in the “Giants” series. And “G.O.A.T.s” (Greatest of All Time) pays homage to those who ignite the passion of creativity in artists, whether legendary musicians, influential writers or historical influencers.

“There has never been a more perfect time for this exhibition. As artists, we were brought to this earth for more than just to create beauty – we were born to fulfill a purpose. We hope to make a difference with this show,” says Baylor.

“In life, strength takes many forms.

Spiritual strength exists beyond the physical. The paintings in this exhibition delve into the essence of strength, capturing it in diverse forms,” says Francis.

“This series explores the use of abstract art as a canvas background with images that influence us as artists. My art is an extension of my imagination where I combine graphic design with abstract art to create a visual narrative that transcends traditional constraints,” says Smith.

Ever the dynamic visionary and catalyst for change, Baylor makes creativity work for him – to make change, to create hope, to heal communities and to encourage investment and ownership. He was a Shreveport Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 2023 nominee and honored by the Shreveport City Council for his artistic contributions to neighborhoods throughout the city.

Nationally renowned art critics named Francis the recipient of the Critic’s Choice award for the Shreveport Regional Arts Council “Critical Mass 9” competition. He is from Brooklyn, N.Y., but has made Shreveport his home since attending SUSLA and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in studio painting from Centenary College of Louisiana.

Smith is a recipient of the City of Shreveport Artist Fellowships and a Kallenberg Artist Tower artist. He is a self-taught artist whose art reflects his past and is a testimony to what influences him in the present.

Explore the world of three “giants” of the Shreveport art scene at The Meadows Museum of Art at Centenary College of Louisiana with “DIVINE INSPIRATION: God, Giants and G.O.A.T.s” opening Jan. 12.