For anyone who has ever longed for a place that celebrates – even embraces – the curious and the odd, look no more. Thursday, Jan. 19, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., report directly to Sulphur’s Henning Museum for the opening of Curioddities to find like-minded spirits and a respite, albeit brief, from the ho-hum. This exhibit promises a “magical experience.” It’s the third year in a row for the umbrella theme Curioddities, and each year the exhibit varies.

“This year, Curioddities is inspired by the fantastical creatures and artwork of Brian and Wendy Froud,” the concept designers behind Labyrinth and the Dark Crystal,” explained Kat Godsey, The Brimstone Historical Society assistant director.

 These fantasy illustrators and concept designers are also responsible for the magical, chock full of personality creatures in other Jim Henson films that include Alexander the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day and the Muppet Movie. Wendy, named after the Peter Pan character, has been dubbed the mother of Yoda, as she was one of the artists who helped create the popular personae. (She is solely responsible for coming up with the mechanism to operate his ears, according to an article in fanthatracs.com)

Godsey requested artists to submit work in the following categories: lost and found treasures, labyrinths, surrealism, fantasy, assemblage of found objects, concept art, abstract art, ancient themes, mythology, fairies, nature, forest…. The list goes on to include poetry or prose about being lost or found.

“We have such an eclectic mix, work from glass artists, ceramic artists.” Godsey said. “We received submissions of creatures created from found beach objects, works from a master oil painter and one – and I am as excited about it as he is that his submission was accepted – from a nine-year-old.”

Godsey said the young man was inspired by the Henning Museum exhibit Chaos Theory. He told his mother he would like to create a piece of art for the next art show. She encouraged him, wanting to demonstrate the importance of trying, “putting yourself out there” even when you don’t know what the outcome might be. “That’s practically our motto here, “ Godsey said with a chuckle.

But c’mon, is this art? According to Godsey it is.

“Art, to me, is anything that a person pours love, passion or emotion into,” she said. “It’s all about the passion to create.”

Curriodities runs through March 2. Godsey said she is planning to give the community an opportunity to come not-necessarily-come-as-they-are to the closing. Stay tuned.