Today the Imperial Calcasieu Museum is hosting a night for patrons to mingle with artists, explore exceptional local art, learn about Mardi Gras’ history and sample King Cakes from local bakeries.

From 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 204 W. Sallier St., a double opening reception will be held for the exhibitions “Residency at the Museum: Cohort Two” and “History of Mardi Gras.”

‘RATM: Cohort Two’

The “Cohort Two” exhibition will celebrate three artists who participated in the second year of Residency at the Museum — an artist residency program founded by ICM to “foster a creative incubator space.” ICM Creative Director Ashley Royer called this year’s residency “very successful.”

The exhibition features 35 pieces of artwork by artists Robbie Austin, Elizabeth Thompson and Lyd Walls.

All three residents from “Cohort Two” are abstract artists.

“Austin explores with mixed media, inks, and paints. Walls explored new techniques by combining painting and textiles. Thompson explored the beauty of geometric shapes through linear designs using embroidery thread,” Royer said.

RATM contributes to the health of the Southwest Louisiana art community by interjecting it with “vitality, excitement, and inspiration.” By giving artists the time, space and resources they need to explore their craft, RATM helps to keep art alive in the region.

“It fosters innovation and collaboration, creating opportunities for artists to develop new ideas and share them with the community,” she said. “By nurturing artistic talent and showcasing diverse creative voices, the program helps position Lake Charles as a growing hub for the arts and strengthens the local cultural identity.”

‘History of Mardi Gras’

Each year, ICM hosts the historical exhibition “History of Mardi Gras” to celebrate the start of the season and the unique culture that Louisianaians everywhere cherish. This year, 16 intricate Mardi Gras costumes will be on display for museum patrons to view.

“It’s a special time for the community to gather and indulge before the Lent season,” Royer said. “We love hosting this exhibit each year to give all our guests, from local to visiting, a chance to see the elaborate accessories and gowns and to learn more about the history.”

Fourteen of the costumes are gowns designed by Deborah Lynn Dixon, founder of Ides of March Design Group — a Mardi Gras gowns and collars design company. The gowns feature Dixon’s unique fabric embossing technique, Royer said.

The exhibition will also feature a crown display on loan from the Mardi Gras Museum and an educational section highlighting Courir de Mardi Gras.

Museum patrons will deepen their appreciation for Mardi Gras’ rich history, artistry and cultural significance “both locally and beyond” while learning about the evolution of local and global traditions, said Royer. This aligns with ICM’s mission to be a “cultural hub” in Louisiana.

“Mardi Gras developed uniquely in every region it touched, reflecting the rich diversity of local traditions and communities,” she said. “This ensures that these stories, traditions, and artistic expressions are preserved and shared, fostering pride in our local identity while inviting visitors to experience the vibrant spirit of Southwest Louisiana.”

The reception is free and open to the public.