Sacred Oak Art Collective
@sacredoakartcollective-acadiana
Description
In the heart of Franklin, Louisiana, where Victorian lampposts cast their warm glow along the charming, oak-lined streets, stands a place where history, nature, and art intertwine—Sacred Oak Art Collective at the Historic Tavern of Shadowlawn. Here, beneath the sprawling branches of the majestic Southern live oak trees, local and indigenous artists breathe life into their work, drawing inspiration from their roots and the ancient trees that have witnessed centuries of stories. The Sacred Oak represents more than just a symbol of strength and endurance—it embodies the spirit of the community, the interconnectedness of cultures, and the sacred relationship between the past and present. Each piece of art displayed within the historic tavern’s walls is a testament to that legacy. The collective is a haven for creatives, from indigenous artisans honoring the traditions of their ancestors to contemporary Southern artists re-imagining the region's rich history through modern eyes. Situated in a nationally accredited Main Street district, the gallery sits at the crossroads of time and culture, inviting visitors to experience the beauty of Franklin—a quaint, yet vibrant city steeped in southern charm. The Sacred Oak stands as a reminder of the deep roots that anchor this city, a place where art, history, and community are as timeless as the oaks that shade its streets. Here, the past and present coexist, offering a space where stories, like the trees themselves, grow ever stronger with age. At Sacred Oak Art Collective, our mission is not only to celebrate the arts but also to foster a vibrant, sustainable local economy. With our Director being our local Main Street Director, Executive Director of a statewide arts organization, and champion for economic development we believe that shopping small is one of the most powerful ways to support our community’s entrepreneurs, artisans, and creators. Through a blend of creative initiatives, strategic partnerships, and community-focused events, we aim to encourage the people of our town to embrace the mayor's Shop Local First, Eat Local First, Play Local First, Fuel Local First movement, ensuring that our local businesses thrive. As a gallery housed in a historic tavern, Sacred Oak Art Collective is perfectly positioned to showcase a wide range of local talent. Our space will provide opportunities for local artists, artisans, and craftspeople to exhibit and sell their work. By curating a variety of high-quality handmade goods, from fine art and sculpture to jewelry, textiles, and more, we will create a destination that encourages the community to shop for unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that they can’t find in big-box stores.