Art Talk Recap 4/29/2025
art is vital to downtown hammond
Art Talk Recap
Hosted: April 29, 2025 – 5:00 PM
Location: Hammond Regional Arts Center
Presented by: Downtown Development District (DDD), Hammond Regional Arts Center, Hammond Art Guild, and 106 Night Market
The Art Talk gathered a diverse group of local artists, musicians, poets, and authors for an open discussion about the future of the arts in Hammond. Participants spanned a range of ages, backgrounds, and creative disciplines. The evening’s goal was to explore what’s missing in Hammond’s current arts ecosystem and to generate ideas for building a stronger, more connected creative community.
The evening began with brief introductions, where each participant shared the kind of work they created. Attendees then divided into five breakout groups to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing local artists. Each group presented their takeaways at the end of the session.
Key Takeaways from Group Discussions:
Group 1
• More art spaces, including a music venue
• Open mic nights for music and poetry
• Small-scale art exhibitions
• A centralized communication hub
Group 2
• Stronger connections with collectors, buyers, and fellow creatives
• Rebranding Hammond as an arts destination
Group 3
• Better communication between local artists
• Defining what makes a thriving arts community
• Need for collaborative, shared creative spaces
Group 4
• Accessibility—improved transportation, inclusive locations, and programming
• Community venues that are welcoming and open to all
Group 5
• More opportunities for artists to sell and showcase their work
• Mailing lists or message boards to share information and events
• Casual, approachable art-focused gatherings
This conversation made one thing clear: when we come together, we amplify our collective voice. While the DDD is proud to support the arts, we know we can’t lead this movement alone. The spotlight belongs to the many individuals and organizations helping to shape Hammond’s creative future.
We’re excited about the potential for future Art Talks—and we’ll gladly help host again. Have ideas or want to get involved but don’t know where to start? Reach out—we’ll point you in the right direction.
Become a Member of the Hammond Art Guild
This long-standing organization promotes visual arts in the region. Membership is open to artists and art supporters alike and includes opportunities to exhibit your work, attend educational programs, and connect with fellow creatives. They’re also seeking a new committee member to take meeting minutes—reach out if that’s your skillset!
Learn more or join: hammondartguild.com
Join the 106 Night Market’s Creative Committee
Support local artists and makers through one of Hammond’s most vibrant recurring events. If you're interested in joining the planning team, apply here or email 106nightmarket@gmail.com if you have any questions.
Support the Hammond Regional Arts Center (HRAC)
Your membership helps fund exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. Members receive special invites, discounted rates, and more. HRAC also hosts regular exhibitions—artists are encouraged to apply!
Join here: hammondarts.org/join-today
Apply to exhibit: hammondarts.org/exhibitions
The Downtown Development District in collaboration with the Hammond Regional Arts Center has applied for a ‘Partners in Place’ technical assistance opportunity through the Louisiana Cultural District’s program. We are waiting to see if we receive this award. Here’s more about this opportunity
Led by the internationally recognized Creative Community Strategies Founder Kevin King, this initiative will provide free, tailored support to help selected districts:
Elevate creative expression
Engage communities
Reimagine public spaces
Strengthen local economies
What’s included?
Comprehensive site analysis
Public art planning
Community workshops
Partnership strategies
Long-term sustainability plans… and more.