Hammond Regional Arts Center Visits Midway Elementary School
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FEBRUARY 6, 2026
Hammond, LA —Hammond Regional Arts Center (HRAC) continued its commitment to community-based arts education with a special visit to Mrs. Amber Majeau’s class at Midway Elementary School on January 30.
Executive Director Melissa Griffin spent time with students reading Love from The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. During the reading, Griffin led an engaging discussion about love, the symbolism of the heart shape, and Carle’s distinctive artistic style—particularly his bold use of color and layered collage techniques.
The visit was part of HRAC’s Art Engagement Outreach Program, which seeks to bring meaningful arts experiences to community members beyond the walls of the Arts Center. As part of the hands-on component, HRAC Arts Educator Shayla Kelly, joined by intern Lily Cosby, guided students in creating heart-shaped collage artworks and coloring butterflies inspired by Carle’s work. Students eagerly shared what they love most while exploring color, texture, and creativity through their art.
The students’ finished pieces are now proudly displayed in HRAC’s street-facing window at 217 E. Thomas St. in Downtown Hammond, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Community members are invited to stop by and view Mrs. Majeau’s class’ artwork any time of day now through February 27th. Regular gallery hours are Wednesday through Friday from noon to 6 p.m.
Through initiatives like this, Hammond Regional Arts Center continues to foster creativity, connection, and access to the arts throughout the region—meeting the community where they are and celebrating young voices through artistic expression. More about the visit to Midway Elementary can be found at www.hammondarts.org/outreach. More information about the Hammond Regional Arts Center can be found online at www.hammondarts.org or by calling (985) 542-7113.
Photos by Phillip Colwart
