Gwen is a visual artist, therapeutic arts specialist, floral designer, and arts grant administrator, who has enjoyed producing works of art for decades. Gwen’s pursuit of her passion for the arts, was supported and nurtured significantly, when she received a full arts scholarship to Xavier University in New Orleans, and obtained degrees in Art Therapy and Fine Arts. Gwen’s art, particularly her most recent paintings, combines her love of flowers, whimsey, various elements of design, and diversity. She admits her work as an artist is purposefully open to interpretation, intended to evoke feelings, and perhaps conjure up emotions of private thoughts, or experiences relevant to the viewer. “I rarely sketch on paper before painting, allowing me to create in an unrestrictive fashion, repositioning my subject, if needed, to reflect my mood, environment, or the images dancing around in my head,” says Richard. Gwen’s most recent exhibitions were a solo show at the Acadiana Center for the Arts in Lafayette and a group showing with other Louisiana artists at the Louisiana State Archives in Baton Rouge. Since making Lafayette home, Gwen has been acknowledged for her contributions to the arts in our community. Previously featured in the Times of Acadiana in an article entitled “Starting Over” and another entitled ”Who’s Influencing the Arts in Acadiana.“ In addition recently, her story and photos of her paintings were featured in an article entitled “Medicinal Artistry” in Acadiana Profile Magazine. This native New Orleans artist has truly, whole heartily embraced Acadiana.