There are five small art boxes placed around Lake Charles. Each one holds work left behind by whoever came before you. You can look through it, add something you made, or take a piece home.
The boxes belong to the kaleidoscope galleries, a program by The Art Factory SWLA. Each one is a small self-serve gallery that the community stocks and restocks on its own. They can be operated at any time of the day and require no payment.
How the boxes work
Each box holds art that visitors have left behind. Since people are regularly adding and removing work, what's in a given box changes over time. The program is open to anyone who wants to take part, regardless of experience.
The one request from The Art Factory is that any piece you leave be original rather than a copy or a print. The boxes accept a range of original work. That includes paintings, drawings, small sculptures, and handmade jewelry. As long as a piece is small enough to fit, it can go in the box.
Where to find the boxes and what's nearby
The five boxes are spread across Lake Charles, with each location being near local attractions that will make your visit worth it.
Luna Downtown
The box near Luna Bar and Grill Downtown (419 Ryan St.) places you in the heart of downtown Lake Charles, surrounded by local dining and entertainment. Nearby favorites include Pujo St. Café, Cotten's Downtown, and Panorama Music House, who along with Luna host live music events on most evenings and weekends.
After your meal, take a short walk west to Bord du Lac Park and enjoy the scenic lakefront and your new art.
Central School Arts & Humanities Center
Over at the Arts & Humanities Council (809 Kirby St.), you're at the Central School Arts & Humanities Center, a restored schoolhouse that now houses the Ben Mount Theatre, dance classes, the Literacy Council, and studios. It's the perfect starting point to observe the local art scene alongside your new find.
Imperial Calcasieu Museum
The Imperial Calcasieu Museum (204 W. Sallier St.) sits near Downtown Lake Charles and is home to the historic Sallier Oak. Spend time beneath the nearly 400-year-old stately oak's branches and admire the permanent sculptures from renowned artist and sculptor, Lynda Benglis.
Inside the museum you'll find artifacts depicting the history of the Imperial Calcasieu Region along with rotating exhibits within the gallery spaces. It's an easy way to spend an afternoon delving into Southwest Louisiana's history.
The Art Factory
The box at The Art Factory (496 W. Prien Lake Rd.) is next to Prien Lake Mall, near Kohl's, which makes it one of the most convenient stops. You can shop, catch a movie at the Cinemark next door, or grab a bite in the Mall.
Near Central Library
The last box is near the Central Library (301 W. Claude St.) in mid-city Lake Charles. McNeese State University is minutes away, providing walking paths and quiet benches overlooking the scenic quad. Plan your visit in time with a performance at Bulber Auditorium and Tritico Theatre or catch a game at the Townsley Law Arena, Navarre Stadium, or Joe Miller Ball Park.
A couple of minutes away is Lake Area Adventures and Crying Eagle Brewery if you're seeking great food and fun environments.
Take a Piece of Lake Charles With You
Whether you're searching for your next creative inspiration or simply exploring a new part of the city. The kaleidoscope galleries offer a unique way to experience the community. Every visit is different, with new artwork, new stories, and a chance to leave something of your own behind.
As you explore the five locations, you might discover that the art you remember most isn't hanging on the wall. It's waiting inside a small box here in Lake Charles.
