ST. MARTINVILLE — The distinguished work of world-renowned local artist Louise Guidry has found a temporary home gracing the walls of the equally distinguished La Maison restaurant in St. Martinville.

Guidry, 79, has had tremendous commercial success, she said, not only in Louisiana but in faraway places like Japan and India. She calls herself a grandmother who blossomed late in life.

Guidry’s texture and color-rich mixed-media collage work also graces the walls of the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion, St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church and some of the most prestigious galleries in New Orleans and throughout Europe.

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Restaurant owners Bob and Charmaine Savasten said they have opened the doors of La Maison during art walks in St. Martinville in the past, but showing only Guidry’s work independently of any event, is something new.

When the couple retired, New Olreans native Charmaine Savasten knew she wanted to come home, she said, but not to New Orleans. She wanted an old house on the water and the couple set their sights on exactly that in the small community.

The Savastens also saw beauty in the La Maison building, which at that time Charmaine said had been vacant for more than four years.

They set out restoring the property to some of its original grandeur, finally opening the doors to one of St. Martinville’s premier gourmet eateries. Charmaine Savasten said bringing people through the doors has been a struggle, however, and bringing in local artwork for display is one way they hope to remedy that problem.

Close to a dozen of Guidry’s pieces hang on the walls of the restaurant, adding to the decor a vibrancy and movement.

Guidry said she went back to school at age 58, completed her bachelor of fine arts and has spent her time since traveling the world and soaking up inspiration from her surroundings.

Guidry said early in her art career much of her inspiration came from nature. As she moves more toward abstract pieces, she still draws from the outdoors to an extent. Her travels inspire her, she said, and texture and color still intrigue her.

The display at La Maison, which is billed as a “Selection of Works” will open officially Saturday night with a wine and cheese reception beginning at 6 p.m. Those who attend will have a chance to visit with the artist and the Savastens hope, stay for dinner.

For more information call 342-2990.