​Erika E. Love was born on February 8, 1982, in Alexandria, Louisiana, to James Bowie and Lula Johnson, both of whom are artists. Growing up surrounded by creativity, Erika naturally gravitated toward artistic expression. Formal training in art began early, with art classes starting in elementary school and continuing through college at Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA), where she studied painting, drawing, and photography.
Though art had always been present, it was during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020 that Erika fully embraced the medium as a means of self-expression. The pandemic offered the opportunity to explore art as an outlet, fostering a deeper connection to creativity and laying the foundation for a professional artistic practice.
Central to Erika E. Love’s artistic philosophy is the use of bold, bright colors that set her work apart. Inspired by new places and experiences, she often plans projects meticulously, ensuring clarity of vision and the proper materials to execute ideas effectively. Thematically, her work frequently highlights African American cultural elements while striving to appeal to a universal audience.
Faith plays an integral role in Erika’s work, with recurring imagery of small churches symbolizing personal spiritual grounding and the acknowledgment of God’s place in her life. This element of faith resonates deeply with audiences, often receiving glowing feedback. Despite facing marketing challenges, Erika aspires for her art to spark meaningful conversations and endure as a legacy of passion and creativity.
Two major influences on her work are Clementine Hunter and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Hunter’s storytelling and emphasis on Louisiana’s landscapes echo in Erika’s vibrant and textured scenes. Basquiat’s raw expressiveness and focus on African American identity inspire the emotional depth and cultural relevance of Erika’s pieces. Together, these influences underscore the importance of honoring personal heritage while pushing boundaries in contemporary art.
One of Erika E. Love’s signature series features paintings of small churches, which not only highlight her technical skill with bold, striking colors but also carry a personal narrative. These works embody themes of faith, community, and perseverance. For example, one painting captures a church nestled in a vibrant Louisiana landscape, with bright yellows, blues, and greens dominating the scene. The use of color conveys hope and reverence, while the subject matter invites reflection on the role of spirituality in everyday life.
Another noteworthy series explores bold contemporary aesthetics inspired by Basquiat. These works fuse abstract elements with cultural motifs, creating a dialogue between tradition and innovation. Through layering techniques and expressive brushwork, the pieces challenge viewers to reconsider their perceptions of African American art and identity.
Erika E. Love’s work holds a unique place in contemporary art by merging bold aesthetics with deeply personal themes. Drawing from the legacies of artists like Clementine Hunter and Jean-Michel Basquiat, she contributes to a broader dialogue about cultural identity, artistic innovation, and accessibility. Like Hunter, she roots her work in regional storytelling, and like Basquiat, she aims to elevate African American voices within a broader artistic landscape.
In the context of this semester’s studies, Erika’s approach aligns with El Anatsui’s use of cultural symbolism and Mark Bradford’s reinterpretation of African American identity through innovative techniques. These connections highlight the importance of bridging the past and present while addressing contemporary issues.
From the opening of her art studio, For the Love of Alexandria, to her commitment to creating vibrant works that inspire conversation, Erika E. Love demonstrates a dedication to art that is as personal as it is universal. Her ability to infuse bold colors and themes into her work ensures its lasting impact. For future generations, Erika hopes to leave a legacy of passion, creativity, and faith—a testament to the enduring power of art.

​Hey everyone! If you haven’t heard of Kelly Pepper yet, it’s time to get acquainted with this amazing woman who’s been shaking things up in the world of arts and education. From championing local cultural projects to leading major educational initiatives, Kelly’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
A True Arts EnthusiastKelly’s love for the arts is pretty much woven into her career. She kicked things off as the Executive Director of the Center for the Arts in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It was the perfect start for someone who’s been all about promoting and celebrating the arts.
Next up, she brought her flair for marketing and public relations to the New Orleans Opera. Imagine the magic of blending creative promotion with a passion for opera—that was Kelly’s gig! And if that wasn’t enough, she also made a huge impact as the Development Director for the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, boosting support and visibility for local artists and arts programs.
Leading the Charge in EducationKelly didn’t stop at the arts. Her career in education has been equally impressive. She was the Development Director for the LSU College of Music and Dramatic Arts and Swine Palace, where she played a huge role in supporting the college’s mission and helping students shine.
Then, she took on the role of Executive Director of Institutional Advancement at SOWELA Technical Community College. Here, she focused on community engagement and development, proving that she’s as dedicated to supporting education as she is to promoting the arts.
Rocking the Nonprofit WorldKelly’s impact on the nonprofit sector is huge. As the President and CEO of the Louisiana Association of Nonprofit Organizations (LANO), she worked hard to strengthen nonprofits across Louisiana. She’s also been involved with the Louisiana Office of Cultural Development, where she focused on community and cultural development—talk about making a difference!
A Bit of Academic FlairAnd it doesn’t stop there. Kelly’s also dabbled in academia. She’s taught Advanced Development Strategies as an adjunct faculty member at Louisiana State University. Sharing her wealth of knowledge with future leaders? Definitely a highlight of her career.
A Personal Touch in Her Artistic SpaceOne of the most personal aspects of Kelly’s life is her connection to art and space. Her painting—a beautiful, intricate work—offers a glimpse into her soul. It’s more than just a piece of art; it’s a reflection of her life and experiences. From family photos to the cozy ritual of fixing her coffee each morning in a special spot, her artwork captures the essence of her daily life. This personal space is where she starts her day and finds inspiration, making the painting not just a decoration but a deeply personal symbol of her life and passions.
Community Spirit and Personal TouchA Baton Rouge native and University of Tennessee grad, Kelly’s roots run deep. She’s a proud member of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority and has been active with organizations like Actors Equity Association and SWLA Public Relations Professionals. Her community spirit and dedication shine through in everything she does.
Currently Making an Impact at LSUARight now, Kelly is the President of the LSUA Foundation. Her work here continues her legacy of leadership and support for education. Whether she’s steering initiatives or rallying support, Kelly’s commitment to LSUA and its mission is clear.
In short, Kelly Pepper is a powerhouse in the worlds of arts and education. Her career is a fantastic mix of leadership, creativity, and dedication. Add in her deeply personal connection to art and daily rituals, and it’s clear that Kelly’s impact will be felt for years to come.

In a world where service to others often takes a backseat to personal gain, Trayce Snow stands out as a beacon of dedication and community spirit. Her life is a testament to the power of commitment, forged from a childhood in a military family and a career spent in service to others. With a career Army father and a family deeply rooted in military service, Snow naturally gravitated toward a life dedicated to public good. This path led her to the U.S. Air Force, where she served as a nurse, caring for those who served our nation.

For the past 25 years, Alexandria has been fortunate to call Trayce Snow one of its own. From the moment she arrived, Snow sought ways to contribute, channeling her background and passion into making the city a better place for all its residents.

Her journey began with a nursing degree from the University of Kansas in 1985, laying the foundation for her career in healthcare. However, Snow’s drive to broaden her impact led her to pursue further education. In 2008, she earned a degree in communication studies from Louisiana State University at Alexandria, equipping her with the tools to effect change on a larger scale.

Snow's professional career is marked by her 12-year tenure at The Rapides Foundation, where she played a pivotal role in advancing public health initiatives. Her work there focused on communications, community building, budget oversight, and board participation, all of which she mastered before retiring as the Senior Program Officer for the Healthy Behaviors and Healthcare Access Initiatives. Her efforts have had a lasting impact on the community, ensuring that essential health services are accessible to all.

Yet, Snow’s influence extends far beyond her professional achievements. She is a passionate advocate for the arts and a staunch supporter of the creative community in Central Louisiana. Serving on the boards of the Alexandria Museum of Art and the Louisiana Partnership for the Arts, Snow has consistently championed the arts as a vital component of community life. Her commitment to nurturing creativity is also reflected in her involvement with the Friends of the Rapides Library, where she promotes literacy and learning.

Snow’s dedication to service and community extends into numerous other areas as well. She volunteers with the Adult Literacy Initiative, helping adults improve their reading skills and expand their opportunities. She has also served on the boards of the Greater Alexandria Economic Authority (GAEDA), Glass Act Recycling, and the advisory council of the Good Food Project at the Food Bank of Central Louisiana. Each of these roles highlights her commitment to creating a more equitable, sustainable, and connected community.

At the heart of Tracy Snow’s work is her mission statement: "Equity Meets Opportunity." This guiding principle drives her campaign to ensure that all residents of Alexandria, regardless of their district or background, have equitable access to city services, programs, and public resources. Snow is committed to fostering open communication, promoting transparency, and supporting constructive cooperation with city administration. Her goal is simple yet profound: to create a community where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Trayce Snow's life and career exemplify the best of what it means to serve others. Her unwavering commitment to equity, her support for the arts, and her dedication to fostering a strong, connected community make her a true pillar of Alexandria. For those who know her, Trayce Snow is more than a public servant; she is a dear friend, a passionate advocate, and a steadfast supporter of the arts and the people of Central Louisiana.

​Over the past year, I've dedicated myself to a captivating series of paintings that delve into the intimate connection between people and their living spaces. For me, someone's environment serves as a profound gateway into their personality, reflecting their passions, quirks, and inner world. This project has been a collaborative effort, featuring both volunteers and individuals whom I knew I simply had to capture on canvas.
One such individual is Erica E. Love.
"E. Love because I'm easy to Love."
I first met Erica in the midst of a lively paint party, where her infectious energy and warmth drew everyone around her. Her shop, a sanctuary of vibrant colors and intriguing textures, exudes a welcoming sense of comfort. Walking into Erica's realm feels like stepping into a world where every object and hue has been carefully curated to reflect its own distinct personality.
The decision to invite Erica to participate in my series was an easy one. Beyond her vibrant presence and artistic surroundings, Erica is a pillar of our community. She embodies kindness and generosity, always ready with a helping hand and a smile for anyone who enters her shop.
Erica's support extends far beyond her business walls. Whether it's through community events, local fundraisers, or simply lending an ear to those in need, Erica's commitment to uplifting others is unwavering. Her passion for connecting with people and creating a positive impact is palpable in every brushstroke of her life.
Capturing Erica's essence on canvas was both a privilege and a challenge. I sought to convey not just her physical presence but also the vibrant spirit and warmth that define her. Through meticulous attention to detail and a palette that mirrored the richness of her personality, I aimed to create a portrait that resonates with authenticity and depth.
As I reflect on this journey of painting people and their spaces, Erica stands out as a shining example of how our environments shape and reflect who we are. Her shop isn't just a place of business; it's a canvas of her soul, painted with love, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to making others feel welcome and valued.
In sharing Erica's story through art, I hope to capture not only her likeness but also the essence of what makes her such an extraordinary individual. She reminds us that our spaces, whether humble or grand, can be powerful reflections of our inner selves and sources of inspiration for those around us.
As my series continues to evolve, I look forward to exploring more stories like Erica's—stories that celebrate the beauty of human connection and the profound impact of our environments on who we become. Each portrait is not just a painting but a testament to the unique narratives that shape our lives and the spaces we inhabit

Erica E. Love
​Oil on Canvas
16 x 20 inches, 2024