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I have a thing for art. And luckily enough, there’s an array of artistic expression in Baton Rouge showcased for those of us who simply love to be in the presence of the stuff. In fact, right downtown in the Capital City opportunities abound to discover how the Louisiana region distinguishes itself from the rest of the world.

I am definitely not an art connoisseur, and have very little knowledge about art history or modern design techniques. But we can learn a lot from the perspectives of creative minds. If you want to truly know a place, it will often present itself through the brush strokes of those who wish to immortalize it.

At the Louisiana Art and Science Museum on River Road, I found myself gazing at Ellsworth Woodward’s Paradise Wood, which hangs in the Impressionists and Modern Masters exhibit alongside infamous pieces by Monet and Picasso, Matisse and Renoir. Quoting an information plaque next to the piece, Woodward “sought to capture the southern sense of place, believing that an artist had to draw inspiration from his or her native area to achieve artistic honesty and spiritual fulfillment.” Woodworth was an influential artistic figure in Louisiana in the late 19th century and a devoted promoter of Southern art. In Paradise Wood, two cows graze lazily beneath moss-draped oaks. To me, it depicts the languid reverie that seems to be contagious in Louisiana.

Across the street at the LSU Museum of Art in the Shaw Center, I found a gallery showcasing work by Swedish-born Knute Heldner. In the early 1900s, Heldner fell for the gorgeous landscapes of Louisiana and became renowned for his bayou scenes. Like Woodward, the scenes Heldner depicted are peaceful and have an enchanted quality. In one painting, the impossible colors of the sky, the ethereal atmosphere and the subdued light made me want to crawl in and take a nap. The essence of Louisiana scenery as depicted by both Heldner and Woodward translates a rich affection for place and a deep loyalty to natural beauty. It’s a beauty that draws in millions of visitors and quietly convinces them to stay.

Downstairs at the Shaw Center in the Brunner Gallery, I felt catapulted into the future. The gallery is an open loft overlooking the lobby and displays bold and innovative work by local artists. One such artist is Rick Brunner, whose current exhibition of wooden sculptures and wall hangings are made from salvaged wood that once littered his yard after the hurricane. Now, a literal piece of Brunner’s place has been transformed into a gorgeous piece of art, polished to the sheen that a Louisiana tree deserves.

Another utilization of art as a response to nature’s devastation is occurring through the Hurricane Poster Project, exhibited in the Old State Capitol. Artists from around the world contributed poster designs to raise money for hurricane victims through Red Cross. Here, anguish and hope collide to create art in support of the people who love this place and could not imagine living anywhere else. It’s a theme that weaves into the tranquil scenes and symbolic art of Louisiana. In the eyes of locals, this place is more beautiful than otherworldly paintings by Southern masters. It is more than the polished wooden sculptures hanging on gallery walls. As a subject of masterpieces, it is art in itself -- art that many call home.