The Louisiana Art & Science Museum (LASM) will host its next Studio Saturday art workshop, Playing with Ancient Papyrus and Inks with Nathalie Roy, on Saturday, July 19, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM.  

This hands-on workshop invites participants to step back in time and experience the artistry and innovation of ancient Mediterranean writing techniques in collaboration with LASM’s year-long exhibition, Discoveries on the Nile: Exploring King Tut’s Tomb and the Amin Egyptian Collection. This class welcomes curious minds; no experience is necessary.

Acclaimed educator Nathalie Roy, a National Board-certified teacher and the 2021 Louisiana State Teacher of the Year, brings her passion for history and STEM education to this engaging experience. As an educator at Glasgow Middle School in Baton Rouge, she specializes in teaching Roman Technology and Myth Makers, guiding students through experimental archaeology, STEM challenges, and hands-on history labs to recreate ancient Roman daily life. 

This month’s Studio Saturday Art Workshop, designed for individuals ages 14 and up, allows class members of all talent levels. It will be held from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM in the Cary Saurage Art Studio in the Lamar Educational Classroom at LASM, with a $15 admission price for non-members and free for LASM members. Interested participants are encouraged to register early since space is limited for workshops. All supplies will be provided.

If you plan to attend one of our Studio Saturday art programs and would like to apply for LASM's Art Lean Scholarship, sponsored by Dr. Khanh Ho and LASM, please visit tinyurl.com/LASMArtLeanScholarship. You will be notified at least two weeks before the class if you have received the scholarship. For questions, contact LASM Curator and Public Programs Manager Tracey Barhorst at tbarhorst@lasm.org. 

Dearest Gentle Readers,

It has come to this author’s attention that a most delightful tea is soon to unfold at the Louisiana Art & Science Museum, on a grand balcony overlooking the majestic Mississippi river of Baton Rouge, no less. One simply must attend, lest one become the subject of next week's whispers.

Bonnets will be tied, waistcoats pressed, and teacups filled as the ton gathers for a charming adults-only morning of tea, treats, and conversation so delicious, it may just rival the pastries. Scandal? One can only hope.

To celebrate the debut of Threads of Evolution: Engineering a Community That Sparkles, LASM will host an opening reception on Thursday, July 24, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Guests will enjoy an exclusive first look at the collection, mingle in a high-energy atmosphere, and shop the latest Queen of Sparkles merchandise at a pop-up shop curated for the evening. The event is open to the public with admission priced at $20 for non-members and $10 for LASM members. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Tickets are available at lasm.org. 

This bold, vibrant exhibition explores the dazzling world where engineering meets imagination through the work of Jaime Glas Odom, founder and creative director of the nationally celebrated fashion brand, Queen of Sparkles. A Louisiana native and LSU alumna, Odom began her career as a petroleum engineer before launching her first business to fill the gap in flame-resistant workwear for women. Today, her signature sequin-covered designs are sold in over 1,500 boutiques across the U.S., earning a devoted following for their maximalist flair, joy-filled expression, and empowering spirit. 

“This exhibition is not just about fashion. It’s a spark-fueled celebration of confidence, creativity, and change,” said Odom. “Each garment tells a story of growth, strength, and self-expression — a reminder that beauty and purpose can go hand in hand.” 

Threads of Evolution invites visitors to experience the journey of Odom’s evolution from engineer to designer. It features a wide range of garments—from gameday glam to jazz-inspired couture—each piece a testament to her unique fusion of technical precision and whimsical flair. The show also honors LASM’s own history by showcasing a special 1920s-inspired design collaboration with her husband, Hunter Odom, founder of Second Line Shirts, created in celebration of the museum’s historic train station centennial.