By: Nicholls State University

THIBODAUX, La. -- The Nicholls Art Department raised the bar yet again with the annual spring art exhibit and fundraiser, Art Works, which set a profit record for the second consecutive year.

Held on April 2, the event raised more than $39,000, topping last year’s record-setting $30,000. Art Works benefits students through scholarships, grants and equipment and technology upgrades. Since its inception in 2014, Art Works has funded more than $45,000 in scholarships and even more for grants that have helped more than 25 students host exhibits and attend conferences across the country.

Known for its tours, demonstrations, hands-on activities and art auction, this year the department took it a step further, adding a live painting from Donaldsonville artist Alvin Batiste, a special viewing of the late George Rodrigue’s “Blue Dog Steinway” and a printing demonstration using a steamroller.