When people in Red River Parish see the above symbol, most know that it is about our very own Margaret Jones. The symbol reminds us of her smile and her laugh and her great talent as an artist. She has been kind enough to loan our library two of her paintings so that we can all enjoy the beauty she has shared. Below is her story in her own words:

“I began painting in early 1972 in Austin, Texas, and was soon accepted as a member of the Austin Palette Club. I was an active member of this club, constantly studying and enrolling in workshops until when, in the summer of 1974, my husband was transferred to Tokyo, Japan. While there I began to paint in a completely different style, not at all like the realism that I sought in Texas. After only four short months in Japan, we returned to Texas where once again I translated those beautiful hill country landscapes to canvas. After traveling with my husband and our four sons during his Air Force Career, we retired to Red River Parish in Louisiana. Since that time, I have taught art in the public and private schools in our parish, as well as working in the Art-in-Education program for the Shreveport Regional Arts Council. I also continued to share what art knowledge and techniques I’ve gained by teaching workshops in Louisiana and surrounding states. I have held memberships, and have been active, in several different art guilds and councils and have won ribbons and cash awards in many juried exhibitions and competitions. Through all of this I have been grateful for any success and humbly acknowledge that ‘I am still learning.’”

It is our honor at the Red River Parish Library to recognize the talented artists and writers from our local area. A visit to the library is an opportunity to view some of Mrs. Jones’ artwork and to acknowledge the contributions of others.