Introducing Wendy Menard

Wendy Menard is a Lafayette-based painter and resident visual artist here at Basin Arts. Wendy was surrounded by creatives from an early age, with a father who was a welder and a mother who was a seamstress. Throughout her adult life, Wendy faced several health challenges, beginning with endometriosis. During those times, she sought out a creative outlet to help her escape. In 2010, her husband gave her an at-home course titled, Introduction to Oil Painting. To her surprise, Wendy discovered a natural understanding of art and began creating her own paintings.

In 2011, Wendy was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma, a benign brain tumor that required surgical removal. At the time, Wendy was a schoolteacher with 15 years of experience and a Master’s degree in education. Although the surgeon successfully removed the tumor, Wendy was left with lasting side effects. In 2013, Wendy was also diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Wendy’s entire life was altered as she now has to manage a form of chronic pain or physical limitation resulting from these conditions every day. Wendy believes God brought painting into her life because he knew her journey would look different than how she expected. While it’s been difficult to accept that she’s not the same person I once was, Wendy strives to live each day to the fullest with gratitude and purpose.

Painting has become Wendy’s therapy and my calling. When she paints, she does not feel her chronic pain, and she’s able to pour her heart into every piece. She primarily works in oils using a palette knife, though she also enjoys experimenting with thick acrylics. In the future, she plans to explore other mediums through online classes and local workshops. Wendy’s hope is that her work brings joy and encouragement to everyone who experiences it. "Making the world more colorful one painting at a time."

Who is in your Art Circle?

My art circle consists of my husband, Brian, and my two adult children, Mark and Marissa. My extended family has always been supportive of my artistic journey, and their encouragement means more to me than words can express. Several talented artists also play an important role in my growth. Megan Bertrand, a member of the Vermilion Arts Council and an art teacher at Vermilion Catholic High School, has continually encouraged me to pursue my artistic path in Louisiana after I returned home from living in Georgia. She introduced me to fellow artist Dirk Guidry during an event, and he has become a trusted mentor and friend. Dirk consistently encourages me to pursue my art career, gain exposure through art organizations and online platforms, and grow professionally. Whenever I have questions about art or the business side of art, I know I can turn to him for guidance. Watching his dedication and perseverance inspires me to keep pushing forward and take creative risks. All of the Basin Arts resident artists are also part of my art circle. Kathy Mere has been a positive influence, generously sharing her artistic knowledge and thoughtful advice. Her selflessness and support mean everything to me. Jade Deshotel encourages me to step beyond my comfort zone and think outside the box. As I design a new website for my art, she has graciously offered to help — her generosity goes far beyond artistic encouragement. Vivian Broussard has been a steady source of inspiration, showing me how to balance life’s many responsibilities while continuing to grow an artistic career. She reminds me how important it is to prioritize each day, and I enjoy our conversations about art, family, and life. In time, I know I will get to know the rest of our art family here at Basin. I am excited about the opportunity to learn from them too. A new addition to my art circle is Jennifer from The Speak Easy Gallery, who invited me to display several pieces in her new gallery. I am excited for this opportunity to connect with more artists and members of our community and continue expanding my creative journey.

How Do You Expand Your Art Circle?

I plan on expanding my art circle by actively being involved in my studio at Basin Arts. Basin Arts has become an art hub for our local Acadiana community. By getting involved with numerous art shows and workshops that Basin has to offer, I will gain knowledge and exposure in the arts. I am participating in the program called Bare Walls. This program has brought my paintings into businesses and given me exposure in the local community. I am currently working on joining several other art organizations in my community. These organizations are Acadiana Center for the Arts, Lafayette Art Association, Louisiana Craft Guild, Nunu's Art and Collective, and other galleries in bigger cities in Louisiana. These organizations will allow me to get to know other artists in the local region as well as the state. It will provide my artistic career to gain exposure and participate in workshops and art shows in other cities besides Lafayette. Our local art hub offers many opportunities to grow as an artist. It is my hope to enter art competitions like "Eye of the Beholder" or "Birds of a Feather" through the Lafayette Art Association. My long-term goal is to expand my art circle by participating in art shows like The Big Easel and having a booth at festivals in southwest Louisiana. I am looking forward in expanding not only my art circle but also my knowledge of different art techniques by taking online classes dealing with a new art medium.

What value do you see in having a creative community?

Establishing and connecting with a creative community has given me the confidence to share my work in multiple spaces within our community. Through collaboration rather than competition, artists gain knowledge, technique, and valuable ideas throughout their creative journey. The artists in my circle are an invaluable resource as I continue to grow my emerging art career. Having a strong network has also helped me expand my reach through social media and my new website, allowing my artwork to connect with a wider audience.

How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?

My artistic approach is rooted in growth, reflection, and conversation. My work invites viewers to pause, reflect, question, and engage in meaningful dialogue. It is my hope that each piece sparks conversation, encourages people to reflect on their own lives and experiences, and helps build bridges between different viewpoints within our community. Art becomes a safe meeting place in a world that is constantly changing and often feels uncertain. By making time for one another and supporting each other, we can create a beautiful, peaceful, and nurturing creative community where connection and understanding can flourish.

Our weekly Art Circle series profiles artists throughout the community and is sponsored in part by Lafayette Visitor Enterprise Fund, managed by Lafayette Travel