By Emily Burleigh

Gallery One EIIIVEN in Leesville challenged artists to think “inside and outside the box.” Over 25 pieces created with that challenge in mind are on display at the gallery, 111 S 3rd St.

Until Feb. 22, the gallery will feature art from a diverse group of artists who all explored the motif of “the box:” Joey Governale, Mary Maddock, Brenda Morrison, Paul Nettles,  Elle Pollard, Noah Pollard, Jack Price, Warren Prichard, Morgan Primeaux, James Turner and Michael Yankowski.

From the “altars” crafted by Yankowski to the “whimsical” dry-clay creature sculptures molded by Morrison, their pieces are focused on “the box,” or what the artist “needs as a focal point, or a point of departure,” said Tony McDonald, gallery coordinator.

The exhibit asks artists to “think inside and outside the box,” literally and figuratively.

“The collective of artists in this exhibit have provided a range of interpretations, emotions and media in their work, all dealing with boxes in some way,” he said. “Artists represented in this exhibit include accomplished craftsmen that are represented in quality New Orleans galleries, retired architects, mid-career artists, self-taught folk artists and a group of pre-teens,” McDonald said.

The artists engaged with several mediums, including exotic woods, styrofoam, paper collage and claymation stop-action video, creating an explorative art experience for patrons.

McDonald said the exhibit should inspire guests to see art in everyday life and get creative.

“We hope that those exposed to this exhibit realize what beauty and mystery can be created from common objects, and we encourage them to try to try their hand at working outside the box.”

The gallery is open from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm. Thursday through Saturday.