Rayne's ‘Paint the Piano’ project viewing, kick-off party held

By Lisa Soileaux

RAYNE - A crowd of interested and ongoing supporters of Rayne’s newest project, “Paint the Piano Project” was in attendance for a wine and cheese party on Wednesday, July 23, along with an initial unveiling of the “project.”

Guests were treated to refreshments at The Crossing’s Guest House; afterwhich, the initial unveiling of the primed upright piano to be placed at The Depot once painted.

Guests were welcomed by chairperson Madelene Boudreaux, joined by Erin Roy, events coordinator at The Crossing, who thanked everyone for their attendance and showing their support for Rayne’s newest addition to the downtown area.

Mayor Roland Boudreaux, who has welcomed the project, also thanked everyone who has assisted with the project, not only with assistance but by donating to this worthy community project.

“It is great when you have citizens join forces for a positive thing for our city,” Mayor Boudreaux stated. “This is one of those projects, and I’m glad it is going forth.”

Chairperson Boudreaux then introduced the artist who will design the art for the piano, talented local artist Sheila Faulk. She has already applied the base coat, a light blue background to which vivid colors of the rainbow will be applied. Faulk also noted the anticipated placement of frogs peaking through a rainforest-type painting. 

What began as a simple project of the community-based “Rayne Remember” online site, the upright piano will eventually serve the City of Rayne as an added feature at The Depot for everyone’s pleasure. It will also be available for visitors to play at their leisure, in addition to providing a unique setting for photo ops.

Funds have been raised to purchase the piano and are still needed to complete the piano’s facelift and painting. Thanks to all who have helped thus far with this ongoing Rayne community project.