CROWLEY - While some would consider quilting an art for the elderly, several students in Acadia Parish spent part of Wednesday afternoon showing otherwise.

In a class lead by Patty Ronkartz as a part of the parish’s “LEAP UP” gifted enrichment program, five students studied and created quilted artworks of their own at The Gallery.

The gifted enrichment program is designed to academically enrich high-achieving students. In this case, the students did research on several different cultures’ quilts as well as viewed The Gallery’s exhibit before creating works based off of what they learned.

“The girls created a paper quilt, a collage and mini-magnetic quilts that some chose to make into necklaces,” explained Ronkartz. “The paper quilt and collage will also join the exhibit once we finish it today.”

The students all enjoyed the exhibit but were especially inspired by Kay Fruge’s quilting works which all fall under the experimental category.

Ronkartz has been involved with the program 27 years as well as being involved in the Acadia Players and Fireflies.

“It can leave you a bit worn out at the end of the day, but it’s a good worn out,” she said.

This will not be the only time LEAP UP visits The Gallery, according to Ronkartz. They are planning on using The Gallery in the coming months, including next month once a new exhibit is up.

“I’m so glad we have The Gallery here in town,” she said. “It’s a great place to learn as well as see some of the home-grown talent in the area.”

The five students involved in Wednesday’s activity were Olivia Guidry, Gabby LeBlanc, Makayla Bertrand, Jillian Boone and Brittany Leedon.

Any other group that would like to schedule a viewing of this month’s exhibit, or any other exhibits in the coming months, are invited to contact The Gallery at 783-3747 to schedule a viewing.