10/26/2025
We’re still processing it all. The diversity, creativity, energy, and connections that filled the museum were exactly what we hoped to cultivate. We watched people from varying walks of life meeting, conversing, laughing, and connecting. One thing we heard again and again was, “I was talking with people I’ve never had the chance to engage with before.” That was the goal.
If you’ve been paying any attention, you’ve probably noticed that LMFA has been absolutely buzzing this month with events of all kinds. Yet, when the concept of The Lounge @ LMFA was first pitched to the Executive Director, she immediately understood the mission, caught the vision, and jumped on board. She joined us at the East Texas Artists Forum’s first “Pop-up” event that same week. She hardly knew us, and yet, she plugged us in. We are profoundly grateful for her trust and confidence in this project.
Between multiple events, exhibit openings across two facilities, unpredictable construction issues, and the realities of life, the LMFA staff and leadership have been stretched thin and running on fumes. This week brought some unexpected challenges, and from our perspective — yes — mistakes were made, and some things could have absolutely been handled better. However, those quick decisions were made by leadership from afar, in the midst of complex circumstances that, believe it or not, extend far beyond art.
On the day of the event, the executive director, the participating LMFA staff/volunteers and Guild couldn’t have been more supportive, excited, or accommodating. When the rain came, they dropped the entry fee and opened the doors so folks could stay safe, stay dry, hang out, and have fun — right up until the unfortunate cancellation of Bowling for Soup.
Life is hard. Doing things is tricky. When you’re dancing on the edge, you’re going to lose your balance sometimes. You’ll hit potholes. You’ll run into walls. You’ll earn a few scars. But those scars remind you that you’re still here — still creating, still trying, still building.
Let’s all try to start from a place of grace — for ourselves and for each other. This community is too small, too vibrant, and too full of ideas to let setbacks divide us. Start with grace. And when you meet someone who can’t meet you there just yet, pivot around them — and keep going.
