This annual festival was first inspired by Mrs. Jennie Reynolds in October 1955 under the name Caldwell Parish Library Art Festival. The festival, chaired by Mrs. Reynolds and local librarian, Willie Mae Saab, attracted a showing of 500 pieces of art and crafts.

​Because of the phenomenal growth of the festival, it was recognized as a corporation in 1965 and was renamed The Louisiana Art & Folk Festival, Inc, with Mr. Cameron Minard serving as first president and Mrs. W. M. Causey serving as co-chair of the festival, along with Mrs. Reynolds.

The Festival has survived for more than 60 years because of the dedication and support of individual patrons and volunteers who continue their support. Your help ensures our continued success.

With each new year, we are striving to make the festival better. Thanks to the contributions and support of our patrons, we were able present the "Jennie Reynolds Scholarship" to Ariel Bailey in 2016. We are continuing to sponsor art contests for the elementary and Jr High schools in the parish. They also have a showing of their art each year at the Festival.