About the Barnwell

Dedicated to the advancement of cultural activities in the city, R.S. Barnwell Memorial Garden & Art Center is situated along the banks of the smooth-flowing Red River. The combination art and horticulture facility was the first of its kind in the Southeast. Visitors to the center will find continuous displays in both fields as well as periodic special exhibits.

The spacious structure is named for the late R.S. "Cap" Barnwell, Sr., Northwest Louisiana oil pioneer. The Barnwell family contributed half of the construction cost of the cultural center, which is owned and operated by the City of Shreveport.

Flowers and art displays are exhibited by local clubs for the enjoyment of residents and visitors. Art workshops are conducted in the facility's north wing. The center's main structure provides space for garden activities and houses, meeting rooms for club functions. A large exhibit room easily handles large art shows, while the meeting rooms can be combined to serve as a display area for smaller art exhibitions. The 166-foot gallery corridor extends across the rear of the center, affording a panoramic view of the river. At the south end is a 7,850 square-foot domed botanical conservatory dominated by tropical plants. Seasonal and native plantings are also featured. At any time of the year you can find something "blooming at the Barnwell".