ART AND IDENTITY--AUDUBON AT OAKLEY, 1821

ART AND IDENTITY--AUDUBON AT OAKLEY, 1821
This will examine John James Audubon?s brief, but impactful sojourn at Oakley Plantation. Utilizing the Museum, Oakley House and nature trails we will briefly trace Audubon?s trajectory from his birth on a Caribbean sugar plantation, to his arrival in America and, eventually, West Feliciana. Though Audubon?s time at Oakley was brief, it was significant for upon leaving Oakley, Audubon would exchange his identity as a failed businessman for that of one of early America?s most luminous artists and celebrities. Audubon?s story tells us much about social and economic fluidity in Republic-era America, as well as the elasticity of personal identity during this period. Readings from his journal incorporated where appropriate.