Right on time for its annual Talented Art Student Exhibition opening on Jan. 16, the West Baton Rouge Museum has reserved Jan. 14 for “Portraits and Pastels: An Evening Art Workshop” from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The event will feature refreshments, relaxation and a lesson in painterly portrait drawings.

Under the guidance of local professional artist and teacher Jenn Prochaska, guests will glean practical knowledge of pastel technique, whether they choose to create self-portraits, portraits drawn from photographs, or even portraits from live models dressed in 19th-century attire. Those attending need only bring their imagination; the event is free and all materials will be provided. Seating is limited, though, so be sure to call ahead of time to reserve your spot.

This workshop also coincides with the museum’s current exhibit, The Portrait, The Artist, and the Patron: 19th Century Louisiana Portraiture, which closes on Jan. 17. The exhibit features masterworks on loan from the Historic New Orleans Collection, the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, the Louisiana State Museum and private collections, and showcases the work of historical artists including Thomas Sully, Matthew Harris Jouett, Louis Antoine Collas, Jean Joseph Vaudechamp, Jacques Amans, Adolph Rink, Jules Lion, George Harrison Hite and George Peter Alexander Healy.

For more information, visit westbatonrougemuseum.com. To buy tickets for “Portraits and Pastels,” call 225-336-2422, ext. 15.