What About New Orleans?
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Nearly three years after Hurricane Katrina (the bitch) devastated New Orleans, our federal government has not seen fit to oversee a comprehensive reconstruction effort. This pisses me off. I am a French-American sculptor and mixed-media photographer living in Hollywood for the past 23 years. Out of frustration, feelings of helplessness, and many conversations grew the idea of focusing on the New Orleans arts community to somehow lend a hand. In November 2007 I traveled to New Orleans with the intention of creating mixed media photographic works to showcase the state of the city — good and bad. I also purchased discarded windows, doors, and other surfaces from buildings and homes to use as mountings and frames for the photographs. The first of these works can be seen in the video above. Once completed, the exhibit will comprise 20-25 pieces, some sculptures included. I am seeking appropriate venues to host this exhibition, which I hope can travel to as many cities as possible. 30% of proceeds from all sales (of these original works, and prints) will benefit New Orleans artists for replenishing lost materials and supplies, as well as musicians needing new instruments. The Green Project (www.thegreenproject.org), a non-profit organization located in New Orleans, has agreed to act as the distribution point for these materials. As a French native, I consider New Orleans to be a cultural treasure that is also a part of my own history. It is a unique city, which seems on the verge of disappearing from the consciousness of many Americans. The purpose of this exhibit is also an attempt at keeping awareness alive. There is still so much to be done… If you have any ideas for locales and/or referrals for individuals and organizations that could help fund or attach their names to this endeavor, I would greatly appreciate it.
Yours truly, |