Works in Progress
Mention New Orleans and most people’s first thought is Mardi Gras, a carnival celebrating diverse cultures that incorporates elements of terror as well as comedy. It brings to mind images of young women on Bourbon Street balconies, baring their breasts in exchange for beads while the parade, with its bands, organizers, and elaborate floats and costumes passes by. Following the big parade you’ll find the Second Line social clubs, as well as anyone wanting to join the parade and strut their stuff along with the clubs.
Social Clubs aren’t just for Mardi Gras. Originally part of funeral processions, they also participate in weddings, anniversaries, or weekly Sunday parades; any occasion that they think should be celebrated. A party can happen and will happen any time of the year in New Orleans.
“Second Liners Krew” grew out of multiple trips to New Orleans and my long association with music and theatre. As a kid, I took accordion lessons in hope of participating in Philly’s Mummers Parade. After hours of practice, my dream was cut short (yay!) when I broke my arm during Judo lessons and parted ways with my music lessons. However, I continued to attend parades, circuses and theatre, leading to my paintings, “The Mummers,” “Backstage, Les Mis,” 0“Pirates’ Tarantella,” and now “Second Liners Krew.” To capture the spirit of this Social Club as it entertains the bystanders and joiners with music and dance, I used bright colors accented with dark lines, areas with no definite shape, and areas of heavily applied paint to show the movement through rapid brushstroke.
I hope it makes you feel like dancing and throwing beads. But if not remember the B’s of New Orleans: Balconies, Beads,Booze and Bourbon Street.
