BY: TARA MCLELLAN, PHOTOGRAPHED BY EUGENIA UHL

Local artists produce a creative renaissance for New Orleanians looking for artistic accessories with style, form, and function.

Like a shimmering, multicolored phoenix rising from the ashes, the arts scene in New Orleans is alive with spirited craftsmen and women producing one-of-a-kind creations that dazzle the eye and the spirit. From the Bywater Art Market to RHINO Contemporary Craft Company and the Center for Southern Craft and Design at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, local artists are cleaning out their studios, picking up their brushes, scissors, chisels and clay, and revitalizing the art soul of New Orleans. Investing in one of these unique creations not only adds beauty to the home, but also supports a community of dedicated artisans thriving in south Louisiana.

Design Dreams
Painting by Jessica Bizer; zinc crystal vases by Craig McMillin, Mudflap Pottery; “Missing New Orleans” by Richard Gruber, Jim Rapier and Mary Beth Romig; cedar shotgun house and double shotgun house by Robert Tannen.

EnterCartistically
Painting by Jessica Bizer; paper and wood lamp by Sarah Ashe; postcard ceramic tile by Jeanette Landphair; “Beignet Bag” by Kerry Fitts, Beulah by the Bayou; reclaimed antique wood box by David Bergeron.

Cooking Creativity
“Hubig Pie” and “Tee Eva” ceramic tiles by Jeanette Landphair; handmade ceramic tile by Mark Derby; fish plaque by Trish Ransom, Debris Art; gumbo nightlight by Heather Elizabeth; “Soraparu” metal bowl by David Borgerding; handmade ceramic tiles by Mark Derby; “Katrina Healing” doll by Lois Simbach; turtle plaques by Trish Ransom, Debris Art; wine bottle stoppers by Heather Elizabeth. •

Bywater Art Market
www.bywaterartmarket.com, Markey Park, Royal Street at Piety, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., third Saturday each month
 

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art www.ogdenmuseum.org, 925 Camp St., 539-9600
 

RHINO Contemporary Craft Company
The Shops at Canal Place, 333 Canal St., 523-7945