Editor’s Note: A Look at Louisiana Creators

Louisiana is a state filled with artists, musicians, storytellers, and just about any other creative you can imagine. The music alone that has come out of our state is legendary. Mahalia Jackson, Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, Dr. John, Lucinda Williams, Buckwheat Zydeco, Zachary Richard — there’s far too many to list. From zydeco to blues, jazz and bounce, the music puts Louisiana on the cultural map. The same goes for artists and writers. Because we are known for our culture and arts, we’ve decided to do our Trailblazers feature a little different this year. Here, we highlight people who are trailblazing in creative ways. We are celebrating makers and their crafts.

From hatmakers to paper makers and more, our Acadiana Profile writers give a glimpse into the craft and work coming out of Louisiana these days. Also in this issue, Erin Z. Bass explores the art of lifelong Louisiana resident, Francis Pavy, who passed away last year. Pavy worked in glass and paint, and his vibrant work focused on all things Louisiana, especially nature.

In our feature, Kevin Rabalais offers a compelling look into hoop net fishing, an interesting part of Louisiana culture. While not at first glance an art, there is an artistry to fishing, in the setting of the nets and the instinct that goes along with the task.

One of my favorite things to do is wander along the Warehouse District in New Orleans and check out the many art galleries there or do the same in the French Quarter, but listen to music. You can find a piece of Louisiana culture most places you go.

We enjoy so many of the riches Louisiana has to offer, and whenever visitors come here, I am sure to let them know about the music, art and food. For me, those are some of the best things about living here — the things that, when times are tough, make up for that.