Contemporary Views of the Castlellated Capitol

Exhibition Overview

The unique architecture of Louisiana’s Old State Capitol inspires limitless possibilities for imaginative exploration. Almost as soon as it was built 175 years ago, the Capitol caught the attention of artists. Demonstrating the grand edifice’s enduring visual appeal, this exhibition showcases contemporary works in a variety of media made by twenty Louisiana artists. Each piece was inspired by an aspect of the historic building’s character and most are newly created.

The Old State Capitol, originally referred to as the ​“Statehouse,” was designed by architect William Dakin in the 1850s in a style he called ​“Castellated Gothic,” a reference to its castle-like battlements. Indeed, the building is often called the ​“Castle on the River” because it resembles a medieval fortress with crenellated parapets, colorful stained-glass windows, an imposing spiral staircase in the rotunda, and exterior cast-iron fencing. Full of surprises, the interior is adorned with decorative embellishments almost everywhere – fireplaces, light fixtures, and even the door handles are ornamented! While this gilded style is not pleasing to everyone — Mark Twain famously described the building in 1883 as ​“the ugliest thing on the Mississippi” – the historic building remains an exceptional architectural jewel and an emblem of our shared local and Louisiana identity.

Featured Artists

Sheldon Anderson — Jim Blanchard — Kathleen Carr Masy Chighizola — Leslie Elliottsmith — Malaika Favorite — Becky Fos — Philip Gould — Kevin Harris — David Carlysle Humphreys — Heather Ryan Kelley– Kelli Scott Kelley — Eddie Mormom — Lee Michaels — MIMOSA Handcrafted — Jacqueline Dee Parker - Mary Jane Parker — Katherine Scherer — Casey R. Stannard — Henry Watson

Guest Curator: Elizabeth C. Weinstein, Vernissage LLC