Organized and sponsored by the Life & Legacy Foundation, the magnificent exhibition, George Rodrigue: Painting for Myself is currently on view at the Bayou Teche Museum in Rodrigue’s hometown of New Iberia, Louisiana.
Curated by Dana Holland-Beickert of the Life & Legacy Foundation, this exceptional installation originated last year at the Museum of New Art in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and includes 40 rarely seen original paintings, most from George and Wendy’s private collection, including many from the walls of their home. Artworks range in date from 1970-2013, with a special focus on paintings from the last year of Rodrigue’s life.
It was 80 years ago, March 13, 1944, that George Rodrigue was born in a brick duplex built by his father on Main Street in New Iberia, just a few blocks from where we celebrated him on Wednesday, March 13, in grand style! Thank you to everyone who attended. It was wonderful to embrace old friends again, some of whom I hadn’t seen in years. And nothing could have been more special than to gather within the exhibition George Rodrigue: Painting for Myself, featuring 40 of George’s most personal and extraordinary artworks— particularly his powerful painted statements from the last year of his life.
Thank you to the hardworking volunteers, amazing chefs and cooking crews, the talented decorating committee, the auction donors, and especially the incredible Bayou Teche Museum’s board, committees, and staff, all organized and managed by Marcia Patout!
And thank you to the photographers, especially Lee Ball Photography.
Thank you to the community of New Iberia, Louisiana, for honoring George in this magnanimous, generous, and joyful way!
All proceeds from this hugely successful night benefit the Bayou Teche Museum.
George Rodrigue: Painting for Myself continues through May 20, 2024.
This celebratory week also included extensive education outreach with area schools, plus numerous tours for the public and community groups.
Engaging and inspiring children is truly at the heart of any Rodrigue Life & Legacy Tour. Even with the youngest ages, adults at the Bayou Teche Museum commented, repeatedly, “I can’t believe how quiet they are!” But real stories, told with personal intention, while surrounded by vibrant original George Rodrigue art does the trick every time. And yet, when let loose the kids go wild with excitement!
During George Rodrigue’s 80th birthday week, Wendy enjoyed visiting with multiple classes in New Iberia, Louisiana, including from his alma mater, Catholic High School, the Louisiana A+ School, Epiphany Day School, and two joyful days with Loreauville Elementary, all together ranging in grades from first through twelfth.
- March 11
Catholic High School
Kappas - March 12
Fortnightly Group
Epiphany Day School - March 13
Loreauville Elementary 2nd grade
EVENING GALA CELEBRATING GEORGE’S 80th BIRTHDAY - March 14
Red Hatters Group (am)
1:00 – 2:30: Free tour with Wendy Rodrigue with paid museum admission - March 15
Loreauville Elementary 1st grade