March 13, Tulane University 4:00 p.m.
Marshall Family Commons, Goldring/Woldenberg Business Complex
Wendy Rodrigue Magnus was George Rodrigue’s partner in life and business for 23 years, and after his untimely death in 2013 she stepped into the role of steward, strategist, and storyteller for one of Louisiana’s most iconic artistic legacies. An art historian with a sharp eye for narrative, Wendy has built a second chapter that asks a bigger question many women face: how do you claim your own authority when the public only sees you through someone else’s spotlight?
Join Wendy in conversation with moderator Betsy Fischer Martin, Executive Director of American University’s Women & Politics Institute, for a candid discussion about partnership, identity, and the work of redefining leadership after loss. Together they will explore the ways women build influence behind the scenes, take the reins in moments of transition, and use story and creativity to shape what comes next.
As a powerful backdrop, Wendy will bring two original works from her private collection, shown publicly in New Orleans for the first time. Completed in the final months of Rodrigue’s life, his last self-portrait, a digital work on metal, and He Stopped Loving Her Today, a large-scale painting on canvas, reveal an artist in full command of his voice to the very end. Wendy will share what these pieces mean, what it takes to protect and present them, and how art can become a catalyst for resilience, purpose, and women’s empowerment.
Thank you to Neal Auction Company for their generous sponsorship of the installation of original Rodrigue artworks for this event.