New Orleans' expansive art world is often forgotten in mainstream perspectives on the city which is an unfortunate oversight considering the number of art museums and talented artists that reside here. If you want to dive into this creative side of New Orleans, check out these stand-out art activities around the Crescent City.
10 Places to Experience Art in NOLA
1. New Orleans Museum of Art & Sculpture Garden
One Collins C. Diboll Circle, (504) 658-4100
noma.org
The New Orleans Museum of Art is the city's oldest fine arts institution and has become a staple of the art scene in New Orleans. With almost 50,000 pieces of artwork on permanent display, including some from Degas, Picasso, and Warhol, this museum is a can't miss for art buffs.
Located on the grounds of the museum is a free-to-enter Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Over 90 sculptures are placed throughout the 12 acres, representing sculptures across time and mediums.
2. Ogden Museum of Southern Art
925 Camp St., (504) 539-9650
ogdenmuseum.org
The Ogden holds the most comprehensive and largest collection of Southern art with over 4,000 pieces representing artists from and art depicting 15 southern states including Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana.
Along with their permanent collection, the Ogden hosts temporary and specially-themed exhibits curated from their existing collection. Events for all ages are held at the Ogden so check their calendar frequently.
3. StudioBE
2941 Royal St., (504) 252-0463
studiobenola.com
Far from a traditional art gallery, StudioBE is housed in a 30,000-square-foot warehouse and was founded by Brandan "BMike" Odums as a way to display his mural art. His work depicts images and sentiments inspired by Black culture and history.
StudioBE has evolved from a solo gallery, now incorporating art created by young and emerging artists involved in the associated nonprofit, Eternal Seeds. Visitors can explore the gallery on a self-guided tour or book a guided tour that includes the history of Odums' art and the influence of the people in his art.
4. Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans
900 Camp St., (504) 528-3800
cacno.org
Into contemporary and mixed media art? Check out the Contemporary Arts Center's ever-changing exhibits, lectures, musical performances, and documentary showings.
Unlike other museums, the Contemporary Arts Center does not have a permanent collection and cycles through exhibits of varying concentrations. Visitors can find current and upcoming exhibits on their website or go in blind and find something new.
5. New Orleans African American Museum
1417 Governor Nicholls St., (504) 218-8254
noaam.org
The New Orleans African American Museum is a place for history and art to intersect and overlap. Opened in Tremé in 1996, the New Orleans African American Museum aims to preserve the history and highlight the art of African Americans in New Orleans.
Photography, art of every kind, movies, music, and books all by Black artists are on display at the NOAAM. Anyone with an interest in history should check out this museum to see it through a new creative lens.
6. New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts
5256 Magazine St., (504) 899-8111
noafa.org
If all this talk about museums has inspired you, think about taking some classes at the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts. Don't let the words "Academy" and "Fine Arts" intimidate you, anyone can enroll in their classes and many are taught with beginners in mind.
The New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts has a talented staff of teachers who are dedicated to their craft. Whether you're looking to improve your watercolor skills or learn to create your own pottery, NOAFA has classes for all skill levels, ages, and interests.
7. Paint and Jrink
622 Elysian Fields Ave., (504) 533-8865
pandjnola.com
For a New Orleans take on the popular BYOB painting studios, Paint and Jrink offers open sessions and private parties with pre-sketched canvases, a painting instructor, and all the paint materials you'll need. Private parties can also request blank canvases if they want to freestyle their art.
If you're looking for a fun activity to do at home, Paint and Jrink also sells paint-at-home kits that can be delivered right to your doorstep. These kits include a pre-sketched canvas with the design of your choice, instructions, brushes and paint, an apron, and even a disposable easel.
8. Shard Shop NOLA
3950 Magazine St., (504) 571-5342
nola.shardshop.com
The Shard Shop fills a very hands-on and one-of-a-kind niche that may be right up your alley. People can participate in their daily classes that provide a pre-painted canvas, up-cycled glass, tools, and close instruction to ensure safety and enjoyment. The Shard Shop also offers private parties for your next birthday, family get-together, or bridal shower.
If you like the look but don't want to create it yourself, The Shard Shop also sells shard art made by their own team of artists.
9. Byrdie's Pottery
936 St. Roch Ave.
byrdiespottery.org
Byrdie's is a community ceramics studio that offers classes and a storefront with clay art made by its members. Dining ware, jewelry, vases, magnets, and more are all available for purchase.
Classes at Byrdie's can be multiweek or single sessions, all with the aim of being accessible and accepting to everyone. Private classes of up to eight people can be booked for a unique bonding experience.
10. Pollack Glass Studio & Gallery
4132 Magazine St., (504) 875-3627
pollackglassnola.com
Whether you're interested in viewing glass pieces created by local artists or want to try making your own, Pollack Glass Studio & Gallery is an approachable atelier with a gallery, shop, and studio in-house. Owner Andrew Pollack curates the gallery and frequently adds new works, some even being made in the studio.
The classes offered at Pollack Glass range from beginner foundational classes to more complex instruction classes and advanced technique classes. Those interested can create beads, marbles, pendants, and eventually take classes on blowing and sculpting glass.
Getting Cultured in NOLA
Along with these activities, there are also countless artist-owned galleries across New Orleans where art enthusiasts can buy paintings made by local artists.
If you want to take a casual stroll through a sculpture garden, discover new local artists, or get your hands dirty making your own art, New Orleans has so much to offer every kind of art lover.
