Endymion Float - Mardi Gras Painting

     A couple of weeks ago my husband and I experienced Mardi Gras family style, in the New Orleans' neighborhood of Uptown.  This was not the raucous reveling on Bourbon Street, this was the tree-line residential streets lined with mothers, fathers, children, grandparents, aunts and uncles, all there to enjoy the beautiful floats, the jazzy marching bands and to take part in tradition.
     I must admit that I am not usually a fan of parades, but the floats were absolutely breathtaking!  They were illumined against a twilight sky by hundreds of lights and by kerosene torch bearers called the "flambeaux," a custom that goes back to the very beginnings of Mardi Gras.  Everyone in the crowd was there to see a child in a band or a relative on a float, and to catch trinkets and beads which flew through the air.....all very small town in feeling, all very friendly.  Total strangers gave me theirs fanciest beads because I was not very good at catching them myself. 
     It doesn't matter that many of the stories behind all the complicated and somewhat baffling traditions may have been forgotten, what matters is that this is a time when everyone joins together in a spirit of community.
     This painting, "Endymion," was commissioned last year by Scott Colomb, a member of the (Krewe of Endymion) who taught me more about about the culture of New Orleans.
To see more of my New Orleans art visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

    

Dream of New Orleans - Oil Painting

For some of us, we dream of New Orleans, when we are not there.  What is it about New Orleans which captures the hearts and imaginations of so many?  It is a city where we can walk among the ghosts of those earliest settlers who carved a unique culture out of an often treacherous swamp.  It is a place where despite the hardships of epidemics, fires, and floods, its people have endured and triumphed down through the centuries.  It is a modern urban center; but it is also a mystical, ethereal dream carried on a breeze, drifting out over the evening, casting a spell over those who are willing to believe.

To see more of my New Orleans art visit: www.neworleans-art.net

 

 

www.neworleans-art.net

New Orleans' Uptown Neighborhood

     New Orleans has many neighborhoods, Garden District, French Quarter, Marigny; but one of the most welcoming and inviting is "Uptown."  Here a diverse collection of architectural styles abound.  They are home to those New Orleans inhabitants who lovingly care for their late Victorian charmers.  Every pillar, bow window, and wrought iron railing is preserved.  Many sustained extensive damage during Katrina, but the owners worked hard and brought them back to their original Southern grace.

     These are homes to families, not the super rich who drop by occasionally.  If to spend a couple of delightful hours, take a stroll through this neighborhood some late Sunday afternoon.  You will be thoroughly entertained!

    This painting, "Uptown Tonight" was commissioned by the Ruth's Chris Steakhouse in Richmond Virginia.

     To see more of my New Orleans art, or to commission a painting, visit:  www.neworleans-art.net
     To purchase a print of this painting click on the image above.

Sunrise in the French Quarter

It's been about a month since our last trip to New Orleans, but I can still remember how beautiful the early morning is in the French Quarter.  I was standing on the balcony of our hotel on Chartres Street looking towards Esplanade Avenue, and the sun was just coming up.  All of a sudden the buildings at the end of the street took on an incredible glow.  There were soft pinks and yellows and wonderful shades of purples and lavenders.  It only lasted for a few minutes, but I grabbed my camera and got a few shots.  As soon as we got back to Illinois, I got out my paints and tried to get the scene down on canvas.  

I love all the excitement and glitter of New Orleans, but this quiet and tranquil scene of the old Vieux Carre' is one that I will always remember.  This fleeting moment in time was another facet of this complicated and truly alive city called New Orleans. 

This large original oil painting was recently sold at Kako Gallery on Royal Street in the French Quarter.

To see more of my New Orleans art visit: 

www.neworleans-art.net

Special orders welcomed!

City Park in New Orleans - Original Painting

The Live Oaks in New Orleans' City Park are a sight to behold!  Their large twisted branches, covered with Spanish Moss, spread out over the old Metairie Bayou, offering a deep and tranquil shade.  Many of these ancient oaks are over 600 years old.  They are called "live" because their branches are never bare; dropping leaves are replaced by new leaves almost at the same time.  To walk among these ancient giants is an awe inspiring experience!  To learn more about City Park visit:  http://neworleanscitypark.com/live_oaks.html

For more about my original art, visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

The Blue Nile - New Orleans

To spend time at the "Blue Nile" club on Frenchmen Street is to experience real New Orleans music!  Local musicians (who also enjoy worldwide fame) deliver the best in jazz, funk, blues, R&B and more.  In true New Orleans fashion, it is an interactive experience.  The crowd and the band party together in an intimate space which is loaded with atmosphere. 

A friend mentioned that the building was built in 1832, and the inside has the appearance of a 1930's jazz club with masonary arches and a delicate hand-painted border of marine life around the ceiling.   All this is left untouched; but more recently an artist has added a huge expressive mural which covers one whole wall.  It is these layers, built up over time, which make this place so interesting.

I painted this painting last summer after our Spring trip to New Orleans.  It was recently sold at the Kako Gallery in New Orleans, and is currently displayed on the Blue Nile's website. www.bluenilelive.com   While it is not a portrait of Sam Williams of "Big Sam's Funky Nation," who often appears at the Blue Nile; he was the inspiration for the trombone player.

A print of this painting is available at: http://www.artistrising.com/products/503897/the-blue-nile---new-orleans.htm

To see more of my New Orleans art, visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

Harry's Corner - Original Oil Painting

When you take an evening stroll down New Orleans' Chartres Street, you are instantly transported back to a time of flickering gas lanterns, doors shuttered for the night, and the sound of a carriage clattering down narrow streets. You walk past mysterious darkened carriage ways with enormous iron gates. You may hear water dripping from the lush vines which hang from the balconies overhead, or the hushed whispers of lovers as they hurry past you on the slate covered sidewalk. But, this is not a dream or a Hollywood sound stage. This is the year 2012 in the French Quarter, where people live and work amidst the layers of New Orleans' history. And, Harry's Corner Bar takes its place in this historic neighborhood. It is immersed in the hazy memories of the past which seem to seep from every old brick wall, from every heavy wooden door. Harry's is a vibrant neighborhood gathering place, but it is also a part of the intricate weaving of the fabric of the French Quarter; where the past and the present merge in perfect, beautiful harmony.

This large, original oil was commissioned by a patron in Louisiana.

To see more of my work or to order an original,

visit: www.neworleans-art.net

Homes of New Orleans

An expression of joy, a statement of individuality, these are the homes of New Orleans, which can be found in all the old neighborhoods. 

The humble 19th Century shotgun house, long and narrow, will often soar to spectacular design heights.  Some of these frame dwellings will run the gamut with elaborate Victorian mill work, stained glass windows, or 2nd story additions.  Usually, they will all be painted in a wide range of colors.  And, in the glorious New Orleans light, a street full of color is a beautiful sight to see.    

The early 20th Century bungalow style of home is not to be out-done!  They boast massive square or round porch columns.  (Columns are not just for mansions, you know.)  And, often their foundations are raised, some raised a whole story, with elaborate steps and ground floor entrances.  Bright Caribbean colors are often the choice, and stained glass windows can also be found.

The homes in neighborhoods like Bywater, Marigny and Treme reflect the personality of New Orleans, colorful, proud, and individualistic. 

This painting, entitled "Moon Over New Orleans" is for sale at Kako Gallery in the French Quarter.  For information on purchasing please contact me.  SOLD

For more about my New Orleans art visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

A New Orleans Courtyard

There is nothing like your first glimpse into a courtyard in the French Quarter.  It is quiet, secluded, and mysterious.  The street sounds disappear, and you are transported back into a time before the Civil War.  A time when the French Quarter, or Vieux Carre', was the center of New Orleans .... no tall hotels, concrete highways, or Superdome.  It was a time when prosperous Creole families (those families whose ancestors were the original settlers) lived in the rows of elegant townhouses which are preserved to this day.  Hidden from the street and behind these townhouses, were the courtyards which were much different then.  These were the places where tall cisterns caught the rain water, chickens were raised and butchered, soap was made, and laundry was washed and hung up to dry.  Today they are filled with fountains, beautiful flowers, and tropical plants; but if you are quiet and listen, you can almost hear those ghosts of the past.  SOLD
To see more of my art, visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

Bourbon Street Dazzle Art by Diane Millsap

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One can't deny the energy, light and sound of Bourbon Street!  It is just one of the many faces of New Orleans.  It's where you go on your very first trip to the Big Easy, to experience the enthusiasm and joy of living for which New Orleans is renowned.

Bourbon Street is a street of contrasts.  Centuries old buildings with iron balconies and brightly painted shutters glow in a jumble of bright neon signs.  Open old wooden doors emit the sounds of not only Jazz, but Rock, Funk and R&B music. 

Bourbon Street is where you want to be when you when you want to celebrate the exuberance of life.  There is laughter, camaraderie, and just a hint of real danger lurking around the edges in the shadows, so be a little bit wary; it's  a little bit like the real world distilled and condensed into 12 city blocks.  

This original oil painting was commissioned by Ruth's Chris Steakhouse in Arlington Virginia.  It is available as a giclee print from Art.com.

To see more of New Orleans art, visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

Fat Tuesday, the New Orleans cat, is Dancing on YouTube

Just out at Amazon.com: My illustrations for a new book ~~
Fat Tuesday,  is a fun loving, dumpster-dining, plump lady cat who lives in the French Quarter. 

She loves to dance, but she is searching for more in life.....

Story by Todd-Michael St. Pierre

Illustrations by Diane Millsap 

To see this book on Amazon.com, go to:  http://tinyurl.com/c79e3d6

To view more of my New Orleans art, visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

Napoleon House in New Orleans

     Napoleon House has been owned by the same New Orleans family since the early 1900's, and they have done an excellent job of maintaining all the original architectural details and the aged ambiance of this elegant building.  History and myth emanate from every scar in the old stucco facade and from behind every faded shuttered window.  Inside, the mellow brick and arched alcoves of the cafe transport us back in time. 

Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this building was originally the home of Nicholas Girod who was mayor of New Orleans from 1812 to 1815.  Because New Orleans was very French in culture and history, Mr. Girod offered his home as a refuge to Napoleon Bonaparte, who was facing exile from France after a series of military defeats. Bonaparte never took the offer, but the house soon began to be referred to as "Napoleon House."

Today, one can sit in the Napoleon House bar and enjoy the famous "Pims Cup" drink or have a delicious bowl of Gumbo and reflect on the lives and legends of New Orleans. 

This original oil painting, which measures 7 feet high, was painted for a patron who loves the mystery and lore of the French Quarter.  SOLD

To see more of my New Orleans Art, please visit  www.neworleans-art.net

Downpour on Bourbon Street by Diane Millsap

We just returned from a hot and sultry trip to New Orleans, complete with afternoon thunderstorms!  If the weather was hot the jazz was even hotter, because "Satchmo Summerfest" was going on in the Quarter.  When my husband and I got caught in a downpour on Bourbon Street, I was amazed to find out that the colors were more vibrant and brilliant than ever!
                                                              Original Oil Painting
                                                Painted on 1" deep Gallery Wrapped Canvas
                                                             36" Wide x 24" High.
                                                       
For more details visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

Going Back to New Orleans

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                 "Blues on Bourbon Street,"  Oil on Canvas by Diane Millsap               

It's been a few months, and now it's time to return to that city of merriment, history and soul! Tops on our list this time is the Satchmo Summerfest which is all about Louis Armstrong and New Orleans Jazz.  New Orleans Brass Bands will be featured. They have a sound that is a mix of jazz and funk that is unique.  The beat and the fun are infectious, and you can't sit still!!  There will be music all day at the Old Mint along with some serious sessions on the history of  Jazz.  At night the clubs on Frenchmen Street (just a few blocks outside the Quarter) will be rocking with famous musicians like Kermit Ruffins and Shamarr Allen.

I have promised friends that we will also take the ferry to Algiers Point to photograph its beautiful homes, eat breakfast at the Satsuma Cafe, go to Fulton Street and watch try-outs for the 610 Stompers,
eat supper at The Three Muses in Marigny, catch the 2nd Line from the Baptist Church in Treme, and above all stay cool in the August heat! 

To see more of my New Orleans art visit:  www.neworleans-art.net

Stay tuned for my report when I return.  It will be a wonderful trip I'm sure.

In the Garden District - Original Oil Painting

The homes in New Orleans' Garden District are a feast for the eyes! Their beautiful architectural details belie how functional all the lovely details are.

The tall graceful windows catch any available breezes; but their colorful shutters are ready to shut out the hot mid-day sun or, God forbid, a hurricane!

The lacy iron balconies are not only delicate and fanciful, but strong, and resistant to mildew and rot in a humid environment. They do require some lovely, subtle shade of paint now and then, but the gentle hints of rust only add to their charm.

These homes are a tribute to the architects and the skilled craftsmen who built them. They are also a tribute to the owners who have lovingly cared for them through the years.

To purchase this painting please visit my website at:

www.neworleans-art.net

Panoramic View - Jackson Square

When I was asked to paint a series of paintings depicting Jackson Square, I jumped at the chance! This was an opportunity to create an overall impression of one of my favorite places in New Orleans.

Jackson Square is a living, breathing snapshot of New Orleans' 400 year old history. The buildings which enclose the square on three sides were built in different centuries. They encompass a variety of architectural styles, yet they blend together in perfect harmony. The effect is both monumental and, at the same time, friendly and familiar - like a grandmother's attic filled with valuable antiques and family mementos.

There is no better place to be on an early evening than Jackson Square, drinking coffee with friends at the Cafe Du Monde, strolling through the grounds behind the beautiful iron gates; or simply sitting on a bench feeling the breeze off the river, listening to a family's laughter or the far away tones of a mellow saxophone.

To see more of my art visit: www.neworleans-art.net

To purchase a print of this painting: www.diane-millsap.artistwebsites.com

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Jazz in the Streets of New Orleans

The time for "Jazz Fest - 2011" draws near, when the people of New Orleans and their kindred spirits from around the globe gather to celebrate music of all kinds: jazz, blues, R&B, Cajun, zydeco, rock, funk, African, Caribbean, and gospel.

There is, of course, the huge festival at the Fair Grounds, April 29 through May 8. But this rockin' gumbo of music will also spill out into clubs across the city. Places like Tipitina's, Howlin' Wolf, Rock "N" Bowl, and the clubs on Frenchmen Street will also have power-packed line-ups of terrific bands every night during the Fest.

It is by no accident that this outpouring of soul and celebration would occur in New Orleans, because this city is the birthplace of our American brand of music. For a history of Jazz Fest visit: http://www.nojazzfest.com/info/history.php

My painting "Jazz in the Street," is a dedication to the musicians of New Orleans who play with such life affirming feeling and soul. This painting has been donated to the Threadheads' Jazz Fest Charity Raffle. For information about this international nonprofit organization visit: http://s323426113.e-shop.info/

To see more of my New Orleans art visit: www.neworleans-art.net

Second Line in Treme - Art by Diane Millsap

A Second Line parade on a Sunday afternoon in New Orleans is an expression of the joy of living. Brass bands keep the funky beat and men in snappy suits step in time down a neighborhood street. Neighbors and friends, and sometimes tourists like me, all join in. It's an old custom that started over a century ago with the jazz funerals, but now these parades can occur just about anytime, and they are just plain unadulterated fun!

This original oil painting is part of a series of paintings which I recently completed for Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans. I tried to capture the motion and the exuberance of this unique custom.

To see more of my work, please visit:
www.neworleans-art.net

or drop by Kako Gallery on royal Street in the French Quarter. http://www.kakogallery.com/ where some of my paintings are displayed with some fantastic work done by local New Orleans artists.

The Cafe Du Monde

This year New Orleans' famous coffee stand, Cafe Du Monde, will feature my painting on their 2011 Catalog. This was very exciting for me, since I love this place! It's just another example of how New Orleans takes a basic idea and does it to perfection.



The Cafe, located next to the French Quarter's Jackson is a constant. The coffee, freshly brewed is always on, and the beignets are always hot and smothered in powdered sugar. They are always open. They offered exhausted French Quarter residents and tireless reporters a brief respite from the nightmare of Katrina.



Today, New Orleans is coming back, better than ever; and there is no better place to sit and soak up the atmosphere of a sunny (or rainy) day in the beautiful French Quarter. Watch the crowds, hear the music, smell the seafood, and sip that coffee!
http://www.cafedumonde.com/main.html


To see more of my New Orleans Art, visit: www.neworleans-art.net

"Twilight in New Orleans," A Romantic Remembrance

Twilight in New Orleans Painting by Diane Millsap - Twilight in New Orleans Fine Art Prints and Posters for Sale: "No other place has that mysterious glow like the French Quarter in New Orleans. The deep, rich jewel tones in this original oil painting capture the beauty that can be found at night on old Royal Street."

This commissioned piece was done for a customer and his bride of 10 years. They met and fell in love in the magical French Quarter, a place where the past and present are one, and romance is a truth that lasts a lifetime. All the best to this couple!

To see more of my New Orleans art, or to commission a New Orleans painting, please visit www.neworleans-art.net