New Orleans Art by Diane Millsap

Harry's Corner - Original Oil Painting

2012-01-28T08:14:00.000-08:00

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

2012-01-18T07:35:00.000-08:00

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.

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

A New Orleans Courtyard

2012-01-02T10:59:00.000-08:00

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

2011-12-13T09:01:00.000-08:00

SOLD

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

2011-11-14T12:22:00.000-08:00

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

2011-10-13T07:25:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-03T20:55:00.000-07:00

SOLD

"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

2011-07-06T21:36:00.001-07:00

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

2011-05-21T05:24:00.001-07:00

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

Jazz in the Streets of New Orleans

2011-03-30T04:49:00.001-07:00

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

2011-03-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

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

2010-12-30T06:41:00.000-08:00

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

2010-12-14T19:21:00.000-08:00

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

New Orleans' Oyster Bars - After Oil in the Gulf

2010-10-22T05:49:00.000-07:00

Felix's, the well known oyster bar in the French Quarter, serves its guests like nothing has happened. With true New Orleans grit, the waitresses and oyster shuckers put on a welcoming smile; even though they may be worried about the future of the Gulf seafood industry and the stability of their jobs.

This brave attitude against adversity has always been New Orleans strength throughout a history of fires, hurricanes, and epidemics. But, it may unfortunately hide real problems which we visitors need to be mindful of. Those of us who love New Orleans and go there often want this remarkable city to thrive and prosper.

On our last visit, my husband and I ate oysters and shrimp, but we were told they were not from the Louisiana fishing beds. The media has given us the impression that all is well now, but apparently, the local fishermen are still struggling. We need to remember this and follow their stories, even if the national media has dropped the ball. We need to be vigilant caretakers of our environment, not only in Louisiana, but in our own neighborhoods as well.
"Felix's Oyster Bar" - painted for a couple who remember it fondly as the the the place where they became engaged.
To see more of my New Orleans art visit: www.neworleans-art.net

On a Walking Tour through the French Quarter

2010-08-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

When we signed up for the " French Quarter Walking Tour" at the "1850 House Museum Store" on Jackson Square, we had no idea what a great experience it would be! Our guide was a lovely woman whose family has been in New Orleans for hundreds of years. For only $15.00 each, she gave our small little group two hours of New Orleans history which was extremely entertaining.

Her stories took us down through the centuries; from the earliest inhabitants, through the fires, the military battles, the epidemics, and the triumphs. As we explored each beautiful old block in the Quarter, we all came to believe that this city of merchants, free African Americans, religious figures, politicians, and above all families, was a city whose destiny would not be denied.

This painting, "Misty Morning on Chartres Street," was inspired by this tour. To see more of my New Orleans art visit:
www.neworleans-art.net

Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans- Painting

2010-07-17T07:20:00.001-07:00

Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans is distinctive in many ways. There are hundreds of beautiful homes situated right next to each other with only a narrow walkway separating them.

Each house has it's own style: some with wrought iron balconies, some with pillars, some with generous front porches others with covered arched doorways. This should be an architectural nightmare, but in New Orleans it all works! Somehow, the perfectly proportioned design of one house compliments the style of its neighbor.

This cramped collection of buildings could be found in any old section of any city, but here's the New Orleans touch: Add beautiful tall palm trees growing right out of the narrow sidewalk, and then add the charm of the live oak branches reaching out from the boulevard, and you have Unique New Orleans!

"Palms on Esplanade" Original Oil Painting for Sale: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180534150886&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT

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

French Quarter Architecture

2010-07-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

I read this somewhere, "The architecture of the French Quarter is Spanish, but the culture is French."

You can see that Spanish influence in the somewhat plain, thick-walled stucco buildings with their balconies to ward off the sun and the heat.

Then you add the French touches of the pitched roofs with deep dormers and the perfectly proportioned wooden millwork around the windows and doors......and Voila! It all works! It's unmistable and uniquely New Orleans!

To see more or my New Orleans art visit: www.neworleans-art.net
To buy this print go to: Fine Art America

Maison Bourbon in New Orleans

2010-07-09T08:07:00.000-07:00

A favorite of ours when we're in the French Quarter is the Maison Bourbon jazz club on Bourbon Street. It's a great place to hear classic jazz, usually performed by that consummate trumpet player Jamil Sharif. Always a gentleman, Mr. Sharif turns in a perfect, totally professional performance. And he is always surrounded by some of New Orleans best musicians on piano, sax, and drums.

So I suggest you walk right in to this dark atmospheric club, order an Irish Coffee and experience jazz at its traditional, golden age best!

To order my print inspired by this great jazz club go to Art.com: http://www.art.com/products/p13178469-sa-i2325425/diane-millsap-new-orleans-jazz.htm?sorig=cat&sorigid=6895&dimvals=6895&ui=55e77a2684c448d1ae6d75722a3cc74e

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

New Orleans Treme Musicians

2010-06-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

More and more, I have become engrossed in the music of Louisiana, blues, jazz, Cajun, Zydeco, funk...... I find that I want to incorporate that interest into my scenes of New Orleans. After experiencing the unique 2nd line Brass Bands at this year's French Quarter Fest, and after faithfully watching the HBO series, "Treme," I came up with this painting. It's entitled "Musicians of Treme."

Treme is a virtual breeding ground for New Orleans jazz. Instruments and skills are passed on from one generation to another. Playing gigs is not just work, it's a way of life. It's done for the love of the music, not just a paycheck. It's so inspirational, so natural...just to play music because that's part of who you are!

See more of my New Orleans art at my Website: www.neworleans-art.net

Buy my prints at Fine Art America

Signs of Bourbon Street

2010-03-30T03:42:00.000-07:00

This oil painting was inspired by my love of New Orleans music.

The purists say that the clubs on Bourbon Street are not as good as they used to be, but if you want to here Live music in any genre, you can't beat today's Bourbon Street!

The Blues Club has classic (and I mean CLASSIC) R&B from the 60's which is just as popular now as it was then. Krazy Korner has always got some hard rocking band that will get you dancing in a minute. The Old Opera House has got that Cajun and Zydeco thing goin' on (love that!) The Maison Bourbon or Fritzel's are terrific places to have a seat and hear classic jazz performed by some of New Orleans best musicians. And, if you want to be a part of the live music, go to Cats and karaoke!

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

or to purchase this painting go to:

www.dianemillsap.com

New Orleans Architecture

2010-01-20T04:19:00.000-08:00

This series of paintings was created for a New Orleans resident who gave me free reign to paint whatever I wanted (every artist's dream of a customer)!

I just tried to match the paintings to her vibrant and colorful personality.

To see more of my work visit my website at:

www.neworleans-art.net

Early Morning on Ursulines Street

2009-11-23T04:17:00.000-08:00

I just finished this painting of one of the most unique buildings in the French Quarter. It's not a particularly large building, but it has the largest 2nd story dormers I have ever seen in the Quarter! (A lot of you will recognize this place.)

It's really a testament to how solidly these old stucco structures were built, because, year after year (century after century) the weight of these twin dormers have not caused the roof to sag.

And, how they must have enhanced daily living in the 2nd floor apartment! With those large arched shutters open wide, light could stream in, not to mention the wonderful cross ventilation. The builders of these New Orleans homes and shops thought of every thing.

It's fun for me to imagine how beautiful it would be to live in this apartment, with the with early morning rays of sunlight dancing across the floor, and the sounds of a city waking up drifting in on the breeze.

To see more of my New Orleans art, please visit: www.neworleans-art.net
or visit the Kako Gallery on Royal Street in the French Quarter where some of my originals are available: www.kakogallery.com

Bourbon Street Rock

2009-11-08T12:42:00.000-08:00

Having just returned from another trip to New Orleans, my first painting was yet another version of one of my favorite buildings on Bourbon street, The Old Opera House. We spent quite a few hours there with friends dancing to the infectious beat of a great Cajun band, the Bonoffs.

Aside from the great music, this great old building, a Creole Cottage example of architecture, is just amazing! After 200 plus years, it seems as solid as the day it was built. It is drenched in atmosphere, as if all the old beams, bricks and plaster hold all the memories and events of the old New Orleans. I have found that I am not alone in having the experience of being almost overwhelmed by this mysterious sense of history. Many of my customers say they also feel an unexplainable emotional reaction to the buildings in the French Quarter.

This painting is currently for sale on my website: www.neworleans-art.net
To see more of my paintings in New Orleans, visit Kako Gallery on Royal Street: www.kakogallery.com

Pat O'Brien's in New Orleans

2009-10-13T06:08:00.000-07:00

What is it about Pat O'Brien's Bar that makes it a favorite with tourists? Is it the famous Hurricane drink, the fire pit fountain, the piano bar (where I last requested the very lengthy MacArthur's Park!), the reasonably price food, or the very professional staff? I could go on and on.........

I guess you could say that Pat O'Brien's is world famous for all theses reasons. Just like the city of New Orleans, it is a constant, always there, always charming, and always glad to see you and ask "How Y'all doin?"

This original oil painting and others are available at Kako Gallery on Royal Street in the heart of the French Quarter: www.kakogallery.com

And, please visit my website at:

neworleans-art.net

Mardi Gras Images, a Montage in Oil

2009-09-05T07:49:00.000-07:00

Recently, I have been painting some wide panoramic scenes of New Orleans. This painting was done for a Nola resident and combines his favorite Mardi Gras impressions into one view. St. Louis Cathedral, a Krewe of Zulu float, French Quarter balconies, Second Line dancers, and a brass band all flow together to create this 6 Foot wide piece.

My favorite image in this painting is the "Flambeau," or torch, carrier. It is a Mardi Gras tradition that I was unfamiliar with, until I did this painting.

I welcome these types of commissions because it gives me a chance to get to know the customers as we work together on creating pieces that have meaning for them.

To see more of my work, or to commission an original please visit my website at:
www.neworleans-art.net

Harry's Corner in New Orleans

2009-08-05T06:30:00.000-07:00

Harry's Corner bar in the French Quarter seems to be jumping any hour of the day. We usually pass by in a hurry on our way to our favorite boutique hotel just a few blocks down Chartres Street. Just glancing in the open doors as we pass, I can hear a riot of laughter and music. One night we ran into the Krewe of Cosmic Debris who were assembling at Harry's Corner for an impromptu parade. Obviously they felt that this place was the perfect spot to begin their festivities! So my husband and I decided that on our next visit to NOLA that we would definitely drop in and experience this noisy spot on and otherwise quiet corner.

This original oil and more of my New Orleans art can be seen at:

www.neworleans-art.net

Painting of New Orleans - "St. Peter Street Jive"

2009-07-27T05:05:00.000-07:00

I just finished this oil painting last week. It will be going to New Orleans fan who lives in California. I've found out that there are many people just like me who feel like they are in exile when they are away from New Orleans, even if it is not their home town.

For people who love art, music, architecture, and good food, Nawlins is a natural "center." It's a place that beckons to us and draws us back when we start to forget the sight of those lovely old buildings in the Quarter or the sounds of of a great jazz trio on Frenchmen Street.

St. Peter Street is probably one of my favorites. The jumble of buildings, all strikingly different and all leaning just a little, helps to create that unique Big Easy atmosphere. The Big Easy is that place we miss where the past and the present and the sights and sounds all melt into one big delicious gumbo.

For more about my new Orleans Art check out my website at www.neworleans-art.net

"Chartres Street" - Oil painting by Diane Millsap

2009-07-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

I just recently finished this large 5 ft. tall painting for a New Orleans resident. While I was working on it, I couldn't help reflect on what a showcase the French Quarter is for artistic expression. There is such a wide variety of architectural styles crammed into every street, every block! Every building is so unique! Different shutter styles, arched doorways next to very plain shuttered doors. And the iron balconies! No two are alike.

I think it is all this detail which draws us to these magical streets. The labor of the architects and artisans who built these houses and shops lives on for us to enjoy. It is amazing to think that these buildings were constructed just for everyday use as shops, apartments, and homes. What a far cry from the big box stores and strip malls we have to look at today!!!

Check our more of my New Orleans art at:
www.neworleansart.net

New Orleans Streetcar by Night - painting by Diane Millsap

2009-06-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

Ah, the streetcars of New Orleans, they are a good thing! Back in service since Katrina, you can't find a cheaper, more dependable, more authentic way to get around in the evening!

We stay in the French Quarter, so we can walk a few blocks, wait a few minutes, and the street car comes clattering along, stopping just near the Cafe du Monde. Even if it's hot night, the breeze rushes in through all the open windows. Soon you are crossing Canal Street with all it's hustle and bustle. You feel like you can reach right out and shake hands with people on the street, it's that close! (But please, don't stick your arms out the window!)

You can take a streetcar to shop on the Riverwalk, take in a show at Harrah's Casino, or board an evening paddle boat cruise. And it will get to close to Mulattes' Restaurant for some Cajun cooking and dancing. It will also save you some steps if you're going to an art event on Julia Street in the Art District. Just remember to bring cab fair with you. The cars don't run after 10 PM!

To see more of my original New Orleans oil paintings visit:

www.neworleans-art.net

Shotgun Houses of New Orleans

2009-05-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

Almost everyone is familiar with the iron balconies of the French Quarter, but the unique and fascinating architecture of New Orleans doesn't stop there. The long narrow "Shotgun House" appears all over the city. And while it was built (starting in the Victorian era) for the working classes, great attention was paid to detail. Elaborate mill work (gingerbread), multicolored color schemes, and decorative shutters are the rule, with every house being different from it's neighbor.

The narrow fronts of these houses belie the roominess inside. With no wasted space, a long progression of rooms, from the front of the building to the back, are connected by a narrow side hall. Often these rooms with high ceilings sport lovely woodwork and fireplace surrounds.

Many of these wonderful homes are being saved, but many have been torn down indiscriminately by the city government since Katrina. Concerned New Orleans citizens in such neighborhoods as Bywater, Mid City, and Marigny are fighting for the chance to save their homes. These are the places where New Orleans' musicians, artists, and small business owners live.

To see more of my New Orleans art visit my website at:

www.neworleans-art.net

French Quarter Rain - Origianl Oil Painting

2009-05-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

Looking down Royal Street just after a rain is a joyful experience for the senses! It is undoubtedly the most beautiful street in the French Quarter. The wrought iron balconies, the flags, the flowers and vines, and the reflections on the narrow sidewalks create a lush and inviting image.

It would be impossible, of course, to paint all these wonderful details, but I have tried to capture that gentle, time-worn soft beauty that this street is so famous for.

To purchase this 48"x 24" diptych (painted on two canvases), or to see more of my work, go to:

www.neworleans-art.net

It's Jazz Fest time in New Orleans

2009-04-28T04:06:00.001-07:00

"Jazz Man" - Original Oil, 36" x 24"

While we couldn't make it to Jazz Fest in New Orleans this year, my husband and I got to experience it last year. So this year I have to live it vicariously through snippets on CNN and through wonderful pictures taken by some great photographers on "Flickr." (Go to Flickr and check them out by searching Jazz Fest!)

In this painting I tried to capture the soul and energy that is poured into a performance. These are triumphant moments for these musicians who have spent many long years on the road perfecting their craft. Only in New Orleans, can you see and hear the best jazz, rock, blues, zydeco, and Cajun musicians in the world, all gathered in one spot.

To see more of my New Orleans paintings, please visit my website at

www.neworleans-art.net

A giclee print of this painting is available on-line from Art.com http://www.art.com/products/p13178667-sa-i2325707/diane-millsap-jazz-man.htm?sorig=cat&sorigid=0&dimvals=0&ui=4440b4a509a94fe58791f9bf75eecb13

Streetcar in New Orleans - Original Oil Painting

2009-04-04T06:55:00.000-07:00

One of the most amazing areas in New Orleans is St. Charles Avenue in the Garden District.

Right in the heart of New Orleans is this beautiful street where hundreds of huge Live Oaks create a shady archway over the old streetcar track. Old mansions line the street, and it is like being transported back to a time when the noisiest thing you could hear was the sound of the streetcars as they went clattering down the track. And the those same old streetcars are still here on St. Charles Avenue. They were built to last, just like those old mansions. They are still carrying tourists, students, and people going to work. Even Hurricane Katrina could not keep them down for long!

(This painting was commissioned by HCA Delta Division offices on Canal Street.)

To purchase my paintings and prints of New Orleans, visit http://www.neworleans-art.net/

2009-03-17T05:32:00.000-07:00

Missing New Orleans - It has been two months since I was last in this city, and it will be two more months until I will return. As I worked on this particular canvas, the still gray days of March in northern Illinois faded away, and I was transported to Louisiana where the breezes are soft and warm.

In this painting, "Big Easy Sunset," I've tried to capture that golden light which floods the French Quarter at the end of the day. The old stucco buildings are illuminated by the streetlamps and the last rays of sunlight. It must be the tiny droplets of water in the humid air which create this unique glowing atmosphere.

This painting will soon be on display at the Kako Gallery on Royal Street in the French Quarter.

See more of Diane Millsap's paintings at:

www.neworleans-art.net

New Orleans Mardi Gras Night

2009-02-19T09:38:00.000-08:00

Having just returned from another trip to New Orleans, I was inspired to paint one of the colorful French Quarter balconies which was decorated for Mardi Gras. The images of Mardi Gras are so unique. In addition to their mysterious beauty, they evoke not only memories of good times, but also a history of time honored traditions. In an age where almost everything old is discarded for the new, it is wonderful that the people of New Orleans treasure their past!

Visit my website at www.neworleans-art.net

Zydeco with Warren Prejean by Diane Millsap

2008-12-30T08:21:00.000-08:00

Cajun, Zydeco, and Louisiana roots music are my favorites. I love the vitality and rhythm. When my husband and I are in New Orleans we always gravitate to the clubs where these bands are appearing. When we are at home in Illinois, we try to take in all the Zydeco festivals we can find. Last summer at "Gumbo Ya Ya" in Rock Island Illinois we were fortunate to hear Mr. Warren Prejean Sr. from Lafayette, Louisiana. He was kind enough to give me permission to paint this portrait of him.This portrait has since been made into a giclee print by Art.com, and has just been selected as an EBSQ "Art of the Day" award. Warren is a great performer and and he really connects with an audience. I hope that I captured his warmth and enthusiasm in this painting.

http://www.ebsqart.com/ArtOfTheDay/cmd_20081230_ArtOfTheDay.htm

Visit my website at www.neworleans-art.net

Frenchmen Street in New Orleans - Sold

2008-10-31T05:44:00.000-07:00

After hurricanes Gustav and Ike, I finally made it to New Orleans to do some more photographing for future paintings. One evening, my husband and I walked from our hotel in the Quarter to Frenchmen Street located in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood. It's a great section of town, packed with jazz clubs like the Blue Nile, Snug Harbor, and D.B.A.

As we walked down Chartres Street into the Marigny neighborhood, the homes we passed, (mostly shotgun style) looked great in the sunset with their fresh coats of paint and their potted flowers. When we arrived on Frenchmen Street itself I was struck by the fact that it has a glow all its own....nothing like Bourbon Street. It's just a warm friendly spot where you can have some great gumbo and hear some fantastic music.

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

"Dawn in the French Quarter"

2008-09-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

One of my latest paintings of the French Quarter.

I painted this one while I waited to see whether or not Hurricane Gustav would cancel our scheduled trip to New Orleans. Trying not think of the devastation that could happen again, I wanted to show this corner (just off Jackson Square) in a calm and peaceful light.

Thank God this wonderful city was spared! My husband and I had to postpone our trip, but we will now go at the end of September. Can't wait! I'm not even going to think about IKE!!!!

To purchase this painting:

http://cgi.ebay.com/VIBRANT-PAINTING-of-NEW-ORLEANS-Street-at-DAWN-MILLSAP_W0QQitemZ180283749816QQihZ008QQcategoryZ60437QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

For more about New Orleans Art by Diane Millsap visit http://www.neworleans-art.net/

"House of Blues" New Orleans - Original Oil by Diane Millsap

2008-08-07T05:53:00.000-07:00

SOLD

For more about Diane's New Orleans Art visit http://www.neworleans-art.net/

New Paintings of New Orleans

2008-07-12T06:09:00.000-07:00