The More You NOLA: Where Y’Art exhibits local street artists

Local street artists utilize New Orleans as their endless canvas. Whether they’re gazing at Gabriel Flores’ kaleidoscopic design on the wall at the Ace Hotel or stumbling upon schools of Jeremy Novy’s stenciled koi fish swimming within cement channels throughout the Marigny, passersby often stop in their tracks when viewing these vivid outdoor displays.

These prominent artists are bringing their raw talent indoors for the “1900 Block” exhibit presented by the Where Y’Art Gallery (1901 Royal St.).

“The concept is to bring vibrant street artists and muralists in our city into a gallery setting,” said Collin Ferguson, a Tulane University alumna and managing director of Where Y’Art.

“The art is reflective of surrounding neighborhoods and tells the story of the people who live there.”

— Collin Ferguson, co-founder and managing director of Where Y’Art

A graduate of the A.B. Freeman School of Business, Ferguson launched Where Y’Art in 2013 with fellow artist Catherine Todd.

Where Y’Art is an online platform connecting local artisans to each other and to buyers, resulting in an inclusive art experience that is part 24-hour virtual gallery and part social network.

“We began with about 30 artists and now have grown to a community of over 100 artists,” said Ferguson.

A placard with a QR code linking directly to an artist’s online profile accompanies each work featured in Where Y’Art’s brick-and-mortar gallery and satellite locations. This allows for patrons to virtually meet the artist while viewing their works in person, said Where Y’Art community manager Heather Booth.

“We’re trying to break down barriers and create a warm and accessible space for people to interact with art,” said Todd, Where Y’Art’s creative director.

Through November, patrons can interact with the eclectic works displayed in “1900 Block” from artists Lionel Milton, Keith Eccles, Gabriel Flores, Jeremy Paten, Jessica Strahan, Joel Scilley, Kate Hanrahan and Jeremy Novy.

The pieces range from vibrant paintings to tagged skateboards.

“The art is reflective of surrounding neighborhoods and tells the story of the people who live there,” said Ferguson.

“I think New Orleans is ripe for a street art movement. The talent here is overwhelming,” said Todd.

To instantly connect with the New Orleans art community, click here.