City of Lake Charles | City of Lake Charles website
City of Lake Charles | City of Lake Charles website
In a recent event on Sunday, April 7, 2024, the City of Lake Charles proudly unveiled the Nellie Lutcher Mural as part of the inaugural Nellie Lutcher Festival. The mural, a centerpiece of the newly constructed Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park, was made possible through a $15,000 grant by Tellurian Inc. and the Leadership Southwest Class of 2022.
The artwork, designed and painted by artist John Whaley, Jr., a Southwest Louisiana native, pays tribute to Nellie Lutcher's musical legacy. Whaley shared his personal connection to the project, stating, "Working on this mural has been deeply personal for me." He further expressed his desire for the mural to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District and empower youth through the creative process.
Mayor Nic Hunter commended the mural, emphasizing its importance in adding a unique sense of place to the Nellie Lutcher Cultural District. He stated, "We are absolutely thrilled with the finished piece. Mr. Whaley did an incredible job of capturing the musician’s joyful spirit in this colorful piece."
The mural, selected as the Community Impact Project for the Leadership Southwest Class of 2022, reflects the program's mission to make a lasting impact on Southwest Louisiana. Michelle McInnis, Senior Vice President of the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, highlighted the significance of the mural as a testament to positive change in the community.
Funding for the project was provided through Tellurian's Leadership Southwest Community Investment Grant, showcasing the company's commitment to local community growth. Heather Hohensee, Government & Public Affairs Director for Tellurian, emphasized the mural's role in preserving the area's history for future generations.
The Nellie Lutcher Memorial Park, where the mural is located, stands as a beacon of cultural significance at 702 Enterprise Blvd. The vibrant artwork serves not only as a visual delight for park visitors but also as a lasting tribute to Nellie Lutcher's impactful legacy on the community.
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