Bright sun shined on the paddock area of the New Orleans Fairgrounds as the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival celebrated the launch of its 45th iteration at the annual press party this morning.
Producer/Director Quint Davis introduced the first of many dignitaries by saying, “We are in a golden age of New Orleans…and of New Orleans leadership under Mayor Mitch Landrieu.” Other big wigs followed all praising the city and its signature event.
The two artists, Terrence Osborne and Richard Thomas, proudly stood before their work as the official poster and the Congo Square poster were unveiled. In what is a Jazz Fest first, Thomas was a mentor and teacher to Osborne when the younger painter was an aspiring artist.
The posters are both available through Art4now.
As Davis listed all of the longstanding and new attributes of the festival, he pointed out that the Gentilly stage now has a sponsor. Samsung Galaxy joins Acura, People’s Health, Budweiser, Coke and others, along with Shell, the presenting sponsor.
He also spoke about this year’s special stage, “Jazz Fest Celebrates Brasil.” Numerous bands from the South American country, which shares so much history with New Orleans, will perform including the groundbreaking band BaianaSystem. Master artisan demonstrations, authentic street food, and multimedia exhibits from Brasil will also be on hand.
For hardcore festers, the debut of the “cubes” provide the first look at which bands will be playing on which stages at which times. A quick perusal demonstrates the depth of talent at Jazz Fest. As Davis said, “ The cubes are designed to get us beyond the big names.” And indeed they do.
On the opening day, April 25, 2014, you might think you need to choose between Santana, the Avett Brothers or Public Enemy. But you can opt against the big stages and check out jazz singer Gregory Porter, Jelly Roll Morton enthusiasts Aurora Nealand and the Royal Roses. Or you can be where I’ll be—at Brice Miller and the Mahogany Brass Band.
The same goes for every other day of the festival. See you there!
Poster images: ©2014 art4now Inc.
