Official 2020 Mardi Gras Artwork Reveal: Artist Candice Alexander's Lake Charles Masterpiece
The 2020 Mardi Gras Season Officially Launches in Lake Charles
On January 3, 2020, the Mardi Gras season in Lake Charles began with a vibrant downtown celebration featuring music, food, drinks, and the unveiling of the official 2020 Mardi Gras artwork. This festive design, emblematic of Louisiana's Playground, was created by acclaimed local artist Candice Alexander.
A Journey of Artistic Innovation
Born and raised in Jennings, Louisiana, Candice has called Lake Charles home for 20 years. Before settling here, she honed her skills traveling the U.S., spending 15 years crafting and selling art at Renaissance festivals in New York, Pennsylvania, and Florida.
Candice's path took a pivotal turn in 2001 when she restored a 1974 VW Thing using parts from a wrecked one. She even sculpted from its front panel—which belonged to one of her professors. Trading it for a printing press launched her printmaking career. That restored VW Thing still graces her studio, symbolizing her artistic evolution.
Reflecting on a serendipitous moment, Candice shared a Christmas miracle story that propelled her forward. Her Fleur de Lis series emerged from this chapter—details to follow.
After 10 years at Historic Central School, Candice outgrew the space. Spotting her current downtown studio across the street during lunch with friends eight years ago, she leased it. Once echoing with emptiness, it's now a bustling gallery and landmark filled with her creations.
Commissioned for Mardi Gras Glory
Known for printmaking and bespoke 3D works, Candice excels at bringing visions to life. She was honored to create Lake Charles' official 2020 Mardi Gras artwork for the second consecutive year and also for Washington, D.C.'s celebration. Her pieces vividly capture Louisiana's Mardi Gras heritage and history.
During a studio visit, I previewed the originals as Candice detailed their inspirations.
The Lake Charles poster showcases the Historic Downtown District, including the Charleston Hotel—Lake Charles' first 'skyscraper' and now her studio/gallery. Subtle nods include sponsors and commissioners peering from windows, like Mayor Nic Hunter, Katherine and Paige Vidrine, and Candice herself. The Mardi Gras queen holds a Crying Eagle Brewing Company beer, her mask mirroring their logo.
Did You Know? 'Crying Eagle' translates to Calcasieu in the Atakapa-Ishak language, naming our parish. The brewery plans a lakefront expansion near the Port Wonder project, future home to the Children's Museum and LDWF Science Center.
The railing evokes the Calcasieu River Bridge's crossed pirate pistols—an iconic Lake Charles symbol. A light-up lantern with motion sensor adds immersive festivity, while the sky pays homage to Starry Night.
The D.C. piece draws from The Story of Evangeline, where a scorned husband shoots his unfaithful wife (linked to Jean Lafitte); the bullet glances off her amethyst brooch. Candice embeds the poem's words, adding 3D magnolias, the state flower, and a giant dandelion.
Available in various sizes and framing options, plus merchandise like t-shirts, mugs, and more. Her 150th Anniversary Mardi Gras piece from three years prior is also offered.
Preserving Lake Charles Heritage
Candice's frames feature cast pirate pistols, echoing the 5,000 on the Calcasieu River Bridge. Self-taught in molding eight months prior, she perfected the process after initial setbacks. Available in sizes from ornaments to life-size displays with historical backdrops.
A miniature Sabine Pass Lighthouse, partnered with the Cameron Preservation Society, uses original materials. Sales support restoration.
Recognized with the 2019 Citizen of the Humanities Award from the Arts and Humanities Council of Southwest Louisiana for her preservation efforts.
Her spiritual works, like church commissions, reflect Lake Charles' faith traditions.
Illustrating Hannah from Louisiana by Paige Vidrine (from Ally-Gator Book Bites), plus coasters featuring recent Mardi Gras art.
Fleur de Lis 'World Within' Series
Featured across local businesses, this series offers customizable designs on various products.
Explore more at Candice Alexander Studio. Visit her welcoming downtown space for custom creations, like my personalized locust shell piece or interlocking pewter hearts—ideal gifts.
Candice's dedication to Louisiana culture and community makes her a true ambassador for Lake Charles art.
