NEW ORLEANS — The Krewe of Themis extends an invitation to its first-ever umbrella showcase at Stella Jones Gallery on February 4 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
“Parasols on Parade” will be the public’s chance to get an early look at these one-of-a-kind treasures handcrafted by Themis Titanesses with love, spectacular creativity and endless amounts of glitter.
The more than 30 exhibit pieces are part of a larger collection of bedazzled umbrellas to be thrown to lucky revelers at the Krewe’s inaugural ride on February 19.
Highlighting a variety of materials used, the umbrellas on display will honor legendary changemakers including The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Frida Kahlo and New Orleans’ own Baby Dolls (a source of inspiration for the Krewe’s signature throw).
Artist and Themis member Tracie Smith-Hughes has painstakingly decorated more than 100 umbrellas for her and fellow Themis sisters. She says, “I wanted to be a part of the culture of the city and through my actions and words, honor those who went before me; learning and being respectful and finding a way to preserve the traditions that make this crafting culture we have so incredibly special.”
And, she says, “impacting lives in a positive way with a little glitter” is fulfilling as it is joyful.
Themis chose umbrellas as the new Krewe’s signature throw for their significant representation of carnival season and New Orleans culture. Symbolizing protection, power, femininity, fashion, prestige, prosperity and more, these special parasols are in line with the Krewe’s overall spirit and mission.
The Krewe looks forward to introducing the public to what will become another sought-after prize at parades, similar to Muses shoes and Zulu coconuts.
Stella Jones Gallery, which has for nearly three decades showcased artists of the African diaspora and recently garnered recognition from Beyoncé, has ties to the Krewe as the owner’s daughter is a Titaness. The gallery will follow all local guidelines for COVID-19 and visitors will be required to wear a mask.
Event details:
What: “Parasols on Parade” brought to you from the Krewe of Themis
Where: Stella Jones Gallery, in the heart of the New Orleans Central Business District at Place St. Charles, 201 St Charles Ave #132, New Orleans, LA 70170
When: Friday, February 4, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Krewe of Themis Mission: The Krewe of Themis promotes and fosters social justice in the New Orleans Metropolitan area communities and beyond. We are a group of diverse women, uniting to cultivate positivity and inclusion in our community throughout the year. We believe that feminism is strongest when women of all races and sexual orientations work together for the greater good.
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