A powerful tribute to South Baton Rouge, this mural blends nature and geometry to celebrate the community’s strength, history, and ongoing transformation.

Artist Statement:“Rooted in Resilience” is a celebration of the enduring spirit of the South Baton Rouge community, where history and hope intertwine like the deep roots of the live oaks that have long defined this landscape. Inspired by the neighborhood’s journey through hardship and renewal, the mural pays homage to the natural beauty that has witnessed generations of change—majestic magnolias, crepe myrtles, and towering oaks stand as symbols of strength and continuity. Geometric patterns subtly incorporated among the flora represent progress and the ongoing transformation of the area, while the tritone color palette echoes the harmony between past, present, and future. This piece stands as a tribute to those who have nurtured and sustained the neighborhood despite challenges, serving as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of unity and growth.”

This section represents the spirit of a neighborhood shaped by generations. It honors the journey of Old South Baton Rouge—where history and hope are deeply intertwined—and pays tribute to the people who have endured, rebuilt, and thrived.

This section represents beauty, strength, and continuity. The magnolias bloom as living witnesses to the neighborhood’s past—quietly powerful symbols of resilience that continue to inspire the future.

This section represents stability and legacy. The live oaks, with their wide canopies and deep roots, anchor both the mural and the community—standing watch over decades of change, growth, and unity.

This section represents movement and transformation. Geometric designs flow subtly through the landscape, symbolizing the forward momentum of South Baton Rouge—where tradition and innovation walk hand in hand.

Therese Knowles’ ceramic plate installation, Dinner, honors the beauty of shared meals and meaningful conversation. Inspired by Nikki Giovanni’s poem “Love Is,” the piece reflects themes of connection, memory, and care.

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Artist Statement:
“In this installation, I want the viewer to see themselves sitting for dinner and talking about what Love Is. Each plate tells a bit of a story that maybe the viewer might need to hear or can relate to. The poem, Love Is, written by Nikki Giovanni, can be viewed horizontally across the second row of plates. She says no matter how old we are, we all need love, and I hope the viewer knows they are ‘loved.’”

A young girl, deep in thought, looks ahead with quiet courage. A small bird rests on her head like a crown. Above her, one word is carved: Fearless. It’s a reminder that strength often shows up softly and early.

In the center of this plate: Love Is by Nikki Giovanni. Around the edge, a message wraps around like an embrace: You Are Admired. It’s a plate meant to remind us that we matter and that love sees us fully.

“See the Light” is pressed into the clay like an invitation. In the center, a young girl’s face is surrounded by flowers and a definition of hope, “Mankind’s greatest weakness and greatest strength.” This plate is all about staying soft and strong at the same time.

This plate holds a line from Nikki Giovanni’s poem: “Love is listening and laughing and asking questions, no matter what your age.” Birds perched on a wire stretch across the top, like neighbors in conversation. It’s a gentle nudge to keep showing up for one another, with open ears and open hearts.

This dynamic painting by Kristen KAWD Downing delves into the life and legacy of P.B.S. Pinchback, highlighting his significant contributions during Louisiana's Reconstruction era. Central to the piece is a recreation of Pinchback's most iconic photograph, flanked by pivotal moments from his life and career.​  

Artist Statement: "This painting explores the life and impact of P.B.S. Pinchback, notably his contributions during the Reconstruction era in Louisiana. In the center of the painting, there is a recreation of the most iconic photograph of Pinchback. The pivotal moments in his life and career flank the portrait. On the left, the focus is the story of Pinchback being sworn in as the first Black governor of Louisiana. On the right, two stories are being told. First, the story of his life before he became governor. Pinchback was born free in Macon, Georgia to a free woman and a white planter who once enslaved her. As a young man, Pinchback made a living working as a cabin boy and a steward on steamships to help support his family. Pinchback was also a Union Army officer.​ Second, the story of one of his most well-known contributions — the founding of Southern University, which was the result of his push for the creation of a Black college in Louisiana at the Constitutional Convention in 1879. This painting also sheds light on voting rights, freedom, education, and the other founders of Southern University. The color palette used intends to evoke a sense of energy and movement with every brush stroke. The use of bold colors brings viewers' attention closer to the small details. A common motif in KAWD’s work is the maze, which symbolizes the path from one place to another while making a difference for others, which Pinchback certainly embodies."

At the heart of the mural is a powerful recreation of P.B.S. Pinchback’s most iconic portrait. As the first Black governor of Louisiana, his image serves as a symbol of leadership, resilience, and progress during the Reconstruction era.

This scene captures the historic moment Pinchback was sworn in as Louisiana’s first Black governor in 1872. His appointment marked a major milestone in American political history and a step forward for Black representation in government.

Before rising to political prominence, Pinchback worked as a cabin boy and steward on steamships to support his family. Born free to a formerly enslaved woman and a white planter, his early journey reflects strength, self-reliance, and determination.

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Pinchback’s advocacy led to the founding of Southern University in 1880. His push for accessible higher education for Black students was a defining achievement, and this moment in the mural honors his vision for equity and empowerment through learning.