March 9 — April 29, 2007 at the FAC MODERN

When the levees broke in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, nearly an entire American city was swept away. New Orleans lay devastated and destroyed, just hours after one of the most horrific natural events ever to hit this nation. Although no other area in this country can conjure up a richer and more provocative history, so many were dead, dying or forgotten that most citizens thought themselves lucky just to be displaced.

The Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center is proud to host Katrina: Catastrophe and Catharsis, the first exhibition dedicated to the works of internationally respected artists responding to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Showcased at the FAC MODERN will be the ongoing response of leading artists and photographers, including David Bates, Luis Cruz Azaceta, John Scott, Douglas Bourgeois, Willie Birch, Jacqueline Bishop and Debbie Fleming Caffery.

The exhibition was organized by Arthur Roger, one of New Orleans’ most prominent and respected gallery owners for over thirty years. Roger himself was displaced by the hurricane. Despite the catastrophes that afflicted his own personal life, Roger wasted little time in asking artists throughout the nation for work that commented on the aftermath of Katrina.

The resulting exhibition is nothing short of remarkable. The painting, photography, and drawing that constitute the show represent deeply personal statements that cover the gamut of emotions. Rife with pathos, the show is at once powerfully moving, provocative, and uplifting. After debuting in Colorado Springs the exhibition will travel to various venues throughout the United States.

…experience Katrina through the eyes of (the) artist.
-Carol Vogel, the New York Times

	Watch video of Opening Night
	Listen to Dr. Michael De Marsche’s NPR interview about the exhibition

More Details:

Katrina: Catastrophe and Catharsis
This exhibition debuts in Colorado Springs before touring the nation; it’s the first dedicated to the works of Louisiana artists responding to the Katrina aftermath

Katrina: Panel Discussion
Arthur Roger and three Louisiana artists will provide the first serious discussion of Katrina from the artists’ perspective

Katrina: Fact Sheet
Information on the exhibition and panel discussion, including dates, times, tickets, locations and more

Shep’s New Orleans Heard featuring Kid Merv
Background information on the band playing at the FAC Modern on March 9-10 and their Colorado tour

Letter from Mitchell J. Landrieu, Louisiana Lt. Governor
In this letter to Dr. Michael De Marsche, the Lt. Governor expresses his appreciation for the exhibition