New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University unveils 2026 poster by Francis X. Pavy

The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University unveiled its official 2026 festival poster, an original work by renowned Louisiana artist Francis X. Pavy, whose vivid, narrative-driven style has made him one of the region’s most celebrated visual storytellers.

Pavy’s work is deeply rooted in the folklore, iconography and rhythm of South Louisiana and brings a richly atmospheric dimension to this year’s festival poster. The 2026 poster depicts a contemplative reader silhouetted on a sweeping wrought-iron balcony at sunset, overlooking a dreamlike cityscape of New Orleans. The sky glows with saturated pinks and blues, while the spires and rooftops of the city rise in intricate patterns behind him, evoking the city’s magic and mystery.

With bold lines and expressive color, Pavy’s design captures the feeling of being transported by a book. Known for blending myth, memory and place, Pavy infuses the poster with elements that feel both familiar and timeless, echoing the festival’s mission to uplift stories and spark imagination.“His poster beautifully embodies what the festival strives to create: a space where readers, writers and thinkers can gather to explore ideas and experience the joy of discovery.”

- Cheryl Landrieu, festival co-chair

“My goal in creating this image was to capture a specific New Orleans feeling: the quiet solitude of being lost in a book, yet having the vibrant magic of the French Quarter right at an arm’s length,” Pavy said. “Placing the solitary reader on a steamboat balcony, floating on the Mississippi River, silhouetted against a richly saturated dusk sky, creates a moment suspended between quiet reflection and the world beyond. Art and literature both transport us, and this poster is meant to be an invitation to step into that suspended, narrative moment.”

Adding to the artwork’s distinctive character is the poster’s elegant, hand-crafted lettering, designed by Pavy’s daughter Annabelle Pavy. Her stylized typography complements the visual mood of the piece—flowing, architectural and rooted in the same sense of place—creating a cohesive design that bridges generations of artistic expression within the Pavy family.

“Francis Pavy’s work reflects the spirit of Louisiana; it’s layered, soulful and filled with stories,” said Cheryl Landrieu, festival co-chair. “His poster beautifully embodies what the festival strives to create: a space where readers, writers and thinkers can gather to explore ideas and experience the joy of discovery.”

Pavy, whose career spans painting, printmaking and sculpture, often draws inspiration from the music, folklore, architecture and natural beauty of South Louisiana. The 2026 festival poster continues this tradition, inviting attendees to step into a moment suspended between quiet reflection and the vibrant world beyond the balcony.

The 2026 New Orleans Book Festival will take place March 12–15 on Tulane University’s uptown campus. Free and open to the public, the festival features a dynamic lineup of national and regional authors, interactive Family Day activities, culinary conversations, live music and community events designed to celebrate literature in all its forms.

Posters and art prints will be available for purchase online and on-site during the festival. Posters are $45 and art prints are $15, with proceeds supporting the festival’s free public programming, including literacy initiatives and Family Day activities.

For more information about the New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University, including the full 2026 lineup, visit bookfest.tulane.edu.

Francis Pavy named Festival International de Louisiane’s 2026 Official Visual Artist

Festival International de Louisiane is proud to announce that Louisiana’s legendary artist Francis Pavy has been selected as the Official Visual Artist for Festival 2026. As the chosen artist for the event’s 40th Anniversary year, Francis has completed the official artwork that will represent this world-renowned cultural celebration, which draws attendees from around the globe to downtown Lafayette each spring.

Dubbed the “Picasso of Zydeco” by Rolling Stone magazine, Francis X. Pavy (b. 1954) is a Louisiana-based visual artist celebrated for his vibrant and evocative paintings that capture the spirit of Cajun culture. Born in Lafayette, Pavy’s work is influenced by the folklore, music, and traditions of South Louisiana, blending elements of history, mysticism, and memory into striking, narrative-driven compositions. 

“It's a great privilege to be chosen as the artist for the 40th year of Festival International.” said Pavy. “This festival is one of the heartbeats of our community, and to be chosen to capture that vibrant, multicultural energy for such a milestone—the big 40th anniversary—is humbling. It’s a chance to put a work out there for hundreds of thousands of people to connect with. I feel a mix of excitement, humility, and incredible responsibility.”

Francis knows the festival better than most, as he has been attending the annual music and arts festival since the very beginning in 1987. His impact within the art scene locally has been monumental, but his reach goes far beyond this state’s borders.

Pavy’s artistic practice includes printmaking, sculpture, mixed media, Virtual and Augmented reality to further explore the visual storytelling that defines his career. His career was shaped by his close connections with Louisiana’s thriving music scene, leading to artwork that pulses with the rhythm and energy of zydeco, blues, and Cajun music. Festival International’s organizers are thrilled for his work to represent Festival International, and Lafayette, for this landmark year. 

“It’s been incredible watching Francis bring this piece of art to life; seeing each step of his creative process and hearing his stories along the way.” said Sylvie Wartelle, Vendor & Merchandise Director. 

The Festival team wanted something unique this year, and decided that bringing the Pavy family together, Francis and his daughter Annabelle Pavy, to complete the artwork, pin and poster together, would be an extraordinary opportunity. 

“Collaborating with Annabelle Pavy of Pavy Studio on the pin and poster designs made the process feel even more special!” added Wartelle. “It’s a great collaboration, and a beautiful example of the Festival’s multigenerational spirit.”

Annabelle has just finalized the 2026 pin and poster, which are based off of her father’s official art piece. The duo’s natural ability to create beauty together has set a tone for the upcoming festival.

“I was raised by two deeply creative parents. I have always had an innate inclination towards craftsmanship and creative exploration. In recent years, I have primarily focused on my skills in graphic design, illustration, and typography while working alongside my mother at our creative agency, Pavy Studio.”

The pin, poster and artwork will be revealed by Festival International de Louisiane and the Pavy Family on March 1, 2026 at the annual Premiere Party. Save the date and stay tuned for details about the event at www.festivalinternational.org.

Learn more about Francis Pavy’s work at www.pavy.com

Francis Pavy Honored with Basin Arts' Prestigious Lineage Award

Lafayette's vibrant arts scene celebrated one of its most influential figures on October 1st, as renowned artist Francis X. Pavy was awarded the 2025 Lineage Award by Basin Arts. The event, held at Basin Arts' new space in Lafayette, honored Pavy for his lifetime of creative contributions and his deep-rooted connection to the cultural landscape of Acadiana.

The Lineage Award recognizes visual and performing artists who have not only dedicated their careers to their craft but have also embodied community values and laid the groundwork for future generations of artists. Francis Pavy's decades-long body of work, with its bold colors, layered textures, and Southern symbolism, has done just that. His art is a visual record of regional memory, music, and language, capturing the rhythm and spirit of the American South.

Pavy, who has been quietly shaping the visual soul of South Louisiana since the 1980s, is known for his narrative-driven paintings inspired by the music, folklore, and lived experiences of the region. He has been called "the Picasso of Zydeco" by Rolling Stone magazine and has exhibited his work both nationally and internationally. His art is featured in numerous collections, including the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art.

The award ceremony was more than just a celebration of Pavy's past achievements; it was also an affirmation of his ongoing role as a cultural ambassador. By honoring Pavy, Basin Arts highlighted the importance of his work in ensuring that the vibrant, memory-driven imagery of Louisiana continues to inspire and connect communities for generations to come.

Pavy receives Lineage Award from Basin Arts

Artist Francis Pavy Inspires Students at Isidore Newman School

On a recent visit to Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, renowned Louisiana artist Francis Pavy brought a unique and engaging learning experience to students. On September 12th, Pavy dedicated the entire school day to interacting with students, answering their questions, and offering insights into his creative process.

Known for his vibrant and surrealist paintings that often blend figurative and symbolic elements, Pavy's work is a testament to the rich artistic tradition of Louisiana. His visit to Isidore Newman provided a rare opportunity for students to connect with a living artist and gain a deeper understanding of the thought and intention behind his art.

Throughout the day, students from various grade levels had the chance to engage in informal Q&A sessions with Pavy. They asked about everything from his inspirations and techniques to the challenges and rewards of a life in art. Pavy's willingness to share his personal journey resonated with many, encouraging young artists to explore their own creative paths.

This type of direct engagement with a professional artist is invaluable for students. It goes beyond the classroom curriculum, offering a real-world perspective on art as a career and a passion. By seeing an artist at work and hearing his stories, students are inspired to think more critically about art, to appreciate the discipline required for creative pursuits, and to understand the role of art in society.

Artist Francis Pavy answers questions from 12 grade and 2nd grade students.

Pavy's "Heat" Included in the Cimarron National Works on Paper Exhibition

Francis Pavy's work, "Heat," has been accepted into the prestigious Cimarron National Works on Paper exhibition. The piece will be presented by the Oklahoma State University Museum of Art and will be on display from August 19 to December 19, 2025.

Pavy Opens “From the Archives’ @ the Isadore Newman School

Lafayette-based artist Francis Pavy is set to unveil an exciting new exhibition featuring 26 works at the Isadore Newman School in New Orleans. The show, which opens on August 14, 2025, will run through September 22, 2025.

This collection offers a rare opportunity for art lovers and students alike to view works that have never before been displayed publicly. Pavy, renowned for his vibrant and narrative-driven art, will also be sharing his insights with students at the school on September 12, 2025. This artist talk promises to be a unique experience, offering a glimpse into the creative process and the stories behind his pieces.

Francis Pavy receives 2025 Lineage award from basin Arts

From Basin Arts: On Wednesday, October 1st, from 6:00-10:00 PM, join us as we celebrate & honor the 2025 LINEAGE Award recipients. LINEAGE will be the VERY FIRST event in our new space and will also mark the start of Basin Arts' 10th Year as an arts organization! We cannot wait to welcome guests into this next chapter by celebrating two of our community's most esteemed artists.

ABOUT THE HONOREES:

Francis X. Pavy is a Louisiana-based visual artist known for his vibrant and evocative paintings that capture the spirit of Cajun culture. Pavy’s work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and his paintings are featured in numerous private and public collections, including museums and institutions dedicated to Southern and contemporary American art. A celebrated cultural figure in Louisiana, Pavy continues to create art that honors the soul of Cajun life while pushing the boundaries of contemporary Southern expression.

Grace Hamilton-Mayfield is a visionary arts leader, educator, and advocate with over four decades of experience in shaping the cultural and educational landscape of Louisiana and beyond. She established the Hamilton Academy of the Arts as well as the Hamilton Academy Performance Company. Over the years, more than 4,000 students have trained under Grace’s guidance, and tens of thousands have experienced the transformative power of her work.

Lafayette Travel Launches “Gumbo People” Video Series with Acclaimed Artist Francis Pavy

The first episode launches today and features local artist Francis X. Pavy, known for his bold, folkloric style and deep connection to South Louisiana’s visual storytelling traditions. Pavy’s video explores his lifelong commitment to honoring the South through art, his influences from zydeco and Cajun culture, and how Louisiana continues to shape his creative vision. See the Video Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yyPpOaqfbm4&t=3s

"Last Supper with Elvis" on the Cover of The Real Estate Network Magazine

Catch Francis Pavy's iconic piece, "Last Supper with Elvis," on the cover of The Real Estate Network magazine. The issue also includes an extensive five-page spread and an insightful article by Brooke Broussard, offering a closer look at Pavy's remarkable contributions to the art world.

Pavy's "Mystic New Crown Princess" Graces Current Arts Cover!

Francis Pavy's painting "Mystic New Crown Princess," is featured prominently on the cover of the latest issue of Current Arts magazine. Delve deeper into Pavy's distinctive style with a special two-page spread showcasing his art inside the issue.

Francis Pavy's Art Dances onto Rolling Stones 7-inch Single!

A true collaboration of art and music! Francis Pavy's dynamic imagery, "Dancers," is featured on the cover of The Rolling Stones' 7-inch single of Clifton Chenier's classic song "Zydeco Son Pas Salé." This special release was on the legendary Arhoolie label and also appears on the Valcour Records tribute to Clifton Chenier.

Experience Art Differently: Fest House Virtual/Augmented Reality Showing

Experience Art Anew: Francis Pavy's Virtual & Augmented Reality Exhibition

Step into the future of art with Fest House's innovative six-part virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) exhibition, showcasing the groundbreaking work of renowned artist Francis Pavy. Produced by In-link and Ether, this immersive experience was a major highlight of the recent Festival International de Louisiane.

This cutting-edge VR/AR exhibit, proudly sponsored by Info-Link, offered a truly unique way to engage with Pavy's art. Visitors accessed the exhibition primarily through their cell phones by downloading a dedicated app via a QR code. Within the app, each of the six distinct sections of the exhibit was "triggered" by a specific image, seamlessly blending the physical and digital worlds.

The exhibition featured a diverse range of displays designed to provide a multi-faceted immersive experience:

• SOLAON Array: An innovative arrangement offering a unique visual perspective.

• Carousel Array: A rotating display providing dynamic views of Pavy's creations.

• Floating Frame Array: Artworks presented in an ethereal, seemingly suspended manner.

• Overhead Dynamic Virtual Reality Piece: A captivating VR experience viewed from above, offering a comprehensive and interactive perspective.

• A Movie: A cinematic exploration of Pavy's artistic vision.

• A Layered Painting: An augmented reality experience that revealed hidden depths and dimensions within a single painting.

This pioneering exhibition set a new standard for how art can be experienced, pushing the boundaries of traditional gallery settings and embracing the exciting possibilities of virtual and augmented reality.

Echos of Hue and Song @ ARTHUR ROGER GALLERY FEB 1-APRIL 22

Mark your calendars! "Echoes of Hue and Song," an exhibition featuring original and recent artwork by Francis X. Pavy, will be on display at the prestigious Arthur Roger Gallery in New Orleans. The exhibition runs from February 1 to April 12, 2025, at 434 Julia Street. Don't miss this opportunity to experience Pavy's latest creations. See all the artwork here: https://www.pavy.com/projects/echos-of-hue-and-song or here: https://www.artworkarchive.com/pieces/collections/echos-of-hue-and-song-gallery-exhibition

This exhibition represents a crest in the ocean of my artistic voyage, rooted in the foundations of my past work while pushing into uncharted creative territory. Over the years, I’ve sought new ways to express myself—experimenting with color schemes, patterns, and techniques. This collection draws heavily from ideas and concepts that were once left behind or not fully explored, blending them with fresh approaches to create something entirely new.

At the heart of this show is a piece titled  Chansons Abandonnées ("Abandoned Songs"). This work revisits themes I explored in an earlier painting, Lost Songs (2005), and embodies the central idea of revisiting, reclaiming, and expanding upon forgotten or dormant ideas.

While preparing for the recent release of my book, which reviews 40 years of my work, I had the opportunity to reflect deeply on my creative evolution. Revisiting earlier pieces unearthed forgotten techniques and concepts that had long been shelved. This rediscovery became the driving force behind many of the works in this show.

Night-Blooming Flowers: Work in Contrasts 

The first pieces I created for this collection were inspired by night-blooming flowers, such as Twin Blooms, Deep Summer, and Night Lily with Pomegranate and Okra. For these works, I employed an older glazing technique to create a sense of depth—pushing the darker backgrounds back to enhance the luminous, lighter foregrounds. The resulting contrast evokes the quiet intensity of nocturnal beauty.

Acadian Eclipse: Capturing the Light of a Moment

Acadian Eclipse, was completed in late spring. It was inspired by the surreal light during a solar eclipse, a moment that felt suspended between day, night, and twilight. This work features a central image of a barking dog, framed against a stark, darker background, a motif I’ve explored extensively in the past. The challenge was capturing the eclipse’s fleeting, otherworldly light while maintaining the high contrast that anchors the work.

 A Grid of Exploration: Smaller Works 

The smaller pieces in this show were conceived as both studies and finished works. Arranged in a grid, they explore diverse themes and techniques. Notable works include Coastal Prairie with Attakapas Hand, Contemplating the Ossan Two-Step, and Two Guitars Avec  Couteau. For Contemplating the Ossan Two-Step, I revisited the fragmented imagery of a 2011 piece titled Burgundy Mist, aiming to delve deeper into its disjointed narrative and composition. 

During this process, I noticed a recurring circular motif, which culminated in a larger work called Dark Pool. Inspired by the shimmering, iridescent colors of oil on water, this piece stands out for its intensity and focus, expanding on my long-standing exploration of water imagery.

Some pieces in this collection depict events rather than abstract impressions. Works such as Full Moon at the Blue Moon, Entering the Green Room at Bobby Charles’ Club in Holly Beach, and Gumbo Ce Soir capture specific moments and memories. Others, like Burning Green Firewood and Triplerow, offer poetic glimpses of fleeting experiences.

One recurring vision throughout the summer was that of a burning city—a vivid, almost dreamlike image that seemed to symbolize the intense heat, chaos, and energy of urban life. I This motif weaves through several works, reflecting an emotional undercurrent that I felt compelled to explore. The Image haunted me all summer. 

Final Works: Reflection and Forward Motion

The last two pieces I completed for this show were Requiem for a King and Mystic New Crown Princess,. Requiem for a King revisits a small watercolor I painted in 1988, expanding its composition into a larger format for the first time. The timing felt right, as this year marks the centennial of the legendary musician Clifton Chenier’s  birth.

Mystic New Crown Princess blends elements of carnival and trail ride culture, looking forward to the future of these enduring traditions. It serves as a celebration of continuity and transformation—a fitting note to conclude this collection.

COUNTRY ROADS MAGAZINE FEB 2025

Look for Francis Pavy's captivating work, "Full Moon and the Blue Moon," on the cover of the February 2025 issue of Country Roads Magazine. Inside, you'll find an engaging article titled "Pavicons" by Jordan LaHaye Fontenot, providing an in-depth look at Pavy's artistic journey and influence.

New Book Release: "Forty Years, Painting French Louisiana"

Just released in January, "Forty Years, Painting French Louisiana," Francis Pavy's new book, is now available from UL Press. This comprehensive volume features insightful articles by renowned writers Ben Hickey and Nick Spitzer, offering a rich exploration of Pavy's extensive career and his deep connection to French Louisiana. For more information to purchase book click here: https://shop.pavy.com/collections/bandanas-scarves/products/francis-x-pavy-fortyears-copy