Wednesday, June 22, 2022, 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Presbytère, 751 Chartres St

Join us for an evening exploring the artistry of the Rex parade, highlighting both historic imagery and contemporary processes and featuring newly discovered footage of the 1898 parade. The Rex Organization Archivist and Historian, Dr. Stephen Hales, will share insight into the krewe’s history and traditions and explore the evolution of the parade. In conversation with Curator of Costumes, Textiles, and Carnival Collections Wayne Phillips, float designers Caroline Thomas and Richard Valadie of Royal Artists will discuss the continued artistry that defines the parade and the influences of historic practices on contemporary design.

Rex Historian William French will also debut a two-minute film of the 1898 Rex parade from the Eye Filmmuseum in Amsterdam. This never-before-seen film is thought to be the oldest surviving moving footage of New Orleans, showcasing the impact of parading and the Rex Organization on the city.

This program is presented in connection with the current exhibition "Rex: The 150th Anniversary of the School of Design," in partnership with the Louisiana Museum Foundation, and made possible with generous support from IBERIABANK | First Horizon. It is free and open to the public and will take place at the Presbytère, 751 Chartres St., on Jackson Square. Pre-registration is encouraged.