As a tribute to Natchitoches’ Tri-Centennial Celebration, New Orleans artist Stephan Wanger will paint and display history like no other by using recycled Mardi Gras beads. The public is invited to view breathtaking beaded mosaics that represent historic sites throughout Louisiana. Wanger will spend the next few months in Natchitoches creating magnificent pieces that will represent 300 years of historic Natchitoches.

The Bead Town exhibit will be held at the Natchitoches Arts Center located at 716 Second Street. The exhibit will be open to the public Tuesday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Friday – Sunday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Volunteers, who will oversee the exhibit, are needed to work in 2 hour shifts each day. For more information call 318-352-2746.

Wanger aims to bring attention to the global warming crisis through the use of recycled materials in fine art. Every year, Mardi Gras parades generate about 10,000 tons of trash distributed along the entire gulf coast with a bulk of that trash being Mardi Gras beads. He completed a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest mosaic called “Sanctuary of Alegria”. It’s a large mural that is 8 feet high and 30 feet wide. It depicts the skyline of New Orleans. See more of Wangers beaded mosaics at www.galeriaalegria.com.

Bead Town Natchitoches is made possible by the Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc.