Michalopoulos: Mystical Expressionism

This exhibition explores the prolific forty-year career of James Michalopoulos, whose expressive, vibrant paintings celebrate and inspire efforts to preserve New Orleans's vernacular architecture. Through his distinctive eye and bold painting techniques, Michalopoulos captures the essence of the city's architectural character—the weathered Creole cottages, ornate Victorian facades, and storied shotgun houses that have survived for centuries in this unique American city.

Featuring more than sixty works, the exhibition takes viewers on a visual journey through some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods, including the French Quarter, Tremé, Marigny, and Bywater. Michalopoulos's signature style—marked by unique perspectives and layers of thick impasto paint—brims with color and energy and conveys the spirit of the city that is his muse.

Far from being solely architectural studies, these paintings reveal Michalopoulos's profound connection to these neighborhoods. His work suggests both the vulnerability of these landscapes and buildings and their remarkable resilience amid rapid urban development, socio-economic shifts, and environmental challenges.

The exhibition includes significant loans from private collectors and new paintings created specifically for this show. Together, they offer visitors a comprehensive exploration of the symbiotic relationship between New Orleans and Michalopoulos's artistic vision, each reflecting and shaping the other.

Celebrate the opening of Michalopoulos: Mystical Expressionism in exceptional style at the Founders Ball 2025 on Friday, November 21 at the historic Cabildo. This elegant evening will bring together the cultural community of New Orleans for a dinner, live music, and first access to our new exhibition. Proceeds support the Louisiana Museum Foundation’s work to champion exhibitions, education, and preservation across the state’s museum network. Be part of the celebration—get your tickets now!