The Living Portrait
From human statues to fortune tellers, New Orleans is the number one place to experience the most unique street performers in the world. Visitors can find some of the most interesting types of street artists year round. Painters, cartoonists, tarot card readers, usicians, dancers, jugglers, and magicians can be found throughout the French Quarter, entertaining locals and tourists alike. Enjoying the street art of New Orleans is one of the least expensive ways to appreciate the city, especially for those visitors or locals on a budget. It is important to remember, however, that while the entertainment and performances are done for free, many street artists make their living from their talents. If by chance you take a photo or find ourself pleasantly entertained, it is a kind gesture to provide a tip to the street performer or artist. Tips
help keep the street art of Crescent City alive and thriving!
Visitors can appreciate live jazz on the street near Jackson Square, while others appreciate tumblers and jugglers near Café du Monde. Young writers, painters and cartoonists come out at night, offering quick treats for bar crawlers through Frenchman and Decatur Street. Because Royal Street is closed off to traffic for most of the year, many street artists in New Orleans can be found here. Mike the Construction Guy, Doreen’s Live Jazz, and an array of human statues can be found on Royal Street at any given time. Bourbon Street and Jackson Square are also great areas to have a fortune read or see stilt walkers, jugglers, fire breathers and all sorts of crazy, eccentric characters. It’s true when they say there is something for everyone in New Orleans and the same holds true for the city’s great street artists. During the morning, noon and night, anybody can find street art that suits their own tastes and style.
Next time you’re in New Orleans, be sure to take a stroll with your friends and family through the French Quarter and surrounding areas. The city’s fantastic street artists will surely leave you with an experience you won’t soon forget and that you’ll appreciate for a lifetime.
