DENISE GALLAGHER + LOUISIANA PARTNERSHIP FOR THE ARTS

April 17, 2024

The Louisiana Partnership for the Arts chose designer and illustrator, Denise Gallagher  as the official artist for the state’s latest specialty designed license plate. As a Louisiana artist, Denise was thrilled to work with the Louisiana Partnership for the Arts, a statewide alliance of arts organizations, artists and advocates that empowers the arts community to enhance the quality of life for all Louisianans. 

The new design features a stylized egret surrounded by elements of the arts, including musical instruments, a book, a paintbrush, and flowers. The illustration is created in an earthy palette of aqua blue, olive green, orange, and brown—a nod to the lush green swamps and beautiful landscape of the artist’s home. Denise chose the egret as it is found throughout the entire state, unlike the pelican, Louisiana’s state bird. She used her unique graphic style to create an inspiring image that will move viewers to appreciate all forms of art—from music and theater to visual and literary. 

Picture of Illustrator Denise Gallagher with her sketch of the stylized egret for the new state license plate.

Denise worked closely with a printer in Angola, Louisiana. The old-school printing methods presented some challenges, but in the end, the result was remarkable. Denise will join in the official unveiling of the license plate during Louisiana Arts Day at the State Capitol in Baton Rouge, Louisiana on April 18th!

Illustrator Denise Gallagher license plate design for state of Louisiana
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