In the heart of New Orleans, art is never a solitary act. It is a conversation, a mentorship, and, most importantly, a community effort. Since 2019, Young Audiences of Louisiana (YALA) has celebrated this spirit through YALA Art Live, a vibrant, family-centered event happening each year at Urban South Brewery.

But for YALA, the creation of a painting is only the beginning. This year, we are proud to showcase once again the "full circle" journey of these works: from their live creation in a bustling brewery to their final destination at our auction at YALA Gras on January 29, 2026 this year at the fabulous New Orleans Jazz Heritage Museum.

More Than a Painting: The Mentorship Model

At the core of YALA Art Live is a unique collaboration. Four professional visual artists are paired with four talented student artists to create large-scale works in real-time. This isn’t just about technique; it’s about providing students with a professional "entrepreneurial experience," allowing them to see their creative passion as a viable path forward.

As our upcoming YALA Gras honoree and Board Member, Marguerite Moisio, notes, the performing and visual arts are "transformative experiences" for building confidence. By working alongside professionals, students learn to "present themselves in a certain way," a skill that Marguerite emphasizes is critical for success in any professional field.

Spotlights on the Canvas: The 2025 Pairings

The 2025 event at Urban South was a masterclass in collaboration, featuring four distinct styles and stories

Heather Mattingly and Natalia Collins finished work!

The "Coloring Book" Approach

Heather Mattingly teamed up with Natalia Collins (8th Grade, Lincoln Elementary). Heather, a self-taught artist who approaches her work like a "giant coloring book," mentored Natalia in her second-ever painting. "She’s a natural, very talented artist," Heather shared, describing how they layered swirls and dots to create a vibrant floral arrangement.

Emre Karaoglu and Amyri Walker’s finished work!

A Personal Narrative

Emre Keraglou and Amyri Walker (Senior, West Jefferson HS) created a self-portrait of Amyri that included a raccoon—a signature nod to Emre’s own artistic style, blending the student’s identity with the mentor’s creative "voice."

Illustrating History

Audrey Watkins (Senior, YACS Burmaster HS) worked with the artist Ceaux. Audrey focused on the rich cultural tapestry of her home: "I want people to see how New Orleans is rich with music history: jazz and blues."

Alison Cline and Sophie Bui’s finished work!

The "Art Daughter" Bond

Alison Cline was matched with Sophie Bui (Senior, YACS Burmaster). Sophie’s mentor, Roan, spoke of the deep connection formed: "She is my art daughter... every time she has a question and I answer it, she applies it directly to her art in real-time. It makes me proud."

A Legacy of Creation

The impact of these collaborations ripples outward to the families involved. For Jody Watkins, Audrey’s father, seeing his daughter on the Art Live stage felt like a natural progression of their family history. "Creativity is part of the household," Jody said. "I worked in glass, her mother is a professional artist... she’s just carrying it on."

This "pipeline" of creativity—from parent to child, and mentor to student—is exactly what Marguerite Moisio believes helps YALA "survive and thrive".

The Culmination: YALA Gras at the Jazz Museum

In the midst of this several hour long event in 2025 was face painting (long line for that ride!) a sock puppet make and take, a session with a live musician, and a booth with jewelry from Kendra Scott as part of their ongoing Giveback Events. Usually we go to them. But this time they came to us! Plus customers from Urban South joined us. We had a ball!

The journey that began with this amazing canvas of live art family and community culminates in the sophisticated carnival setting YALA intends to create at the New Orleans Jazz Museum this week on Thursday, January 29.

These four collaborative paintings will be the crown jewels of our Live Art Auction. When the gavel falls, the funds raised will go directly toward YALA’s mission of serving 35,000+ students through school performances, afterschool programs, daytime residencies, and community workshops.

Mark Your Calendars for the Full Circle Experience

The Gala: YALA Gras

Join us for a "jazzy new twist" on our traditional fundraiser as we honor Marguerite Moisio. Enjoy fine fare, spirits, live music, and the chance to bid on these one-of-a-kind paintings.

When: January 29, 2026 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM
Where: New Orleans Jazz Museum
Sparkle Raffle: Your ticket is a chance to win a stunning gift from Aucoin Hart!
Tickets: www.ya4la.org/yala-gras

The Creation: YALA Art Live 2026

Experience the magic of the process once again. Bring the whole family for a day of live art, music, and community.

When: April 12, 2026 | 12:00 – 4:00 PM
Where: Urban South Brewery
Featuring: Live painting, YALA Baby ArtsPlay!™ and hands-on activities for all ages.

From Canvas to Carnival: YALA Gras Closes a Full Circle of Creativity