OffBeat contributing photographer, Kim Welsh is one of three featured visual artists showing new works in a June 12 art opening at an unlikely gallery space, the Crescent City Brew House. The walls of the upstairs lounge of the popular Decatur Street pub in the French Quarter will be decked with paintings from Mardiclaw and photography from Welsh and Rick Moore for the opening soiree, while complimentary beer and light food fare will be provided during the opening reception from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Welsh is a seasoned Louisiana photographer who has been chronicling New Orleans’ rich music and food culture for OffBeat Magazine for several years, among other outlets. She is known for much of her live music shots as well as colorful, emotional portraits of the city’s second line culture. Kim notes that photography is a passion and would do it whether she is paid or not.

Of her photo [left], several New Orleans writers and filmmakers have remarked:

“Look at all the second-liners. Everybody’s got their own little take, their own little move, their own way of swiveling that ankle, just the way everybody has their own way of cooking red beans. We’re very lucky. It’s a precious and irreplaceable and rare experience to be part of a community where the sense of belonging comes from really being yourself.” – Tom Piazza, author of “City of Refuge”

Or even:

“The second line is so much more than a religion or an obsession or a cult even. Simply put, it’s soul medicine. Whatever harsh realities life deals you through the week, a good ole four-hour long second line parade will burn that poison right on out of you.” – Big Red Cotton, New Orleans Good Good

Welsh’s show mates are each known for local culture tales of their own; Claudia “Mardiclaw” for her “Day of the Dead” illustrations in paint, and Rick Moore for his concert photography. The trio’s collections will be on view at the Crescent City Brew House from June 12 through July 7.

More Info:

Mardiclaw, Moore & Welsh Art Show
Opening Reception: Wednesday, June 12
Location: Crescent City Brew House
527 Decatur St.  (map)
Neighborhood:  French Quarter
Time: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. with complimentary beer and food
On View through Sunday, July 7