Greek Muses

Greek Muses sculpture commission is about the nine muses of Greek mythology that gave inspiration to the sciences, literature and the arts. The sculpture grouping features Terpsichore (dance), Euterpe (music), Thalia (comedy) and Melpomene (tragedy) and is located in the sculpture gardens surrounding the Jefferson Performing Arts Center.

According to sculptor Kim Bernadas, “The project was for four muses to be sculpted and while it was important for me that they were true to their own personal identity, I also wanted them to interact and relate to each other,” she said. “For example, Terpsichore (dance) and Euterpe (music) flank the walkway and welcome visitors to the performing arts center. But they also have each other in view and are interacting with each other.” JBI spearheaded the drive to erect at least four of the nine Greek muses in the sculpture gardens surrounding the Jefferson Performing Arts Center, which is located at 6400 Airline Drive in Metairie on the edge of LaSalle Park. Organizations affiliated with Jefferson Beautification are the Chateau Estates Garden Club, Palm Vista Garden Club, Shady Oaks Garden Club, Harahan Beautification Commission and Westwego Beautification Commission. 

Greek Muses Sculpture Commission, 2017 – Select Images
Commissioned for Jefferson Performing Arts Center by Jefferson Beautification, Inc

Press

January 2, 2017 “Jefferson Performing Arts Center unveils two ‘muses’ statues,” by Earl Hodges, The Times-Picayune, New Orleans, LA

December 20, 2017 “Jefferson Beautification dedicates muse statues,” The Advocate, New Orleans, LA  

December 17, 2017 “Greek Muse Project,” The Times-Picayune, New Orleans, LA

December 7, 2016 “Around Jefferson: Statues of Greek muses to be unveiled,” by Eva Jacob Barkoff, The Advocate, New Orleans, LA