“Lagniappe” (pronounced LAN-yap) is a Louisiana Creole and New Orleans term meaning “a little something extra.”

It comes from the Spanish word la ñapa, which traders in Latin America used to mean a small bonus item given to customers—like a baker’s dozen. In Louisiana, it carries that same spirit of generosity and delight.

Lagniappe Gallery is located on the sidewalk of Clouet Street, between St. Claude & North Rampart.

We are intentionally not-for-profit, but we believe artists should be compensated for their talent and time. In addition to hosting sidewalk openings, Lagniappe documents each show on our website and will gladly link to any online portfolios. Additionally, we cover shipping and/or printing costs for artwork to be exhibited up to $25 per show.

Our exhibition space is slightly larger than a shoe box. We recommend 2D work smaller than a post card or sculpture that is smaller than 10 inches square.

Although shows are curated and installed with the intention of being seen, in situ, for the duration of the month—there’s no intention of keeping people out of our little white box. Things happen and we’ll let them happen for the sake of this experiment. If you would not want someone taking your artwork or swapping it for their own, this is probably not the place for you to exhibit your art. This is about letting what happens on the sidewalk unfold as it may.

Once your inquiry is received, a member of our team will review your portfolio and contact you. This is a non-commercial passion project, so please be patient with us. If we think you might be a good fit, we’d like to discuss putting on a show together and any special needs for your artwork to be displayed.

We like making art and looking at art. Opening a gallery is an expensive endeavor that often alienates people unused to traditional art spaces. We enjoy seeing the magical things in the Bywater every day, so it seemed like a no-brainer to turn a little extra sidewalk into something that inspires creativity and ideas.

At this time, no. We can attempt to facilitate conversation between Lagniappe artists and interested art lovers to hopefully generate conversation and support, but we aren’t aiming to go down a path of wheeling and dealing.

Doesn’t it feel more fun that you found us on your own, outside of the algorithm? Let’s keep that spirit of accidental discovery alive. Text a friend to meet you at our next opening.