Community leaders gathered on Interstate 49 South Service Road near Sonny’s Audio on Tuesaday morning to celebrateThinking Big, a public art project of the Opelousas Museum which strives to magnify and uplift community
art to a regional scale. This is done by transforming and showcasing images from the Where We Live: Opelousas
Neighborhoods community photo exhibit chose three outstanding photos chosen by a panel of professional
artists, and one was selected by popular vote. Selected images are by Florence Freeman, Bruce Alsandor,
Hernet Hill and Lisa Lewis.
The outdoor art display amplifies striking beauty in everyday moments. It also highlights the artistry of
Opelousas residents and encourages passersby to take the Opelousas exit to visit local sights including the
Opelousas Museum.
The billboard sits on the east side of I49 between Judson Walsh Road and Creswell Lane, visible to drivers
heading from Grand Coteau toward Opelousas on the left.
Florence Freeman’s photo, “Joe Doing What he Loves Best,” features her husband giving a haircut to a
customer; the gaze of the subjects serves as an invitation to step inside this precious moment in time. The
image will remain until the end of July, when a new image will be displayed.
Life-long Opelousas resident Florence Freeman is married with two beautiful daughters. After years of service
for the City of Opelousas, she retired six years ago. Freeman was inspired to submit the photo of Joe Freeman’s
Beauty and Barber Salon to honor this 30-year-old institution. According to Freeman, preserving these images
not only pays tribute to the barbershop’s legacy, but also serves as a gift to future barbers, family and the
community for generations to come.
Thinking Big is supported in part by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural
Development, Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism. The project also receives support from the St.
Landry Parish Tourism Commission as well as the City of Opelousas. The Ribbon Cutting is made possible
through the St. Landry Chamber of Commerce.
The Opelousas Museum is located at 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570.
FMI: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com
