Adore April 2022

Collin Ferguson and Catherine Todd CARROLLTON | EAST CARROLLTON Co-Founders of Where y'Art Works whereyartworks.com

W hile Catherine is from New Orleans and Collin is "of" New Orleans (she graduated from Tulane), the founders of Where y'Art Works found their way back to the city after years away. Following a chance meeting, they formed their platform for local artists in 2013 and combined their unique experiences and skills to support and elevate these creatives. What began as an online shopping tool has evolved into a full-service art consulting company, connecting organizations, individuals, and local artists in communities across the country while continuing to preserve and further the culture of New Orleans. WHY NEW ORLEANS? Collin: After living abroad and traveling to different parts of the world, I realized that many of the things I loved about those places are things that reminded me of New Orleans. The creative culture here allows me to be perfectly who I am and be accepted here for all the facets of my personal and professional life. Protecting the culture of New Orleans is tied directly to protecting the culture that has given me so much. Catherine: New Orleans is home. I've left New Orleans twice and found my way back both times. There's a magnetic draw to this city. It appeals to the dark and light in all of us. The cycle of life constantly swings from one extreme to the other. Living in New Orleans means understanding this. BIGGEST INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK? Collin: Getting to know the 200 or so artists that we work with has been the most inspiring part of starting this business. Artists are such interesting people and getting to understand their creative process, inspirations, and personalities is incredibly rewarding. FAVORITE PART ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? Catherine: Working with an amazing team of women, talented artists, and community-driven organizations that believe local art has the power to improve lives, enrich culture, and create a more inclusive place for all.

FAVORITE WAY TO SPEND A SUNDAY AFTERNOON? Collin: Anything outdoors. Crawfish boils, festivals, porch concerts, oysters on a patio, and pool days all make the list. Catherine: Sunday is all about the reset. Binge watching movies, bubble baths, and time on the sofa snuggling with my dog.

FAVORITE QUOTE? Collin: "Not all who wander are lost."

Catherine: "Your artist's journey is unique to you. You alone are on your path. Your job is only to follow it and be true to it… The artist's journey is the hero's journey of the human race." Steven Pressfield

ADORE • APRIL 2022

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