NEW IBERIA, La. --- Congratulations to Lori Buteau, who is joining an esteemed group of local artists, as the creator of the official 2021 World Championship Gumbo Cookoff poster design.
"Over 20 submissions were received this year, and the Greater Iberia Chamber of Commerce is deeply humbled by the amount of effort and creativity that went into each design," said Avery Grubb, chamber marketing and PR manager.
About Lori Buteau:
Buteau is a local school teacher at Westgate High School, where she teaches art. She says she really started to hone her craft in high school, though she’s always been an artistic person.
When she reflects on how it feels to have her work recognized, Buteau says, “It’s as exciting as it is humbling. I’ve been able to express myself creatively and follow the same process that I teach my students. My students have been so supportive and excited for me, and I can’t wait to share this with them.”
Buteau’s family members recall her always having an artistic soul. Her mom remembers iconic artists from the area like George Rodrigue, as she explains how surreal it is to see her daughter join the artistic tapestry that makes up New Iberia and the World Championship Gumbo Cookoff.
About the Poster:
Buteau’s artwork this year features a “gumbo witch” brandishing her roux spoon, her “flying monkeys” (a wood duck and alligator in a flying monkey costume), and of course key elements of New Iberia like the Evangeline Theatre marquee and cane fields.
Buteau says her favorite part of this year’s artwork is, “the crystal ball; everything about this piece screams New Iberia, and the crystal ball really connects it to the Wizard of Roux.”
When asked if she plans to continue participating after winning the grand prize, Buteau made it clear that she does this for fun.
“There’s so many good artists out there, and it’s very competitive. It makes me feel so good that I was chosen, and if anything I’m even more motivated to create something again next year. If you’re considering participating, stick with your gut and what speaks to you in your art.”
The official poster will be available for purchase at the event and will be available for purchase online within the next few days.
About the Gumbo Cookoff:
Buteau and thousands of other gumbo fans will attend the 31st World Championship Gumbo Cookoff on Sat., Oct., 9, and Sun., Oct. 10 at Bouligny Plaza in downtown New Iberia.
Visitors can try as many types of gumbos as their hearts desire and listen to free live music all weekend. Cajun Company, Chubby Carrier and the Bayou Swamp Band, Full Circle, Geno Delafose and French Rockin' Boogie, and Swampland Revival are slated to perform.
