Keith Duncan, Drum Major of NOLA, 2024, Archival Pigment Print, on 100% Cotton Rag Hot Press Paper, Edition of 30, Published by Ogden Museum of Southern Art, Printed by Art of Museums
A part of Arts New Orleans’ mural project, Unframed presented by The Helis Foundation, Duncan created a massive mural of an imaginary New Orleans drum major on the side of Ogden Museum of Southern Art in the winter of 2023. Marching proudly through
the city’s skyline, Drum Major of NOLA is an archetypal figure who represents the collective mission and traditions of all HBCUs and the indomitable spirit of the people of New Orleans.
Dressed in an invented uniform decorated with the fleur-de-lis, the monumental acrobatic drum major additionally symbolizes the vibrant spirit and rich musical traditions synonymous with the city of New Orleans. Set against a highly patterned background,
the allegorical figure alludes to Duncan’s continued engagement with the subjects of HBCU marching bands and musicians. The archetypical drum major (a representation of Black excellence) alludes to the collective mission of all HBCUs to promote Black knowledge production and preserve cultural heritage.
In 2024, Keith Duncan created a painting based upon the same design as the mural. Also titled Drum Major of NOLA, this limited edition print is a reproduction of that painting.
Painted on the exterior of Ogden Museum of Southern Art, the mural can be viewed on the corner of St. Joseph Street and St. Charles Avenue. Learn more about the mural here.