Congo Square 2006

Three-Way Pocky A-Way Big Chief Monk Boudreaux by Richard Thomas  How does one capture - in mere ink and paper - a regal Mardi Gras Indian chief, resplendent in a suit of fine plumage, prismatic beads and exquisite handiwork that turns culture into couture? How does one freeze the driving rhythms that animate Mardi Gras Indians, the font of back-beat, second line New Orleans? Start with an icon; in this case Chief Joseph Pierre "Monk" Boudreaux of the Golden Eagles Tribe. Boudreaux, 64 when this poster was released, occupies the big chief's position of stature and cultural responsibility and has woven his chants into music performed around the world. To create a visual icon representing a culture so unique we called upon Richard Thomas whose energetic fusion, based upon on a photo by Michael P. Smith, New Orleans' premier documentary photographer, succeeds wildly in conveying the dignity, stature and intensity of a Big Chief at the peak of his powers. Thomas manages to both show the