Dr. Bob's Folk Art

Unique art in Bywater. The place is small but interesting

If you enjoy art, a stop at Dr. Bob Art is worth it. Located in Bywater near the railroad tracks, his studio is filled with art of all kinds, using repurposed bottle caps and other items. His famous art are signs that read "Be Kind or Leave." My wife and I picked up a small piece of art for $50. (They take credit cards.) The staff are helpful and very kind.

Just go! Some superb works in here. I love the style. Picked a few very keenly priced smaller works but skys the limit. Our server was super nice, and we chatted loads over WWOZ radio....what more you want? Thanks so much. ❤️👌

"Old school" New Orleans. Home office of iconic artist. Cool place if you want to experience New Orleans' funky artistic side (instead of the cookie cutter corporate sanitized New Orleans).

You will never see a more vibrant painting of the Honey Island Swamp Monster than painted by Dr. Bob’s delicate hand. It’s a little off the beaten path in New Orleans, but if you like weird art this is a can’t-miss. Crass Dr. Bob made the experience all the better.

If you haven't been you must go. His art is unique and funny too!! I love this place, I bought my first piece of art and hope to continue adding to my collection!!

Dr.Bob's abstract art made of repurposed materials are unique and vibrant. He has a wide selection and something for everyone. The only thing preventing me from giving him 5 stars was that his business is cash only and I had limited cash on me.

Very unique local art. Worth going out of the way for. Located around the corner from a number of thrift shops, cafes, record stores, and the nicest park in the city.

If you enjoy art, a stop at Dr. Bob Art is worth it. Located in Bywater near the railroad tracks, his studio is filled with art of all kinds, using repurposed bottle caps and other items. His famous art are signs that read "Be Kind or Leave." My wife and I picked up a small piece of art for $50. (They take credit cards.) The staff are helpful and very kind.

If you're the type of person who would see the exterior of Dr Bob Art! and just walk on by without wishing to explore, I don't think you're my type of person. In no way is this a place that merits you go out of your way but I really think you should. Go out of your way. "Dr Bob Art!" is a nice long stroll that'll get you out of the French Quarter for a bit. Outside, there's plenty of things to pique your interest and cause you to wonder what's inside. Inside is where you can find Dr Bob's artwork, all available for purchase. Colorful and direct, Dr Bob has outlived the primitive origins of his work. He's actually a quite accomplished "self-taught" artist whose work is well executed and either whimsical or thought-provoking depending on the piece and your background. Dr Bob's signature phrase, splashed on much of his work, is "Be Nice or Leave" which seems like a mantra for our times. I enjoyed Dr Bob Art! and Dr Bob's art. I purchased nothing but was glad I made a little time to explore here. All of that whimsy outside? I couldn't just walk on by.

Enjoyed our "by chance" trip to Dr. Bob art. As we were walking to our dinner spot we stoped at Dr. Bob's shop. Dr. Bob shared many stories about his art as well as the history on some of his pieces. He is a true gem of New Orleans. A must visit if you love funky and abstract art or even if you don't! Just go! So glad to have a piece of history in our home.

The artwork of Dr. Bob -- Bob Shaffer -- can be found all over New Orleans. His trademark "Be Nice or Leave" permeates the entire area. It's such a simple concept but one that carries great meaning. It was interesting to see one of Dr. Bob's pieces at Willie Mae's Scotch House restaurant. One of his designs appears on a T-shirt sold by the New Orleans Police Departmetn's 8th District. I bought a piece that says "Shut Up and Eat Gumbo," along with "Be Nice or Leave." Great memento of my trip to New Orleans.

Dr Bob's art a down home New Orleans must see. On our many visits to New Orleans we always see out at least one visit to Dr Bob's. You will not regret it!

I have passed Dr. Bob Art for yeeeeeears living in this town but am always headed somewhere else when I think about stopping by. On Twelfth Night I was down the street eating King Cake and thought, heck, let's finally go check it out! The large red building really builds up the anticipation! A long, looming wall of red and big exciting signs 'pointing this way!!!' get you in the mood to check out some weird stuff and killer local art. Once inside, there's a big, gravel lot, lots of parking and more signs. 'THIS WAY!' So I follow the signs....to a tiny little gallery housed inside the interior of a huge, deceiving complex. Like my friends commented, you haven't been to many roadside attractions have you? Womp womp.

How have I not reviewed this gem? I am shocked. I am in love with this place. If you are in need of something eclectic for your home or a gift for someone, this is your place. Located in the Marigny, there is plenty of parking. Friendly employees. Reasonable prices. Great place!

Awesome place to check out during the day. Its completely free to wander around the lot and check out the fun art. take a peak inside and see some of dr bobs creations. prices are reasonable for the art - no min for a credit card. myself and my friend each took a piece home. funky stuff, can be a good way to kill some time while in the bywater.

My house rules & words to live by: Be Nice or Leave! Filled with funky folk art, silly signs, and a wealth of photo ops, Dr. Bob's Art Studio is a great place to shop for some Dr. Bob Art and get a real life taste of 9th Ward Cul-cha at it's finest. You can buy original art at reasonable prices. You can talk with the artist and hear some fantastic stories while you shop. His studio is on the back end of a huge industrial yard that is shared with a few other businesses. Enter the fence from Chartres and go towards the back right hand side.

Awesome, authentic, special place. Dr. Bob was there to greet us the tell us all about his art. Totally worth checking out.

Be Nice or Leave! That may be Dr. Bob's most popular phrase, but his work is much more than that. My first exposure to Dr. Bob was back in the early 90s. Back then I was a very young and impressionable kid who had never seen, or even heard of folk art. Back then I began working at a local music venue where the walls were covered in these crazy cool pieces of art. Imagine my surprise when I learned that one of the artists was a regular and one of the most laid back, cool characters you could ever meet. That artist was Dr. Bob and he hasn't changed a bit. Dr. Bob Art is not your traditional art gallery. It is located in a industrial area and the gallery itself is a giant warehouse. His larger more expensive pieces adorn the walls and the smaller more reasonable ones are towards the middle of the building. I really would love his giant turtle for my office, but it was a bit out of my price range. Even though I didn't buy anything on this trip I did appreciate getting to see all that was on display. If you're a lover of folk art I strongly recommend you visit this gallery. In addition to the art on display, you are likely to run in to Dr. Bob himself. If you do, take the opportunity to talk with him. That experience is usually as rewarding as the art itself.

I had always seen Dr. Bob's art all over New Orleans, but it wasn't until a friend and I did a post lunch pop in, that I knew that he had an actual studio. If you are looking for New Orleans folk art, Dr. Bob is pretty much the "go to". In this small studio you can find paintings and signs of all types. In fact, until Simon came along, you would see Dr. Bob's art in every restaurant and bar in the area. You can find art for pretty cheap here (under $50) and he has bigger, more expensive pieces, if you are looking for something like that. He also does custom work, so if there is something that you have in mind, sit down with him and he will be happy to collaborate with you. Dr. Bob also works Jazz Fest every year and sells his work there, if you don't want to venture to Chartres.

I really love Dr. Bob's artwork. "Be nice or leave" is such a a simple and effective phrase. The smallest pieces are $35 if you pay cash, $40 credit. I got a great Shut Up and Drink sign. You'll also see quite a few works that reference a Confederacy of Dunces. The best part about going to Bob's studio is Bob himself. He's a master story teller, and while he will take up an hour of your time or more if you don't insist on leaving, it's worth it. He's a friendly, interesting man who can tell you a lot about New Orleans. Out of everything I did while in Louisiana this was one of my favorite experiences.

Let's be honest, part of the appeal of visiting whacky N'walins is that it's filled with kooky characters...and Dr. Bob could be at the top of that King cake. As you stroll a wee bit off the beaten path into the upcoming Bywater hood (and you should), you're likely to pass Dr. Bob's compound (just look for the "Be Nice Or Leave" sign) on the main drag. As you step inside, a couple things you're guaranteed to experience... 1. Crazy yarns spun by Dr Bob himself peppered with colorful, salty language...make sure to ask about his Katrina experience 2. Fantastic, equally colorful local artwork for sale that you'll have likely seen featured in area bars & restaurants...and wiggle room pricing 3. Plenty of recommendations for good food n drink No trip is complete without a visit to the Dr!

you ain't New Orleans if you ain't got Dr Bob artwork. Be Nice or Leave and Don't Sell Cats Here...... The Dr Bob Warehouse has something for everyone and the rudimentary pieces will surely put you in a playful, happy mood. Ranging from $30 - $250 you can put an iconic piece in your home or office and give a distinctly New Orleans highlight to your surroundings.

Yahoo!! I finally own a Dr. Bob original~ (Besides a "Be Nice or Leave" small sign.) Bought at his "compound" in NOLA. Never even thought I cared for folk art that much - but I love love love my Catahoula Hound. Dr. Bob is so interesting - very hospitable - entertaining - and a real personality.

Truth....this isn't my style of Art but I can appreciate it and enjoy it for the sake of others who do. You see Dr. Bob's influence all over New Orleans so it seems familiar and connected to the experience of the city. The trek out to Bywater is fun via bike and the scrap yard of a gallery makes it unique as well. The young lady running the shop was inviting, easy going, and offered some general background. My friend was super psyched and was committed to purchasing a piece from an artist that she enjoyed and respected. Dr. Bob was actually in the building and was wandering around but didn't seem to show interest in any interaction. My friend had read and heard that he was quite notorious for chatting up customers and fans of his work. After much deliberation she purchased a (3 figure $$$) piece. On our way out she went to thank him (Ironic I thought as she made a purchase from him) and he snubbed her. He ignored her statement, scolded his dog for barking, and then said, "I gotta lot to do". In my best screw you voice I said to him, "yeah, don't fall behind". F*@k you ya dink!! This girl was so excited to own a piece of your work and has long admired the crap you create. A smile and a wave would have been sufficient. The gimmick you sell is 'Be Nice or Leave' ?? The whole paradox is nauseating and I wanted to take the stupid dry wood covered in bottle caps and chuck it at you.

I barely ever write reviews...what's the point? But when I saw that Dr. Bob has 3 and a half stars overall, and that some... really, really delightful indivldual wrote a one-star review because the announced hours didn't match up with his/her experience... I had to chime in to tip the scales in the correct direction. First off, if you come to the workspace and gallery of a local folk artist, and your expectations are in line with the workspace and gallery of a local folk artist, you will be TOTALLY SATISFIED. It's great. The place is spacious. Dr. Bob is usually there and can't help but tell stories on repeat. The small pieces are $30, and the bigger ones are more. Know what you're coming to see and enjoy it.

Dr Bob is first class. we were in Elizabeth, a local awesome restaurant and noticed the cool art work posted throughout. My daughter who lives in New Orleans said the artist showroom was nearby. we decided to stop in and were immediately awed by the scene. it is a very laid-back art filled yard and showroom. The art is classic folk art. Get there soon to collect this very cool original stuff of Dr. Bob. On our first trip we were greeted by Dr. Bob's dog, Blue who was freely wandering around. Dr Bob told us the amazing story of Blue. Blue was chained up in front of a house, he was neglected and abused. There was a sign advertising a car for sale at the house Dr Bob called the number and requested a meeting at a nearby place to buy the car. When the dog abuser left the house to meet up, Doc rescued Blue, Blue is now a very happy pup. Great place, we bought some art. we will return.

Dr. Bob is one of NOLA's wonderful cast of characters. I love everything he does. I used to hang out at his shop a lot when I still lived in the Bywater. Bring him your bottle caps if you can!

Interesting place. Not sure many people would make the trek out to the Upper 9th but it's worth stopping by if you're in the area. Many of the restaurants and shops in NOLA sport works of art by Dr. Bob so it was kind of interesting to see his "lab". The help was nice enough. They've got some quirky signs outside saying to "be nice or leave" and other various things. It definitely felt like the beginning of a horror movie in which the tourists stop at a place that looks like a warehouse with some interesting locals and next thing you know they're artwork. It didn't help that you could hear Dr. Bob upstairs banging on things and dropping giant things of metal from the 2nd story onto the floor. Still, it was an interesting experience (albeit a bit unnerving). *Note* Dr. Bob preaches, "Be nice or leave" in all his artwork. However, he did not seem that amicable. Also, his artwork seemed overpriced. Then again, doesn't all artwork seem overpriced?

Dr. Bob is a local artist/character in the Bywater part of town. You'll see his stuff all over NOLA these days and for a lot of money considering your getting funky folk art that is pretty much all a formula these days. He's a crusty interesting guy and has a crew of equally interesting studio assistants who have literally made a career out of one solid catch phrase. If you like his work, this is the only place to get it, you'll save yourself a considerable mark up by buying it here. If nothing else, its an entertaining place to visit and there is usually something for everyone here. Word of advice, if you drive in here, the gate to the interior chain link only appears locked, you have to reach inside the gate to turn the door knob and let yourself in.

I came here twice in one week. The first time there was a huge sign that said "open" and a little sign that said be back at 10:30. It was way past 10:30. We were uncertain so my boyfriend rang the bell. The lady that answered rudely just pointed to the sign said nothing and shut the door. I had really wanted to come buy some local art so I decided to give it one more chance before I left. Again we were greeted by the same lady this time a little nicer. She seemed like she genuinely cared about our visit but she really just wanted probe to find out if we were staying at an air bnb so she could accuse us of robbing New Orleans of their taxes. During our stay we ONLY supported local businesses. We donated money to a battered women's shelter and we gave money to the Katrina Exhibit. I came to Dr bobs to spend some money but after meeting her I decided to spend it somewhere else. Maybe you should look around and practice what you preach.

Just purchased Gus the Gator from a gallery in Vicksburg MS. Art is in the eye of the beholder. He fits right in with internationally known works by Jerry Allen. It's not how much you pay, it's how it makes you feel. Dr Bob lightens my day. Sam

We met Dr. Bob in 2006 while at "Kentuck" folk art festival. We really enjoyed meeting him and talking with him! And of course loved his art! We purchased 2 of his pieces then and have loved having them all these years...While in NOLA a couple of weeks ago for a conference, I decided to find his gallery/studio and make a visit. While he wasn't there that day, it was a neat experience seeing his gallery. It is a very laid back space that was not in any of the touristy areas of NOLA-called "Bywater". It's in a warehouse type area, and I had a great time browsing his art for over an hour. It's a very "chill" and unassuming space. The salesperson was kind and informative and just very friendly. She let me take all the photos I wanted of the art and the "gallery" so I could share them with my husband once I returned home. I purchased another "Dr. Bob" piece of art for my collection! If you love a real folk artist, you have to check out Dr. Bob!!! And if you already know about him, go check out his gallery while in NOLA-it's off the beaten path but well worth it!

Cool fun place. Dr bob is very hospitable, and genuine to chat with visitors. Lots of neat art, different, eclectic - that's why it's cool. U don't have to buy the art, just stop by to check it out. It seems other posters are a bit rough on Dr Bobs with 2 & 3 stars. Lighten up y'all. It's art. Just appreciate it even if u don't buy it or like it. You're not buying Picasso's for millions of dollars either, so if you don't like the art then just don't buy it, but don't complain about it either. This is a fun and unique New Orleans place.

Great local art, those that review it poorly, are simply too ignorant to understand the message/theme. Dr. Bob is not trying to compete with monet or some other fine art. it is what it is, have a drink and enjoy the moment. life is too short for uptight art bigots !