StudioBE

Art gallery · Bywater

StudioBE

Art gallery · Bywater

5

2941 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70117

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StudioBE by Linda Xiao
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StudioBE by Linda Xiao
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Highlights

In a vibrant Bywater warehouse, Studio Be showcases Brandan 'BMike' Odums' massive murals that celebrate Black culture, history, and resilience.  

Featured in Eater
Featured in Conde Nast Traveler

2941 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70117 Get directions

studiobenola.com
@studio_be_

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2941 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70117 Get directions

+1 504 252 0463
studiobenola.com
@studio_be_
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@studiobenola

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Jul 30, 2025

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@eater

The Best Super Bowl LIX Events in New Orleans - Eater New Orleans

"Food festival with live performances and iconic New Orleans restaurants." - Clair Lorell

https://nola.eater.com/2025/1/27/24345401/super-bowl-lix-food-drink-events-new-orleans
View Postcard for StudioBE
@eater

LA’s Family Style Fest Is Coming to New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX - Eater New Orleans

"A prominent art studio in New Orleans owned by visual artist Brandan 'BMIKE' Odums, hosting the Family Style Food Festival." - Clair Lorell

https://nola.eater.com/2025/1/27/24352964/family-style-festival-coolest-super-bowl-lix-event-new-orleans
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@cntraveler

The 23 Best Things to Do in New Orleans

"This studio—in a huge warehouse space in the Bywater neighborhood—showcases the work of local artist Brandon Odums (aka BMike). He specializes in large-scale murals and paintings illustrating scenes from black culture in the city, black leaders and icons; the exhibits show off the whole range of Odum’s talent, with mixed media pieces including sculpture and video. The real stars of the show—and the works for which he is most famous—are the floor-to-ceiling portraits." - Paul Oswell

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-new-orleans
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@cntraveler

Studio Be

"So, what’s this place about?The studio—in a huge warehouse space in the Bywater neighborhood—showcases the work of local artist Brandon Odums (also known as BMike). He specializes in large-scale murals and paintings illustrating scenes from black culture in the city and black cultural leaders and icons. That sounds cool. How’s the space?It’s a warehouse space, so it’s best visited when the weather is comfortable. The layout and lighting shows off these impressively scaled and rendered works to their full effect, and without too much foot traffic passing through, you're free to move around in relative comfort. The art’s the main thing, of course. How is it?The exhibits show off the whole range of Odum’s talent, with mixed media pieces including sculpture and video, but the real stars of the show—and the works for which he is most famous—are the floor-to-ceiling portraits. I’m interested. At the end of the day, what—or who—is this place best for?The gallery is an inspiring example of community art and a real breath of fresh air compared to the relative stuffiness of some galleries in the official "art" districts. It will reward people ready to explore beyond the main commercial art drags, especially fans of street art, black culture, and truly awe-inspiring, large-scale portraiture." - Paul Oswell

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/new-orleans/studio-be
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@goop

"Artist Brandan Odums (aka BMike) has made his 35,000-square-foot studio in the Bywater an ode to African American legends like Martin Luther King, Jr., Harriet Tubman, and Malcolm X. These spray-painted murals take up entire walls that rise as high as twelve feet, providing social commentary, inspiration, and an education to the studio’s visitors from Odums’s point of view. "

The New Orleans Guide
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Garmanne Mack

Google
We stumbled on this gem Saturday after having brunch at Justini’s. The exhibits are amazing. It is un air conditioned building as advised in their information. A fan and some cold water will help you make it through. On our walk over we saw all the outdoor art that some might consider as graffiti but this is truly art. Go visit. Here are just a few of the exhibits.

Tasha Whitaker

Google
Great experience, went on a weekday it wasn't packed but a few people were there. The host was knowledge and helpful. No drinks allowed inside, there isn't any air condition in the exhibit. There is an all- gender air conditioned clean restroom up front. This exhibit is great, powerful pieces and documentation of pieces from katrina,the arts and prominent figures of black culture. Definitely check this out!

Danyelle

Google
StudioBe is an absolute treasure in New Orleans! From the moment I walked in, I was struck by the powerful energy of the space and the artistry on display. The large-scale murals and vivid storytelling in every piece were breathtaking. It’s not just an art gallery—it’s a deeply immersive experience that celebrates Black culture, resilience, and history in such a profound way. The staff was welcoming and knowledgeable, offering insights into the artists’ intentions and the stories behind the works. I felt both inspired and moved throughout my visit. If you’re in NOLA, StudioBe is a must-see destination. Give yourself time to really soak it all in—you won’t regret it. Thank you, StudioBe, for creating such an impactful space. I’ll definitely be back on my next visit!

natalie bessios

Google
Visited on Sunday. It was filled with artwork. I would go back! It tells a story from the moment you walk in. The living while black experience. The way the government treats poverty, displaces and condemns the simplest measures taken to uplift a people is mind-blowing..... And still you shoot slash paint flowers!!!!!

Nicola Parker

Google
This studio is simply AMAZING! The artist, did and does a wonderful job with his work!

Andrew Smith

Google
Every person should visit here as part of visiting New Orleans and learning about Black culture and history. Powerful, moving, and important.

Kyra Lehrman

Google
We went as a student group, and it was marvelous. We showed our student IDs and got in for free (which is on Wednesdays) . Amazing powerful art

Alex Lovett

Google
Home of the legendary street artist bmike here you can see some of the huge and powerful murals as well as read the history of how he painted the projects post Katrina. This is a working studio as well with a great gift shop.
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Ike A.

Yelp
Studio Be in New Orleans is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience powerful art and local history. We stopped by on a Saturday and were blown away by the beautiful, thought-provoking works of BMike. The way he captures and displays the rich culture and history of New Orleans is remarkable, with numerous quotes on the walls that really inspired me. The entire space feels like a celebration of excellence and resilience. The only downside was a few roof leaks that created puddles in some areas, but it didn't take away from the overall experience. I look forward to returning!

Latoya D.

Yelp
Nice space. Thought provoking art. I went during Kwanzaa and they had a Kwanzaa presentation and community market.
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Sydney W.

Yelp
LOVED the all gender restrooms. Made me feel safe so thank you for that! This was a great showcase of amazing and impactful work.
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Austin G.

Yelp
If you have an hour or two, Studio Be is worth a visit. Run by one of the country's most prominent muralists, the mural-painted building is an exhibit space with BMike's art (and a few other artists) presented in a way that builds empathy for Black America and opens your eyes to the lack of equity in the U.S. It's $15 per person unless you're from Louisiana, a student, and a few other categories.
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Alexis M.

Yelp
Studio Be Founder Brandan "BMike" Odums created Studio Be in 2016. Studio Be is in New Orleans, and it is an uninsulated warehouse that serves as an artists space / art gallery. Studio Be is about a 20-minute walk from the New Orleans Jazz Museum, and we enjoyed traveling there by foot on that beautifully weathered day. We knew that we were approaching Studio Be as we saw the infamous artwork entitled "Light House" that is on the front of the yellow brightly-colored warehouse. When you walk inside, you first come into contact w/ the gift shop that also is the entrance. The admission fee was paid, and we were provided information before going into the actual gallery. Beautiful exhibits, murals, and other various forms of artwork are everywhere in this space. We were in awe - such gorgeously displayed masterpieces! We saw the following exhibits: "Ephemneral. Eternal" - Exhibit consists Studio Be Founder Brandan"BMike" Odums independent artwork. He was actually there on the property that day, and I observed busily working around the art space. "Radical Freedom Dream" - Exhibit that is based on ideas that developed into artistic masterpieces from students ages 8-18. Such thought-provoking art derived from intelligent & talented students. Complimentary water is on the premises, and that day that we visited, there were multiple large fans turned on in an attempt to cool down the space. "Family Ties," "Black Body," & other popular art / posters are available for purchase. Studio Be's quaint gift shop also has shirts, stickers, buttons, etc. Hours of Operation - Tues - Sat. 2pm - 8pm Sun. - 2pm.- 6pm Admission - General ($15), Students (other than on Wednesdayss), First Responders & Military ($10), Children ages 5-12 ($5) & Childern under 5 (free). Admission is free on Wednesdays for Louisiana Residents, Students & Educators. Website - studiobenola.com General Inquiries - info@studiobenola.com
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Kate G.

Yelp
Take the time to visit StudioBE and experience the extraordinary art and artivism that MikeB has brought to life in this amazing space in the Bywater neighborhood of Nola. We will be back to support this art as social change and racial justice project.
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Kareem A.

Yelp
This is a must-visit exhibition in New Orleans. One of the best I've seen anywhere. It's clear that the artist has a strong and complex understanding of the Black American experience and the imagery is stunning. Definitely visit and support his exhibition.
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Mieko Y.

Yelp
Powerful, impactful and thought-provoking pieces in an expansive space with a critical mission. A must visit if you are in New Orleans. Well worth the $15 admission (discounts for students, teachers, elders, first responders, military and social workers). Children 12 and under have a $5 admission and children 5 and under can enter for free.
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Pamela M.

Yelp
I really enjoyed my tour with Studio Be and I recommend checking it for a change of pace form other tour types! It's an exploration in modern art but there's a lot of history behind the modern art surrounding the plights of the black and brown sisters and brothers who are our relatives and who are us, we just differ in shades. This is important history and even if you don't understand what it might be like to be born a different pigment, we should still listen and learn. It's interesting, it happened, we oughta know. It's our American history. The tour guide was great and passionate about the subject matter, and of course very knowledgeable. We started outside at some art on the buildings and in parks then moved inside to see more art there. You will learn about the founder and about things that took place recent decades ago. I'm sure they will keep adding as history continues to be made every day. I liked the arcade games reconstructed as art. It's a modern take on what art is or can be. If traditional isn't your thing (or if it is and you're looking to mix it up) definitely come check out this exhibit when in eclectic NOLA -- there's really no other city quite like New Orleans, LA!!! There is also a small gift shop, too!
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Courtney B.

Yelp
I came with a companion last weekend on a quick dash through NOLA. We came here as part of a desire to see more of the local artists work first-hand. Studio Be is home to local artist, Brandan 'Bmike' Odums' first solo project. The visual art housed in this 35,000 sq. ft. warehouse here are are mainly brightly-colored, wall-sized murals that depict historical figures, contemporary creatives, and everyday people. In much of the artist figurative work, he departs from realism to play with color and allows visitors to see a new reality of possibility through pastels. Personally, this was a very emotional experience that I am thankful to have had. The murals depicted here make the visitor "feel something" which is truly what art is supposed to do. In general, this space was full of thought provoking conceptual art pieces which my companion and I will continue to think about more deeply. The art included in the gallery was complex and powerfully portrayed. #supportblackart #supportlocal
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Hunter S.

Yelp
BMike is an internationally known artist whose preferred medium is spray paint. He has completed several huge murals all over the country and the world. His work generally focuses on social justice, black lives, the struggle for equality and equity, and black excellence. This is a space that showcases his work from many stages in his career. Many pieces are colorful and focus on black joy. Many focus on issues black people face every day: police brutality, incarceration, violence, inequity in education. The pieces are deep, poignant, and beautiful. It's only 15 dollars to tour this meaningful and important space. The staff is helpful and kind. This isn't in the touristy part of New Orleans--a couple of miles out of the quarter. But worth a stop.
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Nic H.

Yelp
I've visited StudioBe countless times and it never gets old. Every trip brings out a different emotion and I'll never grow tired of going. Spend time with each exhibit and really take in the meaning behind them. In addition to visiting the warehouse often, I also have one of the signed archival prints in my home and plan to purchase another. Studio Be is more than art, it is an experience that you shouldn't miss.
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Jamila C.

Yelp
We make it a priority to visit Studio Be each and every time we come to New Orleans to pay respects to BMike, the artist who continues to create the most impactful art with historical and current day context using various mediums. Some of the installations we have seen on previous visits remain in the studio but are still quite emotionally captivating. On our first visit several years ago, BMike was also walking about, engaging with visitors. His art is an important source of healing and is an educational tool for all ages. Whenever you are in NOLA, hop in an Uber and come check out his work.
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Kirklind N.

Yelp
Beautiful immersive art gallery nestled in the quiet area of the city. Vibrant colors perfect for instagram pictures. I would recommend taking your time to enjoy the artist work and not just taking pictures of the floor to ceiling art installations!
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Lesley F.

Yelp
This place did not disappoint. The art highlighted at this studio is so vibrant and powerful. It's worth a visit. The area around the studio is filled with street art...all of which is powerful and empowering to marginalized voices.
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Courtney B.

Yelp
An AMAZING studio. With powerful, beautiful pieces. We had a great experience visiting the studio and taking in the essence.
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Deloney D.

Yelp
This was even more awesome than I imagined when I read about it. Such phenomenal, meaningful art, by such a gifted and phenomenal artist! There were murals and graffiti on the walls leading to the studio and all around the outside. You can take pictures but no flash photography inside. My husband and I are veterans. So we got a military discount. The entry fee is so small. The art really is beautiful and educational all at once. My biggest disappointment was that there were no prints that I could buy on the spot available in the store. A few of the large murals had QR codes to go in and order prints but it would have been nice to buy some right then.
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Hunny E.

Yelp
Love it here. The art is amazing and the staff are super knowledgeable and courteous.
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Lorena C.

Yelp
One of the many nice things abt Studio BE is that school tours happen in the daytime when the museum is closed. Late afternoon hours compliment the desire for a Nola breeze bc you're depending on fans to keep cool in this living warehouse. I first went here bc I saw the art for me and the door was open. That was five years ago. Some of the exhibits are different and the back is really a whole new vibe. Atlanta knows B for his mural of TwoChains sun, down by Escobar. But I will forever love how Brandan Odums' portraits, words and past feel timeless, soulful and present. Liz, our guide, was very knowledgeable, organized and kind since we started planning--which can be tricky bc everything is done online; the phone is just a recording. The history, love, beauty and powerful Black stories of New Orleans are masterfully woven with respect and heart of the whole New Orleans community. A collaboration of artists to the delight of all who visit. An experience not to be missed.
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Darryl B.

Yelp
What an awesome collection of beautiful art that captures the core of black history. The experience was priceless
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QueenDivaChanel 5.

Yelp
Hubby and I added Studio B as one of our tourist spots. What a great choice. Beautiful Art work and lots of information.
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Dominic D.

Yelp
Art was great and the tour guide gave us an amazing tour and explained everything very well.
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Jonah H.

Yelp
Stumbled upon the amazing art filled warehouse. Strong emotion inspired art and music. Got there late and ran out of time. Would definitely go back and take more time here.
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Nicole W.

Yelp
You have got to make this a requirement for your New Orleans trip. Get off Bourbon st and actually see some of the local culture. Studio Be is a superb space filled with truth, hurt, pain, love, and growth. B-Mike is an incredible artist who uses so many unique techniques. Every room I found myself saying "wow". The $10 fee is well worth it! Fyi, it's a warehouse so it's pretty hot in there. They have fans you can use, but you'll still be sweating. Just accept it and bask in the amazing art and stories being told.
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British C.

Yelp
This review as long overdue. While I was in New Orleans I got to check out studio Be. The atmosphere combined with the many paintings, graphic art, & projects on display create such a gravitating and humbling experience. Some of the quotes associated with the art from prominent African Americans who paved the way for me will forever be etched in my mind. I hope everyone gets a chance to experience this amazing place.
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Julie D.

Yelp
I'm going to keep this short because this is an experience best done in person. This spot is a must when you're in New Orleans. No if's, ands or butts. You have to make the time to come here. It's not that far from the French quarter, but definitely that it's not walking distance. You have to experience it in person to fully appreciate its beauty. Every piece is so powerful. I found myself taking several seats and exploring each piece one by one and really taking the time to examine the details. The collection is revolving I'm assuming because some pieces ends up getting sold. Probably to Beyoncé. Mike executed this collection perfectly. He truly is a gift to us all.
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Kim S.

Yelp
I can't stop talking about how much I enjoyed this place. It's nothing short of beautiful/amazing! I love it here from the surroundings outside & walking inside. What an awesome place to BE! My children seemed to enjoy it as well & the art sparked many conversation from my 9yr old.
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Juliet H.

Yelp
I'm SO obsessed with Studio Be that I drag anyone in my company to view this ever-evolving exhibit. The art is powerful and is SO relevant and socially aware! If you're in NOLA, this spot must be on your to-do list, it's that good! Aside from the amazing art, I enjoy shopping in their gift shop. Great pieces and fun things to take home.
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Betty N.

Yelp
Giant, Glorious, Heart Filling art that moves the soul and makes you think deeply... BMike Odom created a unique art experience that teaches, agitates, calms, and inspires. Curation of exhibits is genius. Go see this place!
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Harish V.

Yelp
Well the place is closed for christmas but there are some murals outside the building which are pretty good. Great for photoshoots. I would definitely love to visit the studio in future.
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Tiffany L.

Yelp
Amazing, this visual artist and the work here is absolutely extraordinary. Because this is a museum , you have to be here present in the moment . Very powerful Pieces that when I say are worth far more than a thousand words , this is a must
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Bree M.

Yelp
B Mike is an amazing artist. There hasn't been a single time that I have attended Studio Be and have not felt completely embraced by the art.
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Theresa M.

Yelp
If you like large scale art with powerful social messages, StudioBe is for you. The warehouse it is housed in is huge and really adds to the experience. The neighborhood itself has a lot of history and art and is really interesting to explore. Note there is a $10 entrance fee, but they offer discounts to students and teachers.
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Vicki R.

Yelp
Amazing experience. Amazing art. Amazing history. This was a must for me to do this visit to New Orleans. I have done the french quarter , bourbon street, etc. but I haven't visited any art galleries. I first saw this featured on queen sugar. I thought it was very interested and looked more into its history. I'm sharing a few pics from my experience but it's a must do if you're ever in New Orleans.
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Bobby H.

Yelp
This studio was fire. Seeing so much talent was amazing. I went in March 2021, so we got to see alot of work from the year prior regarding social injustice. You could definitely feel the emotions in the room and get into the artwork. HIGHLY recommend anyone to go. You will learn a lot and really feel in tune with the artists.
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Juniper E.

Yelp
This was a powerful experience. Thought provoking, moving, inspiring! We were in New Orleans for the weekend during MLK Day and this by far was the most meaningful way we have ever observed that day in our lives. We learned a lot but were also very challenged & moved by the exhibits as well. Brandan BMike Odums is an important artist telling the story of our nation that everyone needs to hear. These works helped me to lament but also to move forward and left me inspired to lead with love. I am so glad I could see his works in person. Raw & beautiful! Highly recommend going!!
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Wanda W.

Yelp
The artwork at studio B will touch your heart very genius, young man this is a must see for all black people whenever you're in New Orleans make it your business visit studio B
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Teach 1.

Yelp
WOW! The work is fabulous! We visited Studio BE after JAMNOLA (block away). I look forward to coming back with my family. Powerful and empowering works of ART. The young men in charge were very courteous! Thanks for a Beautiful experience:)
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Owen R.

Yelp
I would definitely suggest a visit beyond the French quarter if in New Orleans. Studio B is a impressive collection of spray and art. It is well worth the $10 admission. It is warm inside, be prepared for the heat.
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Margie A.

Yelp
This studio is so dope, that it was even featured on Ava DeVernay & Oprah's show "Queen Sugar." I was just catching up on that show and was reminded that I needed to let folks know to check this place out. This is community art at its finest. I was told by a local to go while visiting Nola & am really glad I did. It's about 5 years old now so it's a little worn but still a meaningful experience. There is mixed media so 3D art, video, & interactive installations, but the show stoppers are the floor to warehouse-ceiling paintings of people in the black community. Some of the people are famous for civil rights, sports & music and others are famous for losing their lives much too early. Some of the other people are powerful because of the ideas they are representing. You will not leave here without having all the feels - sadness, happy, pride, anger, hopeful, devastated, & inspired. My only tip is to pick a day where it's not so New Orleans humid hot. There's no AC and I would have lingered longer if it wasn't so stifling in some of the back rooms. You'll want to stay here for awhile! It's an art show where the love for community really shines through.
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Zach M.

Yelp
Visiting Studio Be was one of the highlights of our trip to New Orleans. It's a really large space full of huge, beautiful murals with an important and powerful message. Brandon "B-Mike" is an amazing artist, who's masterful use of color, lighting and volume really shines in his larger-than-life portraits. We walked through the whole space twice and I felt like I could stare at some of the pieces forever. Do yourself a favor and make time to visit Studio Be. You'll see some beautiful art and maybe even grow as a person.
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Paisley M.

Yelp
Dope venue to learn about art in the city of New Orleans. The stories behind the pieces are amazing.
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FreeDom ..

Yelp
With all due respect, I've traveled through each corner of the United States and even found myself in a handful of continents beyond North America, and I've never been to a gallery, art space or museum that's provoked what happened in me today. Studio BE is brilliant; restorative; and future forward. I'm grateful to be part of a larger community and tribe dedicated to the liberation of The People! Thank you.
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Darius W.

Yelp
When activism meets art and soul...art speaks for itself. 'Nough said. Words can't describe, so say less. B-Mike made my New Orleans experience. Black art. Black love. Black excellence.
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Carlan M.

Yelp
Masks ads to be worn at all times. Timed entry. Spacious. Clean and health conscious. The exhibits inside and out were an absolute dream and would come back over and over again . Support the artist
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Nicole M.

Yelp
Thought-provoking work; such a gift to the city. Highly recommend a visit! (If you want to make a day of it, visit JAM NOLA two blocks away before or after)
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Phuong N.

Yelp
A very interesting location. If I were driving thru, I would just assume it's a warehouse. Walking in you would see huge size paintings of all kind catered to African American themes. You will stumble to an American Indian again one wall and some little white kids on this cool "blocks" stand. There is a locker with a cute face paint of a kid and a carved faces on the school chair table. There is a gift shop that they sell t shirts and empty decorated spray can the artists used. Lots of inspiration words all around the warehouse. You got to see it in person because my pictures don't give you the over all experience. I recommend only going during the daytime...lol
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Michelle M.

Yelp
This place is a MUST if you're in NOLA. BMike has a truly extraordinary and sensitive mind. Probably the only art gallery where you're told to just BE instead of being told what not to do. There were some parts where I felt like a kid and other parts where I just had pause and welcome the chills and parts where I let myself breakdown. The gallery on when the levees broke was very powerful. His work is a testament of what love is and what it means to survive.
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MM P.

Yelp
Truly and amazing experience. A must see. Be open minded take your time and don't rush so much to see and absorb. Seriously amazing