Thomas “Randy” Morrison was a beloved Mardi Gras parade float designer and sculptor, as well as a gifted fine artist with a bronze collection of neoclassical figurative sculptures. He passed away unexpectedly in January of 2022, shortly before the Mardi Gras celebration in which his monumental floats would be featured in two major parades: the Krewe of Pygmalion and the Krewe of Hermes. Prior to h
is death, Morrison sculpted what he hoped would be his magnum opus: a life-size clay sculpture of Venus in repose, the goddess seeming to levitate as if floating on a dream. We, his friends and family, are raising money to see this masterpiece cast in bronze as he intended, and displayed where it can be appreciated by the people of New Orleans. About the Artist: Morrison had a profound impact on the NOLA grassroots art community, and particularly the Mardi Gras artist community. For over 25 years, he inspired, influenced, and mentored many of the artists working on Mardi Gras today. He had an eye for talent and often led teams of artists to design, build, sculpt, and paint the stunning floats that were his trademark. He left a legacy of well-trained artists influenced by his style, his knowledge, and his belief that art is for everyone, and that Mardi Gras is the perfect way to share beautiful art for free. He loved New Orleans and the Greek and Roman mythology that are so much a part of the city’s character. New Orleans' artistic spirit and joie de vivre inspired him and reflected his own unquenchable passion. He has left an indelible mark on the city and its inhabitants, and his work will be featured and reused in Mardi Gras parades for years to come. Morrison Public Art Projects LLC is a non-profit organization founded by Stacey Morrison and Steven Morrison, the artist’s siblings, and David Seropian, his lifelong friend. Founded in 2023, our non-profit is dedicated to the challenge of seeing this project through to completion, then continuing to support the New Orleans artistic community that Thomas Morrison loved and nurtured during his long career. Our application to the IRS for tax-exempt status is currently pending. Note that donations made to this project will be tax deductible only if the IRS grants our tax-exempt status.
