Boom or Bust Finalists Announced
Announcing Finalists for Boom or Bust Byway Artistic Gateway Signs
Northwest Louisiana, February 2, 2024 — The Shreveport Regional Arts Council (SRAC), in collaboration with the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau (SBCTB) and the National Endowment of the Arts (NEA), is thrilled to announce the finalists of the artistic designs to enhance the iconic Boom or Bust Byway Gateway Signs.
Envisioned by SBCTB, artistic gateway signs will be assembled along the 163-mile nationally recognized Byway, showcasing the vibrant communities of Gilliam, Oil City, Plain Dealing, Vivian, Belcher, Hosston, Homer, and Lake Claiborne. Inspired by the renowned “THUNDER BAY” Gateway Signs in Canada, these laser-cut metal signs will not only pay homage to the cultural heritage of Northwest Louisiana, but also display the natural beauty of the region’s backdrop.
“The Boom or Bust Byway is deeply woven into the culture of Northwest Louisiana, and we are excited to highlight the heritage of the people that live along its route. These gateway signs are eye-catching and remarkable additions that we hope will encourage travelers to stop, play and explore,” said Stacy Brown, President of Visit Shreveport-Bossier.
The Boom or Bust Byway signs model their creativity by combining the essence of each community with a distinctive visual narrative. These symbols, handpicked by each community and their leaders, will mirror their unique history, culture, and allure.
“The most common statement made about the choices included the fact that the town of Vivian was founded and built around the railroad depot which was a stop along the way for taking on water and supplies for the steam powered locomotive. The museum represents the original growth factor for the building of the town,” said Vivian Mayor Ronnie Festavan.
“[We] absolutely love every one of them!,” said Belcher Mayor Jennifer Fant about the Semi-
Finalist designs. Belcher had a very close race, voting several times to determine a final design.
The Jury Panel that determined the Semi Finalists’ designs consisted of collegiate acidemias from Northwest Louisiana institutions like Centenary, Northwestern, LA Tech and LSUS. There were over 70 submissions from local artists on SRAC’s Culturalyst, narrowed down to 8 Semifinalists by the Jury Panel and 6 Finalists by the municipalities.
SEMIFINALIST WINNERS:
Oil City, Lake Claiborne, Belcher|Betsy Levels
Hosston, Homer | Brittney Hazelton
Homer | Chris Broussard
Gilliam, Hosston, Belcher, Plain Dealing, Homer, Vivian, Lake Claiborne | Dorothy Kristin Hanna
Gilliam | Julie Burton
Plain Dealing | Karin Ebbesson
Oil City | Lisandra di Liberto Torres
Oil City, Lake Claiborne | Whitney Tates
FINALIST WINNERS:
Hosston, Homer | Brittney Hazelton
Vivian, Belcher | Dorothy Kristin Hanna
Gilliam | Julie Burton
Plain Dealing | Karin Ebbesson
Oil City | Lisandra di Liberto Torres
Lake Claiborne | Whitney Tates
This Artist Call presented a golden opportunity for artists to become an integral part of Northwest Louisiana’s rich cultural narrative. Join us in this endeavor to beautify the Boom or Bust Byway with creativity and inspiration. Semifinalists were awarded $500 for each design that was selected by the jury panel and Finalists were awarded $1500 for their designs selected by the communities.
These prominent roadside signs will be fabricated with iconic imagery by Dixie Weld-Fab in Belcher, also located along the Byway. A QR code will accompany each sign, offering a gateway to local attractions and insights.
“This project has been three years in the making for all the organizations involved, and it’s exciting that it will see completion in 2024,” said Crystal Davis, Project Manager. “I look forward to the communities having an artistic element that gives them pride in their home.”
For further information, please contact:
### About Shreveport Regional Arts Council:
The Shreveport Regional Arts Council is dedicated to promoting and supporting the arts in Northwest Louisiana. Through a range of programs and initiatives, the organization seeks to foster creativity, artistic expression, and cultural enrichment for all residents.
### About Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau:
The Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau is committed to showcasing the vibrant culture, entertainment, and attractions of the Shreveport-Bossier area to both local residents and visitors from afar.
### About Boom or Bust Byway:
The Boom or Bust Byway offers a scenic route that uncovers the diverse landscapes, stories, and communities that have shaped the history of Northwest Louisiana. It’s an exploration of heritage and natural beauty, inviting travelers to embark on an unforgettable journey.