Click "Play" above to see and hear artist Lori Gordon forage through piles of debris in the woods where her home and studio once stood, seeking bits and pieces to use for her post-Katrina works of art.
BAY ST. LOUIS, Miss. -- At first, artist Lori Gordon combed through the wreckage of her neighborhood with trepidation, fearing that she would come across her husband’s cat or, worse, a human body. But that didn’t happen, and over time she came to find comfort and sanity in the activity — salvaging bits and pieces from the mountains of rubble in the woods after Katrina swept away the home, studio and treehouse retreat she shared with her husband, David Wheeler, a wood worker.
Replacing the body of artwork she lost in the storm is impossible, and replacing their home and studio is out of reach for now. But Gordon’s peregrinations have given her a toehold in the future, as she creates new mixed media pieces from the mud-caked fragments she has salvaged from the rubble.
“These collages — they’re not to everybody’s taste,” Gordon says. But she finds these works at very least generate conversation, and have largely received a positive reception in this arts-rich community.
The series is both literally and metaphorically composed of pieces of the storm, she says. "It is my way of trying to make sense of a senseless situation, and to find some peace in the middle of grief and loss."
At first, she was merely focused on finding things she and her husband had lost. She salvaged pieces of paintings and prints that she found wedged in trees or buried in the mud. Some turned up several blocks from where the house had stood. She picked up pieces of hardware from furniture that was otherwise destroyed. She came across the small stained-glass piece that had been in her front door. It was intact, sitting on the bare foundation, even though the door and the house were nowhere in sight.
She has run across fragments of art supplies she had accumulated over the past four decades, but the most valuable among them have eluded her.
“This is what kills me,” Gordon says, as she stops and picks up a plastic bag full of colored rubber bands. “I keep thinking I’m going to find one of these zip-lock bags that had all my turquoise in it or my amber — I had this beautiful Baltic amber — and instead I find my bag of rubber bands!”
“The other funny thing is that I have found so many paintings that were really shit paintings that I was going to paint over because I didn’t like them. What I really wanted to find was the painting I did of my dad who died 15 years ago.”
Click "Play" to hear Lori Gordon talk about the inspiration behind her artwork.
Nearly four dozen new works
Nonetheless, she has accumulated many treasures, and created nearly four dozen new works, some of them already sold through one of the few galleries to reopen in Bay St. Louis.’
Friends have opened up their own ruined shops and properties to her search for useful debris. She also peruses the wreckage that has been bulldozed into piles alongside the roads in the Bay St. Louis, Waveland area. Bits of dolls, picture frames, book covers and old photos all find their way into her work.
She gets excited about scraps that would be bypassed as more junk by most people. “Now this, this is a great piece of tin,” she says, picking a rusty relic out of the ditch. “The texture is good. … Look at all that different tonal stuff there.”
Some of the pieces are suggestive of the storm itself, including pieces of draped pieces of tattered fabric, like the remnants of clothes and bedding seen hanging in trees throughout the storm-stricken area. Others works include powerful symbols, such as photographs or images of eyes, angels and crucifixes that tend to elicit emotional responses and religious reflection. Some, says Gordon, simply mingle visual elements that work together, drawn from the detritus of the Katrina.
Aside from creating art, there’s little else normal about Gordon’s daily existence. She lives in a small trailer she bought on a parcel of land in outlying Bay St. Louis that owned by friends who also lost their home and business and uses what was their garage — a building with a gaping hole in the roof — for her studio. With the friends, a couple living at the same site in another trailer, they cook together outside.
Like many others, she spends a good deal of her time sorting through FEMA requirements and insurance settlements. Like other artists who remain in the community, she has applied for grants to continue her work.
Gordon and Wheeler’s home and studio were badly underinsured for Katrina. They had about $70,000 in flood insurance. That doesn't begin to replace the house, studio and treehouse, and their contents. Gordon's art supplies alone were worth $30,000, she estimates.
Insurers don't value unsold art
And there is essentially no insurance compensation for the lost artworks. Insurance companies cover only the cost of materials, Gordon says, so works that she can sell for hundreds of dollars are worth only a few dollars in insurance terms.
To save money, they aren’t planning to sign up for their property to be cleared by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, because they hope to salvage lumber for rebuilding.
Wheeler has been working for friends in Minnesota since a few weeks after the storm. He needed to get out of the disaster zone, and they needed the money, Gordon says.
When he does return, he will likely do most of the reconstruction himself, but it won’t be cheap, even so. With new flood elevations expected to be adopted in the area, the house will need to be at least six feet higher than the existing slab, they figure. But the final elevation requirements for insurance aren't expected for up to nine months.
Meantime, for Gordon, art is a source of income, a psychological lifeline and her contribution to the community as it tries to shake off the nightmare of Katrina.
“A lot of this is for me,” says Gordon. “I have to do this kind of stuff as much as I need to eat and sleep. But the other thing that I am trying to do, and that I’m very happy about is, it’s a part of the building process, and I want people to be able to look and say ‘look there’s something that’s being created out of all this rubble, out of all this destruction.’ Anything that can give us any kind of hope is well worth pursuing.”
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i think what gordon has made from katrina's path is so heart weling!!! It is hard to hold back the tears for all who were broken by katrina. I live so far away, but, so close in my heart. I can relate to painful losses. Jan. 97 leevee break took my home(houseboat that i married on) then 7months and 2 days later, burned out of the traile we finally was able to make at the same marina..
we were called the, "UNLUCKY COUPLE". Gordon, good luck to you and your passions, where home really is.
Thanks for sharing Terri
Terri Jeanettee Devine, Stockton, California (Sent Nov 10, 2005 4:46:10 PM)
i can not understand why there is no comments....there should be plenty..my lasst comment(my first is n where to be seen!!so here is my seconed one..i think what u are doing with the past for the now is wonderful..This art is history..May the higher power stay with with you and yours,theirs, past and the present.. They are beautifulThank you for sharing here in Stockton, California.
Terri Jeanettee Devine, Stockton, California (Sent Nov 10, 2005 5:42:03 PM)
I live in Sacramento and am blessed by no natural disasters, my heart goes out to all of you. Reach to each other, and believe in tomorrow. If you can receive care packages for the holidays, where can I send some??????????????
Kathy Houde, Sacto, CA (Sent Nov 10, 2005 6:31:20 PM)
Use appropriate language?? This story contains a cuss word. I was going to contact the artist about aquireing a piece since my name is Lori and my husbands is Gordon but I don't want cuss art.
Lori Wampler.
Mrs. Gordon Wampler (Sent Nov 10, 2005 8:04:30 PM)
I'm delighted to read Lori Gordon's story. I grew up in the area and have been shocked and hurt to see so much destroyed. I love and collect art, and this is exactly what we all need to begin to go on, a way of owning the storm and its destruction and making it a part of who we now are. Thank you!
Rebecca Meredith, Seattle Washington (Sent Nov 10, 2005 8:04:45 PM)
Lori - Your new collage work is really something. I met you with my husband on one of the Friday night gallery walks you had in Bay Saint Louis at the end of last year. My husband and I fell in love with the area and purchased a home in Waveland last December. We both were anticipating our move to this area right after Labor Day. Our plans were changed just as so many of the pieces you have put together in your artwork represent a change and painful growth process.
Although none of the "found objects" you have respectfully assembled into works of art were intended to be available as a new medium for your talents...they represent the new approach we can all take toward faithful and hopeful living in the future.
I am truly touched by the strong spiritual dimension of these carefully crafted works.
We are still hoping to come back and settle in the area someday even though our little house in Waveland is gone. It is the spirit of people like you that first attracted us here and will bring us back.
God Bless you and your husband.
Cindy Lederer, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Sent Nov 10, 2005 8:17:19 PM)
i think her story is very creative she really found a passion that suits her. Im proud of what shes doing its just what some people want to see in a time like this because i know how it feels to go through a storm like that because i live in Florida and i went through hurricane season.
Jennifer Baird, Orlando,FL (Sent Nov 10, 2005 10:04:44 PM)
Beautiful creations! Lori Gordon has been able to find the good in all the seemingly bad. This art work will be cherished for many years hence as a piece of history where Katrina and all the other hurricanes in the year of 2005 are concerned. BRAVO!
Cherie Johnson, Orlando, Florida (Sent Nov 11, 2005 7:22:22 AM)
I cannot believe that someone would choose not to buy a piece of art because the artist used one bad word. Oh my goodness, it is the end of the world. Put yourself in her shoes. What would you do if you were put into that situation? At least this woman has not lost her spirit. I admire her for what she is doing. It takes a strong person, emotionally and physically to bounce back from a blow like Katrina. I wish Lori and her husband all the best. The Lord will smile down on them and bless them. I pray for the best for them.
Jewell, Greensboro, NC (Sent Nov 11, 2005 8:22:30 AM)
In response to Ms Wampler:
I didn't hear any profanity in the interview, However, I might remind you that if you lived in this area,as I do, (Biloxi Beach) You wouldn't be so sensitive about something so frivilous as that. A true art lover looks at the art. Are you saying that none of the "Masters" ever used profanity??
Can you say this with certainty??
Mrs. Gordon is seeing possibilities out of total destruction, which of course is where the real focus should lie. Thank you for your time, and thanks for the inspiration Mrs. Gordon!! :)
Susan Ruliffson,Biloxi,MS (Sent Nov 11, 2005 8:41:49 AM)
Lori,
You arr truly an inspiration! Keep on the art and building a new and potentially better collection than before. Did you even find the painting of your father? I hope so and if not that maybe you can create a new one.
Bless you and thank you for sharing your story.
The Harlow's, San Diego, California (Sent Nov 11, 2005 10:54:23 AM)
I too am from MS. My heart breaks for all there. I believe you are blessed in being able to see beauty and comfort in the rubble left behind. It didn't come from trash and is not trash now that you have given it new life. Your work is to be commended. I pray you will find your father's picture. May God continue to bless you and all those effected by these storms in our lives.
Patricia Thornton, Mt. Juliet, TN (Sent Nov 11, 2005 10:59:28 AM)
I am from Gulfport, Miss. just a few miles east of Bay St. Louis. Art is an extention of the artist, hopefully to be enjoyed by others. If the only benefit Lori receives from her collages is to help her put her shattered life back together, this is the best therapy for her. The hope of an artist is to draw people to their work, to get a different take on life, this lady has certainly done that.
Barrie Murray Falmouth Mass. (Sent Nov 11, 2005 1:06:50 PM)
Dear Ms. Wampler.
Have you never, ever cussed yourself? Expressed frustration over something trivial? What the victims of Katrina are dealing with is the farthest from trivial that I can imagine.
For Lori Gordon to express her loss (and I imagine a large amount of frustration) so beautifully through her art, wrought from pieces born of such devastation is a powerful, positive testament to survival.
I'd LOVE to aquire one of her collages, and my name is not Lori, nor do I know anyone named Gordon... (what a ridiculous reason to purchase any piece of artwork) Art is about expression, and the fact that you've dubbed the collages 'Cuss' art has made Lori Gordon's creations even more valuable!
A. Nonymous, Houston, TX (Sent Nov 11, 2005 3:04:53 PM)
Speaking as an outsider in which Thank God we were not in this terrible trajedy but we were affected by the stories and the pictures, it gives a feeling of warmth in my heart, what you have done with your is so overwhelming I pray every day for us all to look beyond the trajedy and come together as a nation God Bless You All.
Corine Sinaloa (Sent Nov 11, 2005 3:22:47 PM)
I am from Maryland and my heart goes out to each and everyone that was affected by this, as for Lori you go and keep your art alive, and really the cuss word was not bad, my goodness have you ever heard bad language in your life.
J Brown Westernport maryland (Sent Nov 11, 2005 3:24:44 PM)
Dearest Lori, I am so touched by your ability to press forward and use the yin-yang to ballance destruction and creativity. You will succeed at rebuilding twice the art gallery of your dreams. It would be the easy way to bunker down and not participate in life. You have a God given passion to help others heal dementionally. The best of luck...
Heather D. Williamstown, Massachusetts (Sent Nov 11, 2005 4:26:41 PM)
to Lori & Gordon may god bless you and give you both strength in whatever you do to show hope amid devastation. I was at the WTC and rebuilding will come and yet through your art you save what was all in one picture and maybe a memorial museum for those who perish can be done there to always remember and honor and move on with hope that things will get a little better a day at a time. god bless
E. ocasio, bronx,NY (Sent Nov 11, 2005 4:55:37 PM)
Lori, your art is very moving. To be able to find scraps from debris and create art with meaning is simply amazing. I wish you and your family all the best. I pray for everyone that were touched by Katrina & Rita.
p.s. Mrs. Wampler, All I can say to you is, SHAME ON YOU!!! Evidently you have never suffered through a disaster or you have led such a sheltered life that it has made you an absolute idiot.
AGAIN, SHAME ON YOU!!! Why would you even say something to someone who has been through such a devastating experience? You are just the type of close minded people that judge books by their covers. If you can even understand the meaning of that.... I am outraged at your comment to say the least. From now on if you do not have anything nice to say, Keep your mouth shut!!!
Aprile Smith (Sent Nov 11, 2005 5:54:54 PM)
I give my prayers n thoughts to all who lost homes and jobs and fmaily. i hope everyone takes care and if ya need help ask dont hold bk
remember Sorrow looks down, worry looks around, and faith looks up!
Amber, roswell, georgia (Sent Nov 11, 2005 8:21:28 PM)
lori..i was wondering about a purchase $. I am wanting to invest in your disasters of the past and the arts from your heart. So?? How am i to go about this...If you could email me?? This would keep our business private. I've read the "send a Comment(s): Please Read!!!??? well, iam apaulled by one in peticular!! these responses are meant to be ," for the good of all. And harm no one. Some need to," Read," up on the, "Please Read!", & take it to heart. Not rip it out!!!.(AGAIN!)
PS Lori, just ignore you know who, i did not see any curse words either..No one now and here are not perfect..world does not revolve around the oh so perfect.. Thanks Please email me. The source is at your finger tips...:)
TJD Stockton,California (Sent Nov 11, 2005 8:53:04 PM)
lori,
I can understand your energy behind what you are doing, good luck!
dan, Bay City, MI (Sent Nov 12, 2005 6:08:06 AM)
Lori, your artwork is simply beautiful.What an incredible talent GOD has given you.And as for the term "cuss art"...Im sure I'd have said several choice words had I surveyed the devastation as you did. Maybe the title isn't so far off afterall!!
God Bless you and everyone else affected.
Pam Spangler Las Vegas NV (Sent Nov 12, 2005 3:04:15 PM)
gimme ome of that gosh-darned cuss art! I have a pet possum called Gordon!
jeff, ames, iowa (Sent Nov 12, 2005 5:44:39 PM)
Lori, when our house burned two years ago I asked anyone searching through the ashes with us to please put aside any item that they found so I could hold it one more time. As I searched I found more and more things that had such meaning not only from the past but represented how quickly things could be lost or changed. We carefully boxed these items and put in my husbands work shop. Well, you can guess what happened to them, what wasn't covered in mud was broken when a refrigerator fell on top of boxes. I spent hours today going through the workshop and pulling out everything, broken or not. Lori, I don't have your artistic talents but I am going to display what I can and put the rest in a very safe, heavy box (in the attic of the house we will continue to rebuild). We have attended the 2nd Saturday Art Walks since the storm and are so proud of our "other home" in BSL. Hope to meet you one day soon.
Mary, Pass Christian, MS (Sent Nov 12, 2005 6:40:26 PM)
Lori, as a fellow artist,I find your creations quite beautiful. I wish you the best. Taking something horrible and turning it into beauty is an awsome thing.
Please disregard that comment from a person who obviously doesn't have a heart or soul.
Sandra Breaux (Sent Nov 12, 2005 8:05:36 PM)
pleas..lets just let the feeling flow..all and those who have not commented? No time to waste! Newest efforts for gordons community,along with her pull together fellow community resident; Jewlery Artist: Anderson..They need Registared Voters in any state, county, & city(of age voters) for their Coastal Community Watch Email is: info@coastalcommunitywatch.org You Goooooo Girls!!!!!! :) There is the disappearance of whole states. Never been there, but by goss if i ever am able to? I know that i could help some how with the comments crowd!! Go with the, " Whole World," in my Hands! Yes Thanks Tee
Terri Jeanettee Devine, Stockton, California (Sent Nov 12, 2005 8:50:36 PM)
I am so glad to see an artist finding meaning in this devistating event. As many have already said, Lori's work is an inspiration on so many levels.
As innapropriate as it may seem to those who lost so much, the relation between Lorie's artistic process and the process of natural systems is a link missing from so much of the news coverage about Hurricane Katrina. Her work reminds us that the laws of nature are dependent on the cyclic process of destruction & renewal. It is a fundamental part of life itself- there can be no life without it. We humans tend to forget this and Lori's work brings us back to that place we all share.
Lindsay Smith, Eugene, Oregon (Sent Nov 13, 2005 7:40:10 PM)
CUSS???? Hell, I am a dear friend of Lori's and a fellow artist. You have not heard anything yet! Those of us who have lost our homes, cars, studios, (and some who have lost pets and family members) have used words we had not heard since high school.........and we use them daily sometimes!!!!!
Julie Nelson, Kiln (formerly Waveland) MS. (Sent Nov 13, 2005 10:01:51 PM)
Dearest Lori - I bought a small piece of yours on Saturday - the one with the bright orange feather. When we get walls again, I'll have to find a place of honor for it. I'd been to BSL about 10 days after the storm and heard you were "OK" (whatever that means anymore - I was just happy to hear you had survived). I heard why we missed seeing you on Saturday and my heart is with you, and am hoping that these hard times will give way to better times before long. I have loved your mixed media pieces since you began showing them - and your new work is truly inspired. I am sure that the pleasure they will bring will live long after the memories of this nightmare have faded to grey. I hope your daughter and husband are doing well - and that you will find more of your treasures. I hope to see you again in BSL soon. always, Kathe Newcomb
Kathe Newcomb, Diamondhead, MS (Sent Nov 14, 2005 1:10:32 AM)
mrs gordon wampler:
im just curious if youve went back & read the comments people have posted about your stupid & careless comments. i cheered w/ each one. you really should be ashamed of yourself. is your life lacking not one single sin that would entitle you to cast a stone at this woman? i highly doubt it. you understand that it isnt your place to judge your fellow man for their reaction in their time of crisis. when my 45 brother died of cancer, i cursed the world out loud. grief is a very powerful thing & you nor i have the right to admonish people for how they deal w/ it. her words didnt hurt you, im sure you soon forgot about the story & its content, but im sure all the people who read your post wont soon let you forget it.
d kemmer (Sent Nov 14, 2005 11:57:14 AM)
Dear Lori Gordon...you are amazing. I also applaud you for "calling it like it is". I am in Phoenix Arizona....we have to survive 115 degree days but that is all. you are remarkable and I hope you truly know that. I wish you would put up a web site...(or did I miss it.
ALSO MRS WAMPLER....YOU ARE TRULY AMAZING IN YOUR JUDGEMENT OF OTHERS....GOD HELP YOU IF YOUR LIFE IS TORN APART AND YOU SAY "DANG IT" TOO LOUD. I understand you have your values...but don't kick people when they are down.
Lori...Where Can I buy somethin
Tom H. (Sent Nov 16, 2005 7:26:20 PM)
Lori, You are (and always have been) an inspiration. The courage you have to allow us all a view into your personal catastropy and the beauty that you are able to create from such a devastation. Although I haven't seen you in years (or E for that matter) I think about you often and I am so glad you are and will be OK. Let me know if you or E are up in the Denver area would love to see you.
Shelly (Beth's daughter)
Shelly, Denver, Co (Sent Nov 17, 2005 7:09:08 AM)
Create on, Lori Gordon, create on! As a fellow artist in Indiana, I completely understand the absolute need to create. It's a necessity to artists, like breathing. Things will get better and you'll have maintained your personal sanity because of your art. So, all I can say is, create on Lori Gordon, create on!!!!
Vicki Moyer, Frankfort, Indiana (Sent Nov 17, 2005 10:29:57 AM)
lori, your assemblege art is incredible, so insightful as well and i know healing you as you do it. do you have a collection box somewhere that i can donate great finds. i too am an artist with a passion for treasure hunting and have seen so many great "pieces" in the rubble. i would love to contribute...just let me know where the drop off is.
michelle allee pass christian, mississippi (Sent Nov 17, 2005 2:03:34 PM)
My only request: Where can I get some of this art? It is awesome! I am from Vicksburg, MS; and my father is a Corp of Engineers architect working for MEMA (MS Emergency Management Assoc.) in Newton, MS. I would love to have one of these great pieces of art and to support a fellow Mississippian at the same time. Is there an email address? Good luck and God bless.
Sarah; Sardis (and Vicksburg), MS (Sent Nov 17, 2005 4:23:44 PM)
Lori-
I think it is wonderful that you create these touching pieces of beauty ( and they ARE) out of the demolition of your life and the lives of people around you. Sometimes the translation of beauty from unglyness is healing and can in some small way make things bearable and understandable. Keep on and don't let the small minded and small souled ones hurt you.
Blessings!
Christa , Chicago IL (Sent Nov 18, 2005 1:56:20 PM)
This is not a comment, just a question--I wish to know where I could see and buy your art. I especially like your collages that have a spiritual nature. Looking for bits and pieces is such a personal liking, but if you could tell me what you "need" while I junk shop I could keep an eye out.
Martha A. Wood, Gulfport, Ms. (Sent Nov 18, 2005 11:59:17 PM)
Hi Lori,
I too, would be honored to have some of that cuss art. Do you have a website? If not, maybe someone out there will help you build one.
Love you...
Mark Guest, formerly of Waveland, temping in Greenville, SC (Sent Nov 20, 2005 9:06:04 PM)
I am not much into art per se...most is over my head.
but....I think this rubble art looks great!
B, Salt Lake City, Utah (Sent Nov 21, 2005 2:42:28 PM)
I admire your art and your efforts to heal as you collect pieces of your life for others to see and purchase. I can see your project done on a much larger scale with your collections traveling the U.S. for others to experience. Or, you and other artists on the Mississippi Gulf Coast could collaborate your efforts into a grand fund raising project to benefit the Katrina recovery. Especially since your part of the coast isn't getting the attention that New Orleans has. Do you have a website yet for people to purchase your art? The next step may be Oprah! Go for it!!
Tracy, Pinellas Park, FL (Sent Nov 23, 2005 11:07:09 AM)
Lori:
I just can't imagine what you and your neighbors have been through, god bless you. My heart felt like a stone to see the devasation, but your work is not only helping you cope and to heal, it is an inspiration to us all, and I'm sure to the many others who have suffered along side you.
Charlie Vandemoer, Wakefield, RI (Sent Nov 23, 2005 5:31:37 PM)
Lori:
I can't imagine how your life has been turned upside down with the loss of your brother, your home, and livelihood--it is almost too much to conceive. Yet, your art and your soul have survived with grace, dignity, humor, and the ability to create art from chaos! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for all those reasons. Keep your face to the sunshine.
with common South Dakotan roots,
Kristinn
(Watertown)
Kristinn Heinrichs, Phoenix, Arizona (Sent Nov 24, 2005 2:37:17 PM)
Please let me know where I can purchase a piece of your art. We spent each years vacation on the gulf coast and our hearts go out to all.
Sue Zitterich (Sent Nov 25, 2005 11:12:49 AM)
As a fellow survivor of losses, I commend Lori and all others who continue to rise above the ruin and who are trying to make some kind of sense of it all. I am at a loss for words in trying to express the admiration and respect I feel towards all those whose lives were litarally turned upside down by Katrina. My thoughts and my prayers are with you all.
Norma Burke, Hollywood, Florida (Sent Nov 25, 2005 11:55:31 AM)
Lori, of all the local pieces of art I lost (along with my beloved Waveland home) your painting of Bird City haunts me the most. It can never be replaced.
Mary, Avery Island, LA (Sent Nov 25, 2005 5:57:46 PM)
Please , has any one found where this art can be seen and purchsed... What a way to help to begin to heal!! It is all so heart breaking, nothing will ever be the same again..
In my prayers..
Carolyn Chandler, Turners Falls, MA. (Sent Nov 27, 2005 3:09:46 PM)
i just want to say my family and i had to move to illinois, i miss my home on the gulf coast,i am very home sick and in the future will be contacting you for a art peice ,this show the type of folks that live on the caost they have spirit, and i miss that here in southern illinois,the gulf was and still is beautiful what makes the gulf such a wonderful place is it people,not casinos,beaches and stately home these i am sure will return as will i all of you who havent been to miss. gulf coast ,go and see the beauty the people!
virgil darnell (Sent Nov 28, 2005 12:48:26 AM)
Go Lori! I miss you, Pam West
Pam West, Bay St. Louis, MS (Sent Nov 28, 2005 10:38:49 PM)
Lori, I think your collages are beautiful. I'm sure this is a wonderful healing process. Although all the material things you lost can never be replaced at least you have your family and your art. You're creativity has come long way from the beautiful paintings I've seen at Beth's home to these wonderful collages. Take heart. Retta (Beth's Aunt)Rapid City, SD
Retta Jackson (Sent Nov 30, 2005 2:52:05 PM)
Lori, hope your computer is working...ha ha. If there is anything I can do to help you please let me know. And remember to always...back up!
Larry Smith, BSL, MS (Sent Nov 30, 2005 4:25:21 PM)
If you need help with a website to display/sell your art, just let me know. I would be glad to help.
Julie, Houston (Sent Nov 30, 2005 5:18:55 PM)
Lori, Wow!! What a way to try to heal and restore your life and home. I do crafts and I find it to be very relaxing for me. Your work is astonishing and to take something that was so bad and turn it in to something positive, what a wonderful gift you have! I would love to have some of your cuss art, what an honor!
(Wampler must lead a very sheltered life and have never experienced any tragedy in her life and if that is how you feel, please tell me why your home is furnished with furniture and pictures etc. someone has made the things you own and I am sure they have let a cuss word out. So your comment only makes you look bad as I am sure you tell by the responses you have gotten) Good Day to all and keep doing what you are doing Lori, your work is remarkable. God Bless
S. Springer, Tulsa, OK (Sent Dec 1, 2005 1:53:58 PM)
Truly inspiring article. Like so many others where can I go online to see and maybe purchase some of your art. I have never gone through what you have and pray to God I never do. However if by some sheer chance I do and cuss now and then I hope it'll be ok. I can't believe that woman was worried over a cuss word when your whole life was gone. How shallow some people are. God bless and the best of luck to you and yours.
Rich Harris Troy, OH (Sent Dec 1, 2005 3:04:46 PM)
Lori,
As a fellow assemblage artist, I say 'You go, girl!'. I totally understand your need to create and how you can envision something from nothing. I myself have picked up bits of rusty metal while waiting for the Dauphin Island ferry! And have used them later. Your work is inspiring and beautiful. I hope you can establish a web site and share your work via the internet. God bless.
Cheryl
By the way, I didn't even see the 'cuss word' the first time I read the story. I had to go back and search for it. Pish posh!!
Natchitoches, LA (Sent Dec 1, 2005 9:21:47 PM)
Lori
Your creations have a great deal of meaning. It is a way to remember Katrina for a lifetime (not that anyone will forget). Let us know when you put them on a website for others to purchase. I go along with those who criticize Mrs. (Goody-too-Shoes) Wampler. Get a life lady. If you didn't like the words why did you listen?
Brandi Florence, Florida (Sent Dec 6, 2005 3:29:34 PM)
Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.....
Where can I buy some of this beautiful art that you have created from debris. And isn't that what our Lord and Saviour has done with some of our lives???
He has in mine, created something substantial from what was waste. God Bless you Lori and Gordon.
D. Latham, Santa Teresa, NM (Sent Dec 6, 2005 6:30:17 PM)
Your story and work is beautiful. I have shown your pictures to some of my art students. I am hoping they will understand collages alittle better. We have already talked about how art is to make you think and doesn't always have to be beautiful. They agreed you did both well and the bits of mud need to be there.
Libbi Ackerman, Gore, Oklahoma (Sent Dec 7, 2005 12:51:28 PM)
Lori, I think what you are doing is wonderful and inspiring at the same time. Keep up the good work and God Bless you and your family. You are in our prayers. Thank you for sharing your story.
Bonnie, Burnsville,MN (Sent Dec 7, 2005 1:17:06 PM)
Lori: Your work is wonderful, please let me know how I can purchase a piece.
Valerie Cooney, Carson City, NV (Sent Dec 26, 2005 6:36:41 PM)
Lori Gordon is inspiration to all artists out here in the world! Even when everything is gone, no studio, no products, and no customers, the one remaining true gift is your God-Given talent that no one or nothing can strip away!
Katherine, Atlanta, GA (Sent Dec 27, 2005 8:53:05 AM)
Lori, I think your work is very inspiring and hope you get a site established so that we can all purchase some of your "cuss art." I truly would love to have some of it.
Dixie (Sent Dec 28, 2005 12:48:02 PM)
LOL... I also do assemblages and I had already done one of found New Orleans objects that collage the debris into the typewriter symbols that Beetle Bailey cartoons use for Sarge's cussing. It's gorgeous! It's okay for men to cuss, but not women, dats whot I heard. LOL
K D Nunez de Galicia (Sent Jan 13, 2006 12:03:19 PM)
Hi Lori, This is Robin Steves from Little Rock. It was wonderful to meet you and see your work this weekend at the "dress rehearsal" for Hearts for Heart. I can't wait for March 11 and "Opening Night" of Hancock Art. Your work is so touching and beautiful. I hope the tour goes worldwide so everyone can enjoy it . . . and BUY it! Love, all your fans in Arkansas!!
Robin Steves, N. Little Rock, Arkansas (Sent Feb 20, 2006 5:23:15 PM)
Lori,
Thanks for all you have done. We love your art and can't wait to have some more of your new work here in McComb at Japonica. We wish you the best. Come see us soon.
Japonica Gallery, McComb, MS (Sent Feb 22, 2006 8:57:12 PM)
Lori,
I don,t know if you remember me but I am Mary Pats son Kevin. I got a surprise to see your story told here.I would just like everyone to know that Lori is a very funny and kind individual.She has the best outlook on life and a great sense of humour, which is amazing considering how much she lost.Everybody should do themselves a favor and buy a piece of art from this lady.Her stuff is pretty good,so send her some cash and get yourself some art.You know you want to.Take care Lori.Keep on rocking in the free world!Love from Portland Oregon.
Kevin Forrest,Portland,Oregon (Sent Mar 2, 2006 9:01:56 PM)
Agree with Kevin -- do a good turn and buy Gulf Coast Art!
And while you're at it, check out the Hancock county artist website for other ways to help:
http://www.hancock-art.com/
Thais, Portland, Oregon (Sent Mar 4, 2006 7:43:49 PM)
Hi Lori, Are you the Lori Gordon that we used to know? Janice and I were both wondering if it could be you. We are still in Spearfish Sd. Sorry to hear about your problems. Take good care, Bob & Janice Koski
Bob Koski Spearfish, South Dakota (Sent Mar 12, 2006 2:24:57 AM)
The old saying goes, "When life hands you lemons, make lemonade." Lori, I just wanted to thank you for your courage in the aftermath of this disaster, and for being an inspiration to us all. As a fellow artist, I would like to highlight the (obvious) fact that your artwork is poignant and uplifting, and above all, HONEST. Honesty is far more important in the eyes of God than a frivolous cuss word.
Stephanie Unson, California (Sent Apr 13, 2006 4:57:22 AM)
Lori
I met you last weekend (4.27.06). You are an incredible person and I am enjoying the art I bought for you!
Take care and God Bless You!
Kristin Walraven, Michigan (Sent May 4, 2006 7:44:16 AM)
Rosie O'Donnell has this link on her blog so get ready for a lottt of traffic.
I think your work is brilliant! Good for you for making lemonade!
Susan, Phila PA (Sent Jun 3, 2006 7:36:37 AM)
Lori, your work is wonderful and to take something from the ruins and make it a memorable piece while giving yourself some strees relief is admirable.
Gosh, maybe if you had said feces painting, the poster wouldn't have been offended-lol. With all you have been through, I think I would have used worse words than that. Thanks for sharing your story.
PJ---Crowley, Louisiana (Sent Jul 13, 2006 3:20:47 PM)
I was a volunteer in BSL in May and saw your work displayed in the shop. It is fabulous and disturbing at the same time. People need to come and see your art in the context of the area, stay for a while, and help. Much as been done, but so much more is still left to be done.
Debbie Rogers (Sent Aug 2, 2006 1:47:09 PM)
Lori,
I heard your story for the first time today (on NPR!) and visited all your websites. The work is beautiful, and elicits a range of emotions. As a viewer, I get to think about where everything came from, and how the pieces can be brought back together, differently, painstakingly, but with beauty.
Your prior paintings were beautiful too, but the post-Katrina art is remarkable. Thanks for acting on the pull of your spirit; it's an example to a new artist like me. I lost my 14 year old son to cancer a few years ago. I asked him how he'd communicate with me and he said, "I'll speak to you through your art." It was the biggest gift he could have given. Grief can bestow gifts as well as pain, if we allow it.
Best of luck to you, and I hope to see you and your work someday in California!
Barbara Reid, Bakersfield, California (Sent Aug 6, 2006 3:06:40 AM)
Lori...
I was so happy to find this and learn that you are, as ever, preserving history through your art work. After Katrina I tried to find you to no avail...please get in touch!
Suzan O'Connell, Spearfish, SD (Sent Aug 7, 2006 1:52:43 PM)
My name is Jocelyn and I am interested in coming to New Orleans early next year to film a feature project. I need artists to be involved, so let me know if you are interested.
Jocelyn Marquis, Brooklyn NY (Sent Aug 31, 2006 1:51:59 PM)
Hi Lori, It was so nice meeting you and sharing a evening of fun and relaxation while visiting New Orleans this past summer. You are one exceptional lady, I was so caught up in the excitement that I didn't purchase an angel, we missed you when I visited Waveland. I will be back in October, I do hope to get to spend some time with you at the beach and purchase an angel, I send my Love and prayers to my Peeps in Waveland, sincerely, Gail (Michael's sister from Nashville)
Gail Pugh-Chandler (Sent Sep 9, 2006 11:21:45 AM)
Lori,
It's Heidi Wagner from Watertown. I see your sweet brother's face when I look at pictures of you. You are incredible. I never got a chance to purchase anything you were selling to help him and Cheryl and here you are helping again. Cheryl forwarded me an email about your scheduled and then cancelled interview and so I googled you.
I am going to go back and search for a way to purchase something also. If you read this and can help guide me that would be great. Rich inspires me everyday and I thank God I got to reconnect with him at our reunion. He certainly lives on in you as you inspire away. You "GO GIRL".
All love and infinite gratitude to you,
Heidi Wagner
Heidi Wagner, Ventura, CA (Sent Sep 21, 2006 7:01:32 PM)
dear people, we grieve, we weep, we struggle each day to survive in our broken community. we pray for strength and some days we curse. lori is an inspiration to those of us who still need to make art. brenda randolph
brenda randolph (Sent Jan 6, 2007 3:02:25 AM)
I have two Lori Gordon photographs hanging up in my new office in my new life, started after I moved from the Bay. Both were taken two days after the storm. The research I do has benefitted funding-wise from the hurricane. As my colleagues scamper (understandably) to take their bite of the apple, I keep these pictures there to serve as a reminder that this wasn't an existential and dispassionate event for the residents of the area.
R., BSL (formerly) (Sent Mar 10, 2007 9:35:16 PM)
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