If you’ve flown into Baton Rouge recently, you might have noticed a burst of vibrant color greeting you in the airport’s rental car annex. That’s the work of local artist Ashli Ognelodh, whose stunning mural transforms the space into a welcoming introduction to Baton Rouge’s rich culture and a brief history of the airfield’s development. More than just a decorative piece, it’s a visual story of the city—one that greets travelers with a sense of place and ideas for strategic tourism the moment they grab their bags to explore.
Ashli Ognelodh, a well-known figure in Baton Rouge’s art scene, is no stranger to large-scale murals. She has completed numerous public art installations throughout the city in collaboration with The Walls Project, a local organization that uses art to ignite community change.
A Celebration of Baton Rouge
The mural is a vivid love letter to the city. Stretching across the rental car annex, it immerses you in the sights and spirit of Baton Rouge. Cultural districts such as the Louisiana State Capitol, Garden District, and Spanish Town are depicted in vibrant detail, mixed with abstract bursts of color that symbolize the energy and diversity of the city. There are also historical nods to the airport's past as a WWII airfield, offering a subtle reflection on the city's evolution.
Ognelodh’s skillful use of color immediately draws the eye—splashes of yellows, reds, and blues create a vibrant palette that shifts as you move through the space. Each section of the mural weaves together elements of Baton Rouge’s past and present, portraying the city’s journey from a bustling trading post along the Mississippi River to a modern cultural hub. Her mix of realism and playful abstract forms encourages travelers to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the layers of stories embedded in the installation.
A Warm Welcome for Travelers
One of the first things travelers see when they arrive in Baton Rouge, the vignettes create a vivid backdrop for reunion moments, set the tone for visitors’ time in Baton Rouge, and serve as a reminder to returning residents of what makes their hometown special.
The location itself adds an extra layer of impact in a once mundane liminal space.
The airport’s rental car area might seem like an unusual canvas, but Ashli Ognelodh’s mural transforms this functional space into a portal experience whose story adapts based on the direction from which you enter the space.
Baton Rouge in Full Color
While Louisiana is known for its vibrant culture, Ashli Ognelodh’s mural at the Baton Rouge Airport sets the capital city apart, offering a targeted visual experience that celebrates Baton Rouge’s unique identity. Her mural captures the essence of the capital, creating a colorful welcome that stands out from the broader cultural landscape of the state. It’s not just a reflection of Louisiana’s music, food, and festivities—it’s a love letter to Baton Rouge itself.
For residents and tourists alike, the installations invite patrons to connect with the city’s deep-rooted heritage and explore its unique flora and fauna. Whether you’re arriving or returning home, Ognelodh’s mural provides a vibrant introduction that makes you feel the pride and pulse of the capital city. Next time you’re at the Baton Rouge Airport, take a moment to appreciate this masterpiece—Ashli’s work ensures that you carry a piece of Baton Rouge with you, wherever you go.
Commentaires