Introducing Blake Lagneaux

Blake Lagneaux is a Lafayette-based Illustrator, Graphic Designer, and Creative Director with 20+ years of design, marketing, agency, and in-house experience.

Blake is the owner of Black Sheep Studio, a freelance illustration and graphic design business. Black Sheep Studio offers custom illustrations, art direction, logo and brand development, graphic design and layout for print and web, social media content, and a range of additional services. You can also find an array of prints, stickers, bookmarks, and more on Black Sheep Studio’s website. Blake is fueled by big Ideas, problem-solving, and conjuring a feeling of thoughtful whimsy, wherever he can.

Shop Black Sheep Studio here: https://blakelagneaux.bigcartel.com/

Who makes up your art circle?

I love that Acadiana is so rich in creativity all around us. I'm lucky that my art circle is made up of the countless musicians, photographers, designers, painters, illustrators, writers, crafters, makers, and creatives that I also count as friends, family and colleagues.

How do you expand your art circle?

I try to get out of my bubble when I can, to see what everyone is creating. I also think it's important to reach out and let fellow artists know when something they created resonates with you. Being an artist can be isolating, working with our heads down, etc. I try to celebrate the work I love – and also buy it whenever possible. I want to fill my home with art that makes me happy – and supports local creativity.

What value do you see in having a creative community?

Having a richly creative community means support, not only financially, but just to keep going. I think creativity is infectious. I can't help but be inspired to create when I am constantly surrounded by local artists pushing themselves to do the same.

How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?

I believe that real change happens at the community level first. And since my early days of being a designer in Acadiana, some of my best connections and relationships were built on boards and committees aiming to improve our community. Once you identify your talents, it's so rewarding to find the causes that speak to you and offer those skills to those groups. It's a win-win.

Our weekly Art Circle series profiles artists throughout the community and is sponsored in part by Lafayette Visitor Enterprise Fund, managed by Lafayette Travel.