Introducing Colette Bernard

Visual artist Colette Bernard (she/they) creates colorful, wearable designs that feel like the lovechild between sculpture, graphic design, and fashion. Born and raised in Acadiana, the culturally rich heart of south Louisiana, Colette weaves elements of pop culture, saturated color, collage, and her identity as a southern queer person through all of her designs. She has also cultivated a loyal following across TikTok and Instagram, which has fueled the growth of her brand into a diverse collection of hair claws, clips, rugs, and scarves and attracted the attention of outlets like the New York Times and ArtNet News. 

Artist Colette designs are made for anyone who sees accessories as a canvas for art and self-expression. With standout pieces like the beloved Career Claws and other designs that appeal to niche communities, Colette’s work proves that fashion can be both deeply personal and universally fun.

Who makes up your art circle?

Oh man, where do I even start! I’m really close with the friends and professors I met while studying at Pratt. I’m also lucky to run two creative small businesses powered by an amazing team of artists and makers, so I’m constantly surrounded by creative energy. I’m deeply grateful for that. I’ve also formed a lot of friendships online through a mutual appreciation of each other’s art and work.

How do you expand your art circle?

Most of my connections have come through shared work experiences, school, and most importantly: the internet! You don’t need a big platform to make creative friends online. Reach out directly to people whose work you admire. Curating for my design store, Cocodrie Collective, has also been a great way to connect with new artists in a post-grad setting.

What value do you see in having a creative community?

There’s an unspoken understanding that artwork is work. Mentorship and advice flow naturally in creative spaces, and when we focus on community over competition, everyone benefits. There’s room for all of us to succeed in our own ways—that’s what makes the art world so special.

How does your artistic approach contribute to your community? 

As an accessory designer, I always think about the person wearing my work. My goal is to create pieces that empower people to express themselves and feel connected through art, because when someone wears my design, they’re becoming part of the creative story too.

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