Introducing Jade DesHotel

Jade DesHotel is a mixed-media artist from South Louisiana, located two hours outside of New Orleans—a city known for its soul, rhythm, and eclectic, buzzing vibe.  She brings a multi-layered perspective to her work, carrying that same feeling of soul, eclecticism, and aliveness. Each piece is an exploration of presence, authenticity, and the beauty of what it means to be fully human.

Jade was trained at the Milan Art Institute, with a background that spans painting, interior design, French language and culture, and the healing arts. Her work has been featured internationally, including The Palette Project in NSW, Australia; her solo exhibition Living with (He)art, the Rice Capital Art Competition & Exhibition, and the Lafayette Art Association's Eye of the Behold Competition & Exhibition in Louisiana; and in real estate development projects in both Louisiana and Arizona.

Jade is currently an artist resident at both NUNU Arts & Culture Collective in Arnaudville, LA, and Basin Arts in Lafayette, LA. She works from her prolific studio at Basin Arts, offering consultations and creating original works for luxury spaces around the world.  Her goal is to infuse a sense of soul and freedom into spaces, sparking inspiration and creating memories that last long after the first impression.

Who makes up your art circle?

These days, my art circle includes creatives from all over the world—from my family to my friends and colleagues at Basin Arts and NUNU Arts & Culture Collective, to my fellow artists and classmates from the Milan Art Institute, and my friends in Australia. But honestly, I’ve been surrounded by creative people my whole life. My uncle, a welder, and my grandfather, a carpenter, were also musicians who played in the Mamou Mardi Gras bandstand every year. My grandmothers were amazing seamstresses, crocheters, and knitters. My brother has such an eye for photography—he captures the most stunning natural landscapes—and my sister-in-law is creative on so many levels, from sewing and music to interior decorating. My sweet little niece is already showing that same spark, whether it’s in theater, painting, baking, or whatever she dreams up next. And even though my parents wouldn’t call themselves “creatives,” my mom is a wonderful cook and “holiday decorator,” and the way my dad chops wood, builds a campfire, and rebuilds engines is pure poetry.

How do you expand your art circle?

I love meeting new people, and I truly believe that everyone is creative in their own way—we were created to be creators! For me, it’s all about staying curious about my fellow humans and the stories that shape them. Lately, I’ve been expanding my art circle through my art residencies, getting to know the incredible network of artists around Acadiana and discovering the creative opportunities they’re cultivating here.  

What value do you see in having a creative community?

Having a creative community is truly invaluable. In his book Real Artists Don’t Starve, Jeff Goins talks about how essential community is for artists—and I couldn’t agree more. Art isn’t really about individualism; it’s about how we, as unique individuals, connect with the world and with one another. I believe a healthy, thriving creative community is the foundation for meaningful art. As artists, we need each other—as sounding boards, as launch pads, and as collaborators—to share our work, our message, and to create positive change in the world.

How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?

The message behind my work is that we’re all free to be our most authentic selves—and when we find the courage to do that, we discover our inner freedom. I see my art as a playful reminder of that truth. When people encounter my work, I hope they feel a spark of that same freedom within themselves—that it inspires them, lights up their own creativity, and reminds them that they, too, are free to express who they truly are.  

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