Introducing Madelyn Galatas

Madelyn Galatas is a Lafayette, LA-based multidisciplinary artist and printmaker. Madelyn’s artistic journey began in her childhood, beginning with sketching and drawing. She pursued a formal art education starting at Saint Thomas More Catholic High School, where she received two art scholarships from the George Rodrigue Foundation. This gave her the opportunity to have her art showcased in multiple museums throughout Louisiana for two years. Her studies were further enriched at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, earning a BFA in Visual Arts with a concentration in printmaking. She recently had her art displayed in the 2025 Juried Art Exhibition at ULL.

Currently, Madelyn is a live painter for weddings and events, as well as regularly taking commissions for drawings and window paintings. Madelyn also works as a part-time social media manager for two companies and  helps design jewelry pieces for her family's business.

Madelyn’s artistic themes explore the relationship between her own humanity and nature, the beauty of the natural world, and the power of color to invoke emotion. She often uses layering and texture to create depth and complexity in her work, inviting viewers to explore the nuances of her abstract prints. Nature and the way life works have always been important to her, as growing up in the Bayou had a great influence on her life and artwork.

Who makes up your art circle?

My inner circle, consisting of my family, my boyfriend Jude, and my best friend Claudia, is the driving force behind my art. My family has been my foundation since the beginning, constantly providing the inspiration and encouragement I need to pursue a creative career. I met Claudia in our college Visual Arts program, and she has become my primary confidante. Whether she’s listening to a wild new concept or challenging me to improve, she and my family make me feel incredibly lucky to have such a strong belief system behind my work.

How do you expand your art circle?

To expand my art circle, I put myself directly into the community after graduation by becoming an Artist Assistant for Dirk Guidry. Working out of his studio at Basin Arts has opened many doors and introduced me to fellow artists I otherwise wouldn't have met. I’ve also found that participating in workshops is another excellent way to build new connections!

What value do you see in having a creative community?

Through my work with Dirk Guidry, I’ve seen firsthand how art strengthens the Lafayette community. His current mural project for the Children’s Museum is a perfect example: it has engaged the public and fostered a spirit of "businesses supporting businesses." It shows that a creative community isn't just about the artists; it’s about a shared experience that everyone can benefit from.

How does your artistic approach contribute to  your community?

I contribute to my community by creating art that honors my origins. By sharing how my environment has shaped my creative identity, I aim to reflect our shared history. My ultimate goal is for my work to give back to the community that has provided me with so much inspiration and support.

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