Introducing Suellen Coelho

Suellen Coelho, a feminist scholar and artist, is an Assistant Professor of Costume Design at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She holds an M.F.A. from L.S.U., where she researched identity and the African diaspora. Originally from Brazil, she worked as a costume designer in fashion, music, and media. Previously, she was the resident costume designer and an assistant professor at Hollins University, earning the 2022 Best Non-Tenure-Track Professor award. Her teaching and design work are shaped by her research on identity and feminism.

Who makes up your art circle?

My coworkers in the Dance Theatre program at UL and members of the Louisiana diversity community.

How do you expand your art circle?

I expand my art circle by showing up, attending local shows, supporting fellow artists, and engaging in conversations that build genuine relationships. I love collaborating across different areas of the arts, which naturally brings new people into my creative world.

What value do you see in having a creative community?

I value the diversity, the meaningful conversations, and the exchange of ideas that inspire my creative process and strengthen my designs. The dance community in Lafayette has also been incredibly welcoming and supportive.

How does your artistic approach contribute to your community?

My design work is deeply rooted in collaboration. Being able to design in Louisiana allows me to absorb and reflect the region’s rich cultural diversity in my creative practice.

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