Hand Painted Costume Designs in Watercolor, Acrylics, and Mixed Media

John Zeringue’s Original Illustrations of Mardi Gras Designs where begun as acrylic & Mixed Media paintings on watercolor stock.  Today they are done with more control and the use of Watercolor and mixed media. A few of his Original Illustrations of Mardi Gras Designs are currently on display are included in the exhibit “Grand Illusions: The History and Artistry of Gay Carnival in New Orleans” Exhibit at The Louisiana State Museum – Presbytère in Jackson Square.  The Exhibit runs June 6, 2019 to December 6, 2020 (learn more)

mardi gras designs Mythic Deity - Ra Captains Costume by John Zeringue
Krewe of Amon-Ra  "Mythic Deity - Ra" designed for Barry Rutherford - Captain 2011 by John Zeringue

Process of creating costumes, start with the wire form.

Mardi Gras Designs creates Custom Designed Wire Work using Traditional Techniques,
Galvanized Wire Soldered.  Costume Projects by first-come basis.
Time restrictions your design may require may not allow us to take on your project this Mardi Gras Season.

View Samples of Completed Costumes From Past Years

Since 1995, John Zeringue is trained by apprentice of Mike Moreau, working along side him until his retirement.  John started Mardi Gras Designs by John Zeringue to continue the traditional techniques Mr. Moreau had taught him,  while incorporating his own flair in his Mardi Gras Designs.

The Photographs included in the Mardi Gras Designs Costume Gallery are mostly John Zeringue’s Personal work, however some collaborative work may be represented as well.

Mardi Gras Designs Video Clips and More of Costumes Designed for Carnival in New Orleans.