Her work is innovative and interesting and illustrates the kind of dedication to the Mardi Gras tradition that folklorists truly like to see. Launey's talents have earned her the title of Master Craftsman Folk Artist in the state of Louisiana. As such, Launey spends much of the year demonstrating her skills and promoting the traditions of Mardi Gras at schools and festivals statewide. It's gotten a very ugly reputation. Mardi Gras celebrates the fullness of life before the sacrifices of Lent begin, Launey explains.
Communities observe the occasion in different ways.
Tee Mamou, a tiny settlement outside Iota, hosts the Mardi Gras Run, an event which has little to do with the intoxicated revelry of the New Orleans celebration. It brings the community together, Launey says. It's about fellowship. Dressed in elaborate costumes that completely shroud one's identity, the celebrants visit about a dozen homes where they sing, dance, and clown around. Or they might whirl into the fields and start stuffing onion tops into their pockets.