Museum exhibition explores Rex role in Mardi Gras history

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser and the Louisiana State Museum announce the opening of a new exhibition, Rex: The 150th Anniversary of the School of Design, at the Presbytère.
Just in time for Mardi Gras, this new exhibit celebrates the history and contributions of the Rex organization to the Carnival season, and commemorates the sesquicentennial of the organization. Since its founding in 1872, Rex, also known by its official name, the School of Design, has taken on an unparalleled leadership role in Carnival, setting the standard of excellence for the dozens of krewes formed since then.
An exciting feature of the exhibition will be a specially built float installed in one of the exhibition galleries by the krewe’s float builder, Royal Artists, demonstrating the techniques and materials used to construct Rex’s elaborate, historically inspired floats.
An extensive array of educational programs scheduled throughout the run of the exhibition will draw on the krewe’s incorporated name, the School of Design, with a goal of aiding students and families in creating works of art inspired by the krewe’s artistic legacy.
The museum will also offer enriching sensory-friendly programs for children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Rex: The 150th Anniversary of the School of Design will be on display to the public in the Presbytère, 751 Chartres St., through through Dec. 11.