A beloved New Orleans Mardi Gras float artist is facing significant health issues, and the community is rallying to help him.
Raymond Bowie, a self-taught artist known for painting hundreds of Mardi Gras floats, is receiving support from the community amid a cancer diagnosis.
Anyone who was along the parade route during Muses likely saw Bowie’s artistry on full display.
The Krewe of Muses calls him their Apollo.
He’s been painting for over 50 years for organizations like the Krewe of Muses, the Rex organization, Endymion.
Bowie has brought meticulous detail, ingenuity, and care to every float he paints, making Mardi Gras more magical every year.
“He’s the best, the best of the best,” said Virginia Saussy, Muses chairwoman.
However, Bowie is now unable to pick up a brush.
“A few months ago, Raymond was diagnosed with cancer. He’s had two strokes, he’s not able to paint anymore, and he needs constant help,” Saussy said.
In response, Bowie’s wife reached out to members of the Krewe of Muses, who decided to take action to support the family.
“So his wife talked to some of the Muses, and we decided we wanted to do something to help the family,” Saussy said.
The fundraiser, which directly benefits the Bowie family, has already raised over $5,000.
“Raymond is just an amazing guy, and he’s touched Mardi Gras in such a special way. He’s had a huge impact on our Mardi Gras community and on Mardi Gras itself, so we just want to try to help him out in his time of need,” said Saussy.
To view the fundraiser, click here.
READ MORE:Krewe of Muses rallying behind beloved Mardi Gras floater decorator who was diagnosed with cancer
