Festival International de Louisiane is proud to announce that Louisiana’s legendary artist Francis Pavy has been selected as the Official Visual Artist for Festival 2026. As the chosen artist for the event’s 40th Anniversary year, Francis has completed the official artwork that will represent this world-renowned cultural celebration, which draws attendees from around the globe to downtown Lafayette each spring.

Dubbed the “Picasso of Zydeco” by Rolling Stone magazine, Francis X. Pavy (b. 1954) is a Louisiana-based visual artist celebrated for his vibrant and evocative paintings that capture the spirit of Cajun culture. Born in Lafayette, Pavy’s work is influenced by the folklore, music, and traditions of South Louisiana, blending elements of history, mysticism, and memory into striking, narrative-driven compositions. 

“It's a great privilege to be chosen as the artist for the 40th year of Festival International.” said Pavy. “This festival is one of the heartbeats of our community, and to be chosen to capture that vibrant, multicultural energy for such a milestone—the big 40th anniversary—is humbling. It’s a chance to put a work out there for hundreds of thousands of people to connect with. I feel a mix of excitement, humility, and incredible responsibility.”

Francis knows the festival better than most, as he has been attending the annual music and arts festival since the very beginning in 1987. His impact within the art scene locally has been monumental, but his reach goes far beyond this state’s borders.

Pavy’s artistic practice includes printmaking, sculpture, mixed media, Virtual and Augmented reality to further explore the visual storytelling that defines his career. His career was shaped by his close connections with Louisiana’s thriving music scene, leading to artwork that pulses with the rhythm and energy of zydeco, blues, and Cajun music. Festival International’s organizers are thrilled for his work to represent Festival International, and Lafayette, for this landmark year. 

“It’s been incredible watching Francis bring this piece of art to life; seeing each step of his creative process and hearing his stories along the way.” said Sylvie Wartelle, Vendor & Merchandise Director. 

The Festival team wanted something unique this year, and decided that bringing the Pavy family together, Francis and his daughter Annabelle Pavy, to complete the artwork, pin and poster together, would be an extraordinary opportunity. 

“Collaborating with Annabelle Pavy of Pavy Studio on the pin and poster designs made the process feel even more special!” added Wartelle. “It’s a great collaboration, and a beautiful example of the Festival’s multigenerational spirit.”

Annabelle has just finalized the 2026 pin and poster, which are based off of her father’s official art piece. The duo’s natural ability to create beauty together has set a tone for the upcoming festival.

“I was raised by two deeply creative parents. I have always had an innate inclination towards craftsmanship and creative exploration. In recent years, I have primarily focused on my skills in graphic design, illustration, and typography while working alongside my mother at our creative agency, Pavy Studio.”

The pin, poster and artwork will be revealed by Festival International de Louisiane and the Pavy Family on March 1, 2026 at the annual Premiere Party. Save the date and stay tuned for details about the event at www.festivalinternational.org.

Learn more about Francis Pavy’s work at www.pavy.com

Francis Pavy