Here are some of the most-talented decoy carvers and artists in south Louisiana and the US.
Evans Pitre, born on September 23, 1959, in Golden Meadow, Louisiana, has deep roots in the rich traditions of Cajun culture. Raised in a family that cherished hunting and fishing, he was introduced to handmade decoys early on.
Gene Hebert, a distinguished carver from Houma, Louisiana, has dedicated over 40 years to the intricate art of decoy carving. His work has been prominently featured in major art shows, including the Easton Waterfowl Festival, Southeastern Wildlife Expo, and Florida Wildlife Expo.
Carl Danos has woven a remarkable life through his passion for carving.
He has earned the esteemed titles of World Champion, Master Carver, and Icon Award Winner and nearly 300 Best in Show awards. See Carl’s decoy gallery.> You may purchase his decoys. Contact Carl, (985) 691-7206
Painting everything from deer, gamefish, birds and ducks Courtney Foret portrays his love of our beautiful heritage of the bayous and his passion for its traditions. For more information regarding Courtney and his art work he can be reach via his Facebook account or (985) 232-1460.
Robby Matherne‘s journey into the world of carving began at the tender age of 11, under the guidance of Master Carver Carl Danos. His creations have found a permanent place in several prestigious museums, including the Bayou Folk Life Museum and the Ward Museum in Salisbury, MD. You may reach Robbie at (985) 228-0845.
Ricky Buras, a native of Plaquemine Parish, LA, discovered his passion for wood carving in 1974. Ricky was inspired by his grandfather’s legacy of carving “Old Style River Birds”- a style deeply rooted in both artistry and practicality, reflecting the birds once hunted along the Mississippi River. You may contact Ricky at (504) 912-1527.
Cal Kingsmill, born in New Orleans, is a distinguished carver, painter, and hunter with a rich history spanning over five decades. Cal has dedicated his life to the art of wooden decoy carving—a tradition he inherited from the renowned carvers of his neighborhood, including Joefrau, LaFrance, Fredericks, and Hutchison.
Gary Vizier is a distinguished decorative carver whose artistry reflects a deep-rooted family tradition. Gary’s journey into the world of carving began in his youth under the guidance of his father, Morris “Black” Vizier.
Dexter Neal began his journey into carving in the early 1990’s when he enrolled in Danos University, the prestigious institution renowned for its affiliation with master carver Carl Danos. Dexter’s expertise and passion for carving have been recognized through numerous awards including the Richard LeMaster Award at the World Competition in Ocean City, Maryland.
Scotty Bollinger hails from the Bayou Blue region of southern Louisiana, where his fascination with decoys ignited during his early years as a collector. You may contact him at Bollinger2277@gmail.com
Ray Gold is a native of Houma, Louisiana. His intricate carvings have garnered him recognition and accolades at various prestigious events. Notably, he has competed at the Ward World Championships in Ocean City, Maryland, where he earned the esteemed Richard LeMasters Award.
Aaron Breaux was born and raised in Larose, Louisiana. While wandering one day, he stumbled upon a scrap piece of Tupelo wood. Inspired, Aaron drew an alligator on the wood and began carving, marking the start of his journey into the art of wood carving.
Daniel Lafont, an accomplished carver, has established a notable presence in the world of carving through his dedication and passion for the craft. He is an active member of the Cajun Heritage Festival and the South Louisiana Wildfowl Carvers.
Ronald Foret Ronald’s fascination with the craft began in his youth, inspired by his distant relatives through marriage, Dewey Pertuit and Theodule Pertuit. This early influence ignited a lifelong passion for Ronald, leading him to explore and hone his own carving abilities
Gary Oncale calls Golden Meadow, Louisiana his home. After dedicating 40 years to a successful welding career, Oncale ventured into the art of carving where his artistic passion shines through in his ability to transform ordinary pieces of wood into beautiful works of art.