2026 Louisiana Mardi Gras Unisex Cotton Long Sleeve Shirt (with Augmented Reality)

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Commissioned by Congressman Steve Scalise and "King" Gray Stream of Lake Charles, “Liberty & Lagniappe” celebrates the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America and the 2026 Washington Mardi Gras.  

The inspiration for this work came from Emanuel Leutze’s classic “Washington Crossing the Delaware” and the Franklin flag.  

In Alexander's version, a proud Louisiana alligator leads the charge across the Potomac beneath the glowing U.S. Capitol. The alligator carries both the American and French flags — symbols of unity, resilience, and shared spirit — as the river reflects a journey of freedom, faith, and fortitude.

This work also subtly recognizes the 2026 Louisiana Mardi Gras King's affiliation with Lake Charles, La by placing crossed pistols from the I-10 bridge on the hat.  The background is painted with a stain using Louisiana coffee along with a flour-de-lis detail which is historically affiliated with royalty.

The composition intertwines history with Louisiana flair, uniting the spirit of 1776 with the rhythm and color of Mardi Gras. With guidance and inspiration from Gray Stream and Congressman Scalise, artist Candice Alexander brings together liberty and lagniappe — reminding us that the heart of America still beats with Louisiana pride.

💜💚💛 A celebration of history, unity, and the enduring art of Louisiana.