Gators on the Geaux is a public art extravaganza that will showcase Southwest Louisiana as an eccentric and creative community. Gators on the Geaux in Ten Pin Alley will feature three fiberglass life-size gators that measure five and one feet standing. The gators will be purchased by the City of Lake Charles, designed by artists, and installed in Ten Pin Alley, located in the heart of downtown Lake Charles. Two gators have already been completed and installed.

Ten Pin Alley is the strip of land that runs between the Cathedral and the Phoenix Building and connects Historic City Hall with present-day City Hall. The City recently completed infrastructure investments for better lighting and aesthetics and newly designed sculpture pads where the gators will be permanently housed.

The project is part of a city-wide initiative to add public art and an awareness of its benefits to the community’s quality of life. The project is spearheaded by the City of Lake Charles with support from the Lake Charles Symphony and the Arts & Humanities Council of SWLA.

“Gators on the Geaux” was created by the Arts Council of SWLA and the Lake Charles Symphony designed to make public art accessible, to expand tourism, and to have fun!

All designs must be submitted to the City for approval and final selection for Ten Pin Alley. No gator will be released to an artist without prior design approval. Ideally, we are searching for Louisiana or, more specifically, SWLA themes to showcase the culture and beauty of our region and/or state.

The success of this project lies in creativity and artistry. Accordingly, the project does not allow for any direct advertising of a product, company's name, libel, slander, or social disrespect. The City reserves the right to reject, censor or delete artist submissions. No gator will be released to an artist without prior City approval.

The artist has the right to add appendages to the basic fiberglass gator. Proposed additions must be made clear at the time of the original submission to the City. Materials used must follow these guidelines.

Artists are required to work with approved types of paints and finishes to ensure the longevity of the artwork on the gator fiberglass surfaces. All materials must withstand climatic conditions and be safe and durable enough for the public to touch.

Submitting this application does not guarantee your acceptance. Historic City Hall will review applications after the submission deadline of August 2.