Protecting the People Creating Culture | The Ella Project

"Send a text sharing your thoughts about the episode."New Orleans is celebrated around the world for its music, art, food, and traditions. So, what protects the people who create that culture?In this episode, Maurice Brungardt speaks with Ashlye Keaton and Gene Meneray of The Ella Project about the legal, business, and policy challenges facing Louisiana artists. From intellectual property rights and Mardi Gras Indian copyright protections to arts funding, affordability, artificial intelligence, and the future of New Orleans' cultural economy, they explore what it takes to sustain the artists and culture bearers who drive one of America's most distinctive creative ecosystems.Ashlye Keaton is a New Orleans-based intellectual property and entertainment attorney, educator, and cultural advocate. She co-founded The Ella Project, where she provides pro bono legal services to artists, musicians, filmmakers, and culture bearers throughout Louisiana. She is widely recognized for her work protecting Mardi Gras Indian intellectual property rights and teaches at both Tulane Law School and the University of New Orleans.Gene Meneray is a co-founder of The Ella Project and a longtime arts administrator and cultural advocate. A native New Orleanian, he has held leadership roles with the Arts Council of New Orleans, the Louisiana Crafts Guild, and YAYA (Young Aspirations Young Artists), and currently serves as Chair of the Louisiana State Arts Council. His work focuses on strengthening the intersection of culture, entrepreneurship, and economic development.