Beautifying St. Roch: Sarah Ambrose’s Hand-Painted Bench Installation

UPDATE: St. Roch Avenue Beautification Project

The heart of St. Roch is getting a touch of art and community spirit with the installation of a unique new bench on the neutral ground of St. Roch Avenue and North Johnson. This is no ordinary bench; it’s a work of art, hand-painted by the talented local folk artist Sarah Ambrose.

Hand painted by Sarah Ambrose

As part of an ongoing beautification project led by the NOLA Artist Incubator, this bench is more than just a place to sit—it’s a celebration of the neighborhood’s culture and creativity, inspired by traditional herbal medicines. Adjacent to the newly installed “Welcome to St. Roch” sign and native plant garden, the bench adds to the inviting and colorful atmosphere of the location.

Installing the new seating

This project has been brought to life with the support of the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Engagement and the New Orleans Culture and Recreation Fund. Their commitment to enhancing the community’s public spaces has made it possible for the NOLA Artist Incubator to showcase local artists like Sarah, in meaningful ways.

Finished with mulch to match the native plant garden

The bench installation is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the NOLA Artist Incubator, bringing together art, nature, and community engagement. The new addition to providing seating for residents and visitors alike to enjoy, the new bench reflects the artistic and diverse character of the neighborhood. Come by and take a peak at Sarah Ambrose’s masterpiece, and experience the beauty and creativity that St. Roch has to offer.