Degas House Celebrates 150 Years of Impressionism By Continuing to Honor Edgar Degas’ Legacy

New Orleans-based historic site, boutique hotel, and event venue, Degas House remembers the impact of impressionism over 150 years since its inception.

Defined by the French Ministry of Culture as significant markers of the nation’s history, Maisons des Illustres are remarkable locations globally that showcase France’s diverse heritage encompassing rich discoveries in the arts, literature, science, and other schools of thought.

Within the United States, Degas House is one of two Maisons des Illustres and arguably the most prestigious nationally, purchased and renovated by a historian and retired international airline pilot – David Villarrubia. Due to this background, he embarked on frequent layovers to Paris, which inspired his research.

In the mid-1990s, Degas House evolved from a modest New Orleans home to a popular cultural location hosting tours by his great-grand niece, housing visitors, and highlighting the unique traits of Edgar Degas’ artistry.

Born Hilaire-Germain-Edgar De Gas in 1834, this man was a pivotal figure during Impressionism despite his desire to be seen as a realist. Degas is most famous for his pastel drawings, oil paintings, and bronze sculptures innovatively depicting movement. Much of Degas’ work captured ballet dancers from unexpected angles, challenging conventional composition techniques.

Besides his intriguing portfolio, Degas’ heritage is quite intriguing. His mother was an American Creole from New Orleans, which influenced his outlook on the world and, ultimately, his artistic creations. One of Degas’ most prominent works, Portraits in an Office: The New Orleans Cotton, was created while he spent several months living in the city with his mother’s extended family. Now a welcoming venue for wedding ceremonies, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts, Degas House is a stunning feature on Esplanade Avenue that has been visited by French President Emmanuel Macron and other prestigious individuals passionate about French and Creole history.

As the only public Degas home in the world, this quaint 18th-century home has wide verandas, decorative ironwork, and spacious rooms guests can marvel at as they learn about the struggles and triumphs of Edgar Degas. The museum’s education and cultural programming extends past its guided Impressionism tours and bed and breakfast amenities to include a newly opened cafe, bar, and art classes offering unconventional ways to absorb the home’s history.

“Our new cafe is named after his studio, Atelier. This is where he painted, and we have also opened a small bar across from his studio,” David says. “As a nod to L’Absinthe by Degas, here, guests can sample aged liquors and order carefully crafted cocktails. People learn better with a drink in their hand and good food on their plates, so we hope that these additions to the Degas House shape the venue into a thriving hub for sharing knowledge and connecting with others.”

Unlike other historical landmarks, Degas House has the spirit of a home that functions as a museum and a hotel. Visitors can trace the steps of the Degas family through immersive experiences unhindered by the hands of time. David and the rest of the staff at Degas House make this possible by memorializing this talented man’s life and honoring his achievements, challenges, and humanity. They recently held an event to remember Degas’ death, speaking to their ongoing passion for sharing the beauty and realism of this overlooked historical figure.

Media Contact
Name: David Villarrubia
Email: david@degashouse.com