Leadership Northshore Class of 2026 Invite Public to Northshore Trashformation Opening Reception
Slidell Mayor Randy Fandal and the Leadership Northshore Class of 2026 invite the public to attend the opening reception for “Northshore Trashformation” on Friday, Sept. 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. The exhibit will be displayed at the George Dunbar Gallery in the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall.
Dr. Bob, a renowned New Orleans folk artist whose signature “BE NICE OR LEAVE” signs have become a popular part of the area’s culture, serves as the juror for this exhibit.
Northshore Trashformation features both 2D and 3D artwork created from litter and unused materials collected by participating artists. The exhibit is an eco-art initiative designed to transform how the community sees litter. By using art as a catalyst for change, the project turns environmental challenges into opportunities for education, engagement, and long-term sustainability within St. Tammany Parish.
The idea for the project was inspired while a member of the team was vacationing in Mexico and saw large wire fish sculptures serving as interactive recycle bins for plastic bottles. As the bottles accumulated, the sculptures became works of art built from literal trash, offering an exciting example of both the problem and the solution. Inspired by that concept, the team brought the idea to Slidell.
“I want to thank the Leadership Northshore Trashformation Team for organizing this exhibit and bringing this creative solution to help address the serious problem of litter in our community,” said Mayor Randy Fandal. “They say one man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and that is definitely the case with Northshore Trashformation. I invite everyone in the community to come see how these artists turned trash into treasured artwork.”
Northshore Trashformation worked with the Olde Towne Arts Commission and the City of Slidell’s Department of Cultural & Public Affairs to engage artists and assist in planning this event. Additional support for the project came from Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, Keep Slidell Beautiful, and Keep Louisiana Beautiful, which partnered on cleanup days and financial support.
Leadership Northshore is a development program that brings together emerging and established leaders from our area to build relationships, strengthen connections, and create a lasting impact in our community. The Northshore Trashformation Team includes Amy Anderson, Lisa Bartels, Julie Brooks, George Dupuis, Kisha Gant, Cynthia Flowers, Rachel Litchliter, and Kerri Soo, with mentors Glen Boyer and Sandy Swartz. Each class works collaboratively in teams on projects designed to address local needs and inspire positive change throughout the Northshore.
Northshore Trashformation will remain on display from Sept. 21 through Oct. 22, 2026. The George Dunbar Gallery is located at 2055 Second Street in the Slidell Cultural Center at City Hall. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. by appointment only. Same day appointments are available by calling the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375. Admission to both the opening reception and the exhibition is free and open to the public.
For more information about City of Slidell news and events, visit our website at MySlidell.com, follow the “City of Slidell” on Facebook and Instagram, or call the Department of Cultural & Public Affairs at (985) 646-4375.
