The Smith & Wisznia collection’s singular focus: artists living, working and exhibiting in Louisiana post Hurricane Katrina. Louisiana during this period of renewal, rebirth, and rebuilding experienced an art renaissance. There was a migration of creatives from all areas of life to Louisiana: Musicians, Fashion Designers, Architects, Writers and Visual Artists congregated, forming a vibrant foundation of cultural declaration and inspiration. The artists in the Smith & Wisznia collection were on the front lines when ’all hope was abandoned’. Louisiana and its inhabitants were in a state of turmoil, hopelessness and uncertainty. We needed honest, fearless and visionary artists to articulate our collective consciousness which would undoubtedly spearhead a catalyst for catharsis. The artwork secured for this collection is an enlightening correspondence of its examination on race, sex, gender equality and humanity. This art book allows its readership to view and participate in a necessary and relevant dialogue. The Smith & Wisznia Collection features artists of color, women, LGBTQ and artists of diverse religious backgrounds. The Art World’s current trend has shifted to visual artists who have been marginalized and or discriminated against who are now being exhibited in galleries and museums Worldwide to a welcoming and exuberant audience. The Smith & Wisznia Collection is a window into a collector’s and curator’s vision, focus and commitment and their collective’s contributions to the landscape of Contemporary Art and Society.