Earl Barth, a sixth generation master of the plastering art, has passed away.

Mr. Barth is representative of one of the little know aspects of New Orleans art and creativity.

Known for its music and food, New Orleans was and remains one of the bastions of high level craftsmanship in the building trades. New Orleans craftsmen were in demand around the country and their work can be seen in places as far flung as Chicago and Washington DC.

In 2008, scholars and music lovers gathered at the Sound Cafe in New Orleans for to hear some of these men talk about their dual lives and craftsmen and musicians – and to hear them play.

– Ken McCarthy
FoodMusicJustice