Carl Mack and the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture

Welcome to a special edition of Sew & So, brought to you by BERNINA — Made to Create. While attending BERNINA University in New Orleans, the Sew & So team had the privilege of sitting down with Carl Mack—artist, musician, storyteller, preservationist, and founder of the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture. As Carl welcomed us into his world, every answer sparked another fascinating story about the history, artistry, music, and traditions that have shaped Mardi Gras for generations.

From designing elaborate costumes to explaining the meaning behind Carnival customs, Carl's passion is contagious. More than a collector, he is a guardian of New Orleans culture, preserving not only spectacular costumes but the stories and people behind them.

Join us for this special Sew & So takeover as Carl Mack takes us on a colorful journey through one of the world's most celebrated cultural traditions.

(2:04) Meet Carl Mack

(2:50) How did the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture come to be?

(4:27) Carl takes us through the process of creating a Mardi Gras costume

(7:23) What is the history of the Mardi Gras colors purple, green and gold?

(8:42) Meet Alexis Romanoff and learn his influence on Mardi Gras

(10:26) Learn of Carl’s own special contribution to Mardi Gras

(11:16) What’s a Second Line parade?

(15:38) How long does it take to create a Mardi Gras costume?

(20:19) Carl provides definitions of common Mardi Gras terms.

(26:46) What’s the difference between Carnival and Mardi Gras?

(30:47) What does Carl want visitors to his museum to know before they arrive…and take away when they leave?

(32:41) Let’s talk a walk through the museum with Carl as our guide! He gives us an upfront and personal tour of his amazing collection and the history behind the costumes.

(37:35) Carl is the Captain of a Carnival Origination…the Krewe of Stars. Learn more about them…

(41:47) What costumes does Carl have that belong to Mardi Gras stars and royalty?

(44:17) What’s a Medici Collar?

(44:41) What about the Mardi Gras Indian costumes?

(45:36) Let’s sing along with Carl!!!

(46:19) Learn a little New Orleans Rock and Roll and Jazz history.

(47:52) Carl shares his own personal story of arriving and thriving in New Orleans.

(49:45) How can you contact Carl? www.themardigrasmuseum.com and on Instagram

(50:30) What question didn’t we ask him? This is pretty special!

Key Takeaways

• The fascinating history behind Mardi Gras and the broader Carnival season.
• How elaborate Mardi Gras costumes are designed and handcrafted.
• The symbolism of Mardi Gras colors: purple, green, and gold.
• The difference between Carnival and Mardi Gras.
• The traditions of Second Line parades and Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs.
• The artistry and cultural significance of Mardi Gras Indian suits.
• Carl Mack's personal journey from musician to museum founder.
• Why preserving stories is just as important as preserving costumes.
• The role of Carnival Krewes and Mardi Gras royalty in New Orleans culture.
• How the Mardi Gras Museum brings New Orleans history to life through interactive exhibits and storytelling.

Additional Background

The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture, founded by Carl Mack, is located in New Orleans' historic French Quarter. The museum features one of the city's largest private collections of Mardi Gras costumes, including royal regalia, Mardi Gras Indian suits, Social Aid & Pleasure Club attire, Cajun Mardi Gras costumes, and interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience Carnival traditions firsthand. Carl, originally a percussionist and street performer known as "The Xylophone Man," has spent more than four decades immersed in New Orleans culture and is also co-captain of the Krewe of Stars Carnival organization. His mission is to preserve not only the spectacular costumes but also the stories, traditions, and communities that make Mardi Gras unique.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.