Photo by David NOLA Photography.
Canal Place
(Scrim’s Stop #4)
- Address: 333 Canal Street
- Website: canalplacestyle.com
- Construction Date: 1979
- Building Name: Canal Place
- Architect: August Perez & Associates
Artist & Installation Details
- Artist Name: Tyla Maiden
- Artwork Title: Seymora Canal
- Art Consulting, Concept, Creative Direction: Where y’Art Works
- Scrim and the Canal Street Menagerie Story: Where y’Art works
Narrated by Ivan Neville
Scrim made his way toward the river, slowing his pace, his eyes scanning for the perfect hideout for his afternoon nap.
“They’re looking for me, Seymora,” he muttered.
“Who’s looking for you? And what did you do this time?” Seymora asked, arching a perfectly groomed brow. “I was just about to go shopping, Scrim. We’ve got a big event tonight, and I absolutely must look my best. It’s a gathering to celebrate Canal Street. Have you heard about the efforts to bring it back?”
She motioned toward her bright orange handbag. “C’mon, you can rest in here. Jump in.”
As Scrim nestled inside, Seymora continued, her tone both proud and nostalgic.
“I come from a long line of ambassadors for the city,” she mused. “I’m the granddaughter of Seymour d’Fair—the official mascot of the 1984 World’s Fair. His name was a playful nod to See More of the Fair—a true embodiment of that Naturally N’awlins spirit.”
She winked. “That’s how I got my name, too. Seymora Canal. We wanted to capture the best of Canal Street—to invite people to See More of its magic.”
Even though the World’s Fair ended 40 years ago, its impact still lingers. The investments made back then helped shape modern New Orleans, leading to new landmarks like Canal Place.
“These improvements helped the city grow and become even more exciting—for those who live here and those who visit,” Seymora explained.
“That’s what we’re trying to do now, Scrim… pave the way for the future, starting right here on Canal Street.”
Her eyes sparkled with memories.
“My granddad used to tell me how everyone dressed in their finest to go shopping downtown. ‘I’m going to Canal Street,’ he’d say with such pride. It was the place to see and be seen. Ladies wore elegant dresses and black gloves in the winter, white gloves in the summer—always topped off with a tasteful chapeau.”
She sighed, reminiscing. “Some of my fondest memories are window shopping as a little pelican—seeing Mr. Bingle at Maison Blanche or meeting under the clock at D.H. Holmes. Canal Street was the premier shopping destination of the South. Back then, luxury retailers were everywhere, and now Canal Place has become the crown jewel of high-end shopping.”
Seymora tilted her head. “How about a bow tie, Scrim? Would you like to go with me tonight?”
Scrim peeked his head out of the handbag, his nose twitching.
“I smell bacon,” he declared.
A Glimpse Into The Past
Developed as part of a revitalization effort that coincided with the 1984 World’s Fair, Canal Place helped to modernize the riverfront area and grew to become the place where locals and World’s Fair visitors found luxury fashion, beauty products, home goods, and boutique clothing stores under one roof.
What’s Happening Now
Now, 40 years later, Canal Place remains an anchor along the riverfront of downtown New Orleans and is home to more than 60 luxury brands, many of which are one of only a few locations in the country.
Did You Know?
Canal Place was developed as part of a revitalization effort that coincided with the 1984 World’s Fair, helping to modernize the riverfront area.
Want to learn more?
Visit the Historic New Orleans Collection’s Vieux Carre Survey