No. 1: August 28, 2014
Me and MGB

Allow me to introduce us. I am a lifelong New Orleanian, formerly full-time, but now a devoted resident both of the Crescent City and Woodville, MS where I own and operate Studio 137, just East of the town square. My husband Jim Derbes, the “visionary maniac” who brought me here,

will be referred to as “MGB” since that’s what he was driving when we first met over forty years ago. Together we have restored two historic buildings in this tiny town, and a third restoration is under way. My background is in art; and you might say that I am also the art consultant to these projects. I was a museum associate director and curator, a jewelry designer and a gallery owner – all in New Orleans. Here in W’ville my Studio 137 on Boston Row features the work of artists and craftspeople whom I have come to know and admire. The Studio is my way of sharing those experiences with the W’ville community.

If what I have to say here is life-changing, pearls of wisdom you can take to heart or prompts an epiphany for you, the reader, you have my assurance that such is a mere coincidence. I hold no keys and have basically forgotten much of what I’ve learned.