Although people think of Mardi Gras as an especially colorful form of entertainment, it is also an art form—actually several art forms.

First, there is the art of creating a Mardi Gras. This requires a sizeable arts and crafts industry, employing artists and artisans working full time all year round, designing and making floats, costumes, masks and related paraphernalia.

And then there is the art that is about Mardi Gras. This includes Carnival-inspired paintings, prints and fine arts, ...