Lake Charles, Louisiana — The Imperial Calcasieu Museum will host a new photography exhibit, “After the Eye: The Wake of Hurricane Laura,” by local photographer Chad Moreno. The exhibition, which runs from Nov. 6, 2025, through Jan. 3, 2026, documents the destruction, emotional landscape, and recovery process following Hurricane Laura, which struck Southwest Louisiana in August 2020.
Moreno’s collection serves as a visual archive of the hurricane’s aftermath, chronicling the city’s transformation over five years. His images highlight not only physical devastation, but also the resilience and determination shown by the Lake Charles community during the rebuilding process.
A Five-Year Commitment to Storytelling
Moreno began capturing images in the immediate days following Hurricane Laura, one of the most powerful storms to make landfall in Louisiana’s history. The Category 4 hurricane brought winds exceeding 150 mph, causing widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure across the region.
According to Moreno, the project is a personal endeavor to document the community’s experiences. In an announcement for the exibit, Moreno said that it was important to to show not just the destruction, but also the emotions and efforts that followed—how people came together and what it meant for our city to rebuild.
The exhibit’s photographs trace key moments in Lake Charles’ recovery, from emergency response efforts to the gradual return of everyday life. Moreno’s work captures scenes of debris removal, home repairs, and the reopening of local landmarks, providing a comprehensive record of the city’s evolution.
Educational and Community Value
The exhibit is expected to attract residents who lived through the hurricane, as well as visitors seeking to understand the storm’s long-term effects.
Chad’s photography offers an important perspective on a defining moment for Lake Charles. It’s both a historical record and a tribute to the community’s spirit.
Opening Reception and Details
The exhibition will open with a reception on Nov. 6, where Moreno will be present to discuss his work and the stories behind specific photographs. Admission is open to the public.
Admission information, visiting hours, and additional details can be found on the Imperial Calcasieu Museum’s official website or via the event’s Facebook page.
The Importance of Documentation
While Hurricane Laura may have faded from national headlines, Moreno’s exhibit serves as a reminder of the persistent challenges facing Lake Charles and similar communities. Long-term documentation plays a crucial role in disaster studies, informing future preparedness and response efforts.
By chronicling both hardship and hope, “After the Eye” adds depth to the public’s understanding of the hurricane’s legacy and the ongoing evolution of Lake Charles.
For More Information
To learn more about the exhibit, contact the Imperial Calcasieu Museum in Lake Charles.