LSU Alumni Spotlight: Sharika Madhi

LSU Alumna Sharika Mahdi Brings New Orleans Flair to Disney’s ‘Tiana’s Bayou Adventure’

When Disney Imagineers began planning a new ride, “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure,” based on the 2009 movie, “The Princess and the Frog,” they embraced New Orleans since the story is loosely based on the late Chef Leah Chase. To authentically reflect Tiana’s story, they consulted and collaborated with academics, musicians, and artists from the New Orleans area, including LSU alumna Sharika Mahdi.  

Sharika Madhi, left, with Charita Carter, a Disney Imagineer

Chase, known as the “Queen of Creole Cuisine,” worked to uplift her community through her management at Dooky Chase’s, a renowned Louisiana restaurant, and active involvement in social justice activities that fostered civil liberties and equality. One of her most prized contributions was advocating for the Civil Rights Movement by feeding those on the front lines of the fight.  

Chase inspired Tiana’s character, shown as a hardworking and ambitious chef from New Orleans. In the movie, Tiana dreams of owning a restaurant, but after kissing a frog prince, they are led on an adventure through the bayous of Louisiana.  

Sharika Mahdi’s Artistic Vision Helps Shape Disney Ride

Disney commissioned Sharika Mahdi, a New Orleans artist, to paint four paintings with themes including Mardi Gras, family tradition, Mama Odie (a voodoo priestess from the movie), and frogs in the bayou. Mahdi was given creative control, and her paintings inspired the Imagineers responsible for bringing the ride to life.

Mahdi notes that the process of being commissioned by Disney was unique because, at first, she was only asked to produce conceptual sketches. 

“To be asked to create paintings was a surprise and I am thrilled to have created artwork that represents a great Disney film and also captures the essence of my hometown,” she says.  

Mahdi says the project meant a lot to her, especially since it exposed her art on a national scale. She says, “I can also be an inspiration for others to never give up on your gift.” 

Sharika Mahdi’s Roots and LSU Experience

Sharika Mahdi grew up in a large family bathed in New Orleans culture. She began drawing as a kid, and by tenth grade, she was invited to participate in a group show at a local art gallery. She received a bachelor’s degree in mass communications with a minor in the arts from LSU and later a master’s in public relations. Mahdi describes her experience at LSU as wonderful. 

“I made a lot of lifelong friends and as a communication major, I found ways to be creative by participating in student committees and organizations on campus,” she says. Mahdi explains that her classes motivated her to explore her creativity and artistic ability.  

After receiving her degrees, she joined the corporate world, working in fashion and event management. She now works as a talented art teacher at Albert Cammon Middle School in St. Charles Parish.  

Inspiring Future Generations Through Art

Mahdi predominantly uses acrylic paints to illustrate themes of hope and happiness and utilizes social content relating to homeless issues and cultural preservation. She is currently producing new artwork and exhibiting her work around the country and wants to write a series of children’s picture books. 

“I also plan to use my unique experiences to inspire and educate aspiring artists,” she says.  

Before the ride’s official opening on June 28, Mahdi was invited to experience “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” in Disney World, Florida, where it replaced “Splash Mountain.” 

“It was cool to see a lot of the elements in my painting included in the ride,” she says.  

“Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” opened in Disney Land, California, on Nov. 15.