“After Taste”

Adrianna Benavides is a Xicana art educator, designer, and stylist from Magnolia Park, Houston, Texas. She holds a BA in Studio Art and Art History from Occidental College (Los Angeles, California). Benavides utilizes contemporary art and streetwear as tools to make connections and create meaningful dialogue with her community. Her business, Audly Creative, is a platform for compassion, community art projects, and styling fearless and bold looks for all body shapes and sizes.

@audly.creative

“Amor Eterno”

Alejandra Quintos is a Mexican American Film photographer from Houston, Texas. She is a proud Chicana representing her version of documentary and portrait photography. Along side instax/Polaroid opportunities. Striving to provide everyone with a different perspective through her lens, when capturing the beauty of this rare world and supporting multiple communities.

@saborquintos

“Femme Fatale”

Alexej Matejka is a photographer, writer and artist from Houston, Texas. Alexej creates pieces that are a reflection of her experiences as a woman who has struggled with mental illness, domestic abuse, sexual assault, and the light she found and created in between these moments.

@alexej_photo

“Woman in the leaves”

The work is an expression and an investigation of what feels like a return to girlhood and a second puberty. As I have approached my late twenties, my body has once again started changing significantly, catapulting me back to a space of rediscovery of who I am and will be, while holding memories of what it was first like to experience vast change amongst the landscape of my flesh as a girl. Though the artwork doesn’t depict bodies or parts explicitly, I aim to rather illustrate through lush collage what these changes feel like, wandering through the desert, seeing mirages that look familiar and strange at once, searching, but more so simply walking through the valley of change once again.

@byalexissimone

http://www.byalexissimone.com

“713Kewpie” 16x20

Born and raised in Rosenberg, TX, 1992, I’ve always had a passion for art. I’ve grown from graphite pencil sketches, to logo making, and now acrylic paints. I leave my work open for interpretation. I would rather the intimacy of my work provoke feelings within yourself of reflection, however, I am always happy to share the stories behind my pieces.

@amandalandin.art

“Gripping Depths” 10x10

Amy Ritchey is a Houston based collage and mixed media artist. Each collage is hand cut with images

sourced from vintage books and magazines. “Collage art for me is mostly an outlet to express my emotions, thoughts, and experiences.”

@void.dwellerr

“divina”

Andrea Karolina is a Peruvian American photographer based in Texas who specializes in studio and lifestyle photography. Her journey began in 2016 through lifestyle photography & journalism. In 2021, Andrea began to submerge herself in the art community of Houston and it transformed her expression and style. She now strives to create safe spaces of expression for people in the community and is committed to her personal growth as an artist.

@dreakarolina

“Energía Eternizada” 28 1/4 x 22 1/4

Taking the vessel as a metaphor for the ego, this piece is a mixed media work which incorporates pan pastels, paint, and found objects to illustrate a very specific psychological space I was occupying at the time. Titled “Energía Eternizada” or Eternalized Energy, it speaks to feeling one's creative energy trapped by some vital entity which contains it's own potential energy. Possibility still flows out, but it is transmuted by the presence of this large seed which sits at the throat of the vessel.

Mexican American artist, writer, and emerging curator, Areli Navarro Magallón is deeply entangled in the Houston art scene. They’ve collaborated with Arte Público Press, DiverseWorks, Locke Surls Center for Art and Nature, and currently work at ART IS BOND. gallery, the Menil Drawing Institute and Casa Luz. She sees her art as controlled catharsis, a means through which symbolism and symmetry become a vessel for visualizing nuanced emotions when language isn’t enough. Some of her other interests include maximalist interior design, the art of letter-writing, religious symbolism, and art manifestos. Preferred mediums include stick and poke tattoos, collage, gouache paint, and sketch booking.

@cielito.no.tan.lindo

“Open Heart”

Autumn McIlraith is a mixed-media collage artist living in Houston, TX. Her work uses imagination and emotion to engage with the world around her, exploring embodied experiences of chronic pain and illness, and how these experiences transform the everyday world. She is an alumna of the Artist INC program from Mid-America Arts Alliance.

@paper.autumn

“Two Places at Once” 18x24

My work explores the narratives we construct around our lived experiences, recognizing that these narratives are often tainted by the inherent biases of memory, which can be unreliable and lacking in full context. In my artistic practice, I delve into the intricate layers of my personal history, flattening the dimension of time and erasing the boundaries of my own personal storytelling. My intention is to challenge the narratives we often create, and to seek new truths from a broader perspective. I utilize the traditional medium of paint, while incorporating unconventional materials such as joint compound, which is used in the construction of drywall for buildings. This “mud” as mY grandfather called it, was a material that I became familiar with throughout my childhood as I watched the men in my family use it to build homes for the family business. The incorporation of these materials serves a dual purpose: to reference the notions of home and family, deeply ingrained in my memories, while also elevating the often-overlooked materials of a trade to the realm of fine art. My composition takes subjects and images embedded in my memory and situates them in a cohesive spatial arrangement. My work is not intended to be seen through the lens of a linear narrative or a straightforward retelling of history. My careful consideration of materials, color palette, and composition, coupled with the use of subjects from different points in my life, result in a conflation of time, memory, and space. My work pulls these layers from the lived experiences of my childhood, adolescence, and adulthood, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of introspection anD reinterpretation alongside me.

@bel.i_

“Hidden”

Beata Bober-Gorzkowski also known as BG Eclectic Designs, is a Houston based artist that was born and raised in Rzeszów, Poland. Creating art is a form of therapy for me and the use of resin and real quartz crystals allows me to pour positive energy while giving my art work purpose. As of September 2020, Beata began to use their own line of unique Resin Pigments.

@bgceclecticdesigns

“Alchemy”

Corporate America has established its own unique culture of punishment for black bodies. Often of the psychological and emotional nature, it carries the capacity to be deadly as we’ve seen with the death of Dr. Antoinette Candia-Bailey (2024). This is against the backdrop of being one of the most underpaid, financially burdened, and socially abused groups in the country. Black women must deny and abandon who they are to survive in these spaces, and after a workplace incident led to her own hospitalization the artist became personally familiar with the ways racism and prejudice creep into corporate America. This body of work intends to bring awareness to the spectrum of bullying Black women experience while exposing the ways they contort themselves to survive and thrive in corporate spaces. As we acknowledge these hardships, it is also my mission to celebrate Black America’s alchemic ability to turn their pain into beauty.

Born June 1996 in Chicago, Braxton Howard is a charming, charitable, and compassionate queer Black woman thriving in Houston, Texas. She is a lifelong shutterbug, considering photography a form of “proof of existence.” She finds joy in capturing expressive portraits and memorable candids using her world as a canvas and the human experience as paint.

@braxxattaxx

https://www.2ndhousestudios.com

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Catherine Davis is a Houston-based photographer who specializes in analog film. They got their start in photography with a smartphone camera they haven’t been able to put the camera down since. Catherine loves to capture the unique, candid moments of life filled with all colors under the sun.

@catdavphoto

“Madre Tierra” 11x11

As a young girl from Monterrey, Mexico I was always intrigued by the grafiti and architecture in the city. After moving to Houston, Texas my fascination continued on the road. For instance, I questioned how billboards were designed and produced on such a large scale. Towards the end of my high school experience, I was conicted on what I wanted to study in college or if I even wanted to attend. However, during that time the only constant in my life was drawing and painting. When I nally decided to take action, I pursued my academic career at the Art Institute of Houston and received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic and Web Design. I took on intern roles and contract work at various local design studios while working as a sales associate and gaining strong customer service and communication skills. Music has always been the greatest inspiration for my work, which helps me develop the ability to alchemize the experiences into art. In July of 2021, I introduced Alchemistry Design to the community as a creative company specializing in illustrative logos and print advertising for small businesses and entrepreneurs. To support a Latina-woman owned business, please visit www.alchemistrydesign.com

@alchemistry.design

“Bath of the Night”

My name is Christal Suarez, a small visual artist based in Houston, TX. I am a recent graduate from the University of Houston-Downtown with a fine arts degree, specializing in studio arts. My artistic exploration unfolds through the intricate mediums of linoleum printmaking and acrylic paint. My artistic journey has been shaped by influential mentors such as Professor Floyd Newsum and El Franco Lee II, who introduced me to the intricate world of printmaking. Inspired by Dark art and macabre aesthetics, my creations delve into the interplay of shadows and emotions. With an intent to unravel the beauty within darkness, my art sparks a captivating visual journey into mysterious and surreal realms. Through each stroke and composition, I explore the intricate dance between darkness and beauty, creating a fusion that captivates the observer.

@chriixtal

“Deep” 48x24

Clear is a dynamic painter and muralist whose work captivates audiences with its vibrant energy and captivating imagery. Specializing in the use of acrylics and aerosol, Clear's artistic vision comes to life through an intricate blend of bold colors and meticulous detail. Inspired by the beauty of nature and the enigmatic allure of serpents, Clear's artistry is characterized by the juxtaposition of delicate lilies and sinuous snakes, creating a mesmerizing fusion of the serene and the surreal.

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Courtney Dennis, also known as CoCo the Shooter, is a digital and film photographer based in Houston, Texas. Starting a photography journey in 2012, CoCo specializes in portrait and street photography with the goal to create art that captures people in their element, their personality, and the city movement that has been an inspiration; along with the intent to bring light to all parts of everyday life.

@cocotheshooter

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As an artist deeply passionate about capturing the essence of her many subjects through her portrait photography series over the years, Crystal has strive to create images that transcend mere visuals, evoking a profound sense of connection and storytelling.

With a keen-eye of fashion, visualization and a creative sense of innate understanding, this native Houstonian, has built her skillsets as a photographer over the past decade through collaborating with other creative minded individuals that help bring her constant visuals to life. Born and raised on the north side of Houston, she received her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts from the Art Institute of Houston, majoring and receiving her degree in Graphic Design but from there, she learned how to work a digital camera. It didn’t take her long until she attended a local non-denominational church that had sky-rocketed her passion of photography into her now driven focus.

“All my life I knew I wanted a career path in some of sort creative environment whether it was in graphic design or photography. When I was younger I collected international fashion magazines, just to study the photography of each luxury brand that I saw. Studying the posing of the models and the creative lighting techniques that stood out from off the pages and how it grabs your attention immediately.”

Gracing her own spot in magazines and on their covers, you’ll see some of Crystal’s photography featured in Marvika, Picton, Creators, and Ellements magazines, on her own personal webpage, her high-profiled client’s social media platforms and in recent traveling exhibitions throughout the US and internationally in Europe.

“Displayed on view are three images that gave me the ability to challenge myself with certain lighting techniques. I thank the women in these three images that help me see the vision and execution to deliver such amazing photos.”

https://www.crystalsmileyphotography.com/

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Daniella Marie Castillo Vasquez is a graduate from Brandeis University. She has been writing from a very young age and her passion has grown exponentially over time. During her senior year of college she began the process of writing a play titled Love Letters From the Bottom of the Bottle. Topics of sexuality, sexual expression, love, heartbreak, healing, identity, and change are explored through the conversations and lens of women of color of diverse backgrounds. She also co-directed Diasporic Intimacies, a documentary film about education in Dominican Republic and Guatemala. Currently, she is a College Advisor, and a fellow for the Writers Room of Boston. She continues to write and hopes to pursue an advanced degree in Creative Writing.

Catherine Gisele Romero is an aspiring writer and a lover of books. She is from Southwest Houston, Texas with proud roots from El Salvador and Guatemala. She is a coordinator for a fellowship program, where she supports the selection of diverse educational leaders. Beyond this, her interests lie in stories that are authentic to memory, experience, and people’s humanity. She hopes to contribute to contribute to these narratives through a storytelling collective named Diasporic Intimacies (DI), co-created by her and her best friend, Daniella Castillo Vasquez. Through DI they explore various art forms to best celebrate the complexity and wholeness of stories.

“Abre Camino”

This project chronicles the migration journeys of transgender women from Central America to the United States as a form of self-preservation from life-threatening challenges they face at home.

While Latin America leads the world in trans homicides at 70 percent and most trans women here don’t live past 35 years old, in Central America they’re further threatened by the region’s endemic violence from gangs, clients, police, and even family. With few survival options, countless women flee their country and are put at continued risk as migrants. In an escalating pattern of abuse, many encounter danger and prejudice on their routes from criminals, migrants, law enforcement, and shelters.

Kataleya Nativi Baca and Alexa Rios Smith, two women I’ve followed since 2018, have been attacked and traumatized at home in Honduras and while migrating through Mexico. “[My brother] tried to kill me several times, but I finally achieved my goal of fleeing like a fugitive in the night,” said Kataleya. Despite roadblocks obstructing their paths, including assault, sleeping on the streets without a meal, and being stuck indefinitely in Mexico due to closed borders from the pandemic, in 2021 they finally crossed into the U.S. “I'm ready to work hard to achieve my dreams," said Alexa.

Though they reached their goal, obstacles in the U.S. have complicated their hopes for opportunity and security—from facing consistent housing and economic instability to being evicted by a transphobic landlord to the inability of securing a pro bono lawyer for asylum. Despite tenuous circumstances, they continue to persevere against great odds. “I’m going to fight for what I want: my gender identity, my right to be respected as a woman…I’m strong, like a buffalo,” said Kataleya, who has since received her green card, providing her with more security through the ability to work.

For a decade through projects “Volver a Nacer,” “A Light Inside,” and now “Abre Camino,” Danielle has photographed the far-reaching effects of issues on trans women, such as gender identity laws in Argentina; lack of access to health care, education, or employment options in Peru; and, migration’s push and pull factors from Central America to the U.S. By following trans women long-term and highlighting the dire situations they face as well as their resilience, her work paints a humanistic, nuanced portrait of this community.

Danielle Villasana is a photojournalist based in her hometown of Houston, Texas. She focuses on human rights, gender, migration, and health throughout the Americas. Her work has been included in solo and group exhibits and has been featured in National Geographic, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, among other publications. Danielle is a member of Women Photograph, Diversify Photo, NPPA, and Ayün Fotógrafas, a collective of women photographers united by Latin America. Danielle strongly believes in the power of photography paired with education and community development.

@davillasana

“Balanced Thinking” 18x24

DeJa Routt is a Texas City based fine artist who uses a variety of media to bring her perspective to canvas. Acrylic paint serves as her primary medium although watercolor and ink make an appearance in her works. Throughout her artistic journey, DeJa has participated in more than 10 local art events. Each idea used comes from her daily experiences whether that be from music, life, or media. From these ideas, she produces unique, surreal pieces ranging in color from vibrant to monochrome. She aims to draw her audience into each piece, allowing for an indirect conversation between viewer and creator.

@planted_and_grounded

“By the shore” 16x24

“Delicia is a portrait photographer based in Houston, Texas. Her love for photography began in 2016 when she was inspired by her parents' timeless images of their family's cherished moments displayed in numerous photo albums and pictures around their home. Since then, she has been passionate about capturing the world through her unique perspective.

With eight years of experience, Delicia is a seasoned portrait photographer who is dedicated to capturing the essence of her subjects and bringing her visions to life. Her unwavering passion for photography drives her to create images that you can feel.

@delicia.e.photos

Delicia E. Photography

“Intimacy & Desire”

This photo toys with the line between closeness and distance, representing an intimacy with the flesh, and a sensuality of the body. However, by abstracting, reflecting, and almost voiding the body, the viewer is presented simultaneously with boundaries that prevent context and invite the viewer to imagine and construct their own relationship with the body that is presented before them.

Eden Soni Bhalla is an artist, writer, and herbalist working in Houston, TX.

They are interested in developing work that deals with sex, death, intimacy, change, embodiments of play, experiments in vulnerability, and spirit. You can visit their website at edensoni.com, and follow them on instagram @crazy_girl_productions.

edensoni.com

“Woman Working”

I grew up in an ultra conservative and extremely religious household. I was told what to wear, how to speak and how to act. For most of my life, I've felt like a caged bird, looking out from inside admiring the women who were brave, who did as they pleased, and who were truly unafraid of being their authentic selves. Although, I've been an adult for many, many years, I still carried the voices that oppressed me and my art felt stifled.

A few years ago, I began questioning where my beliefs came from and if they were actually mine, I started shedding the protective mask I wore and revealed my true self. My art began to flourish. I realized that I gravitated towards painting women in their natural habitat, women who are free, women who can express themselves courageously and who are unafraid of what the world thinks of them. Deep down inside, all the women I paint are me in some way shape or form. My art has served as a tool for self discovery. My hope is that my art resonates with a women and helps her take one step towards becoming her true, authentic self. If my pieces help a woman feel less afraid, less alone and brave, then that's all I need as an artist.

@creatively_edith

“The Villanueva Brothers”

My name is Emily De Leon and I am a woman photographer in the Houston Lowrider Scene. I love representing not only my city, but my culture as well. Please check out my Instagram page for more content.

@emilys.flicks

“Family Ties” 8x10

As a first generation Mexican-American, Erika Natalie finds solace and inspiration in capturing the essence of her roots through her photography. Born and raised in Houston, TX., her work is an exploration of identity, culture, and the intricate tapestry of history that binds generations together.

Driven by a deep desire to preserve her heritage for future generations, Erika sees her art as a vessel for sustaining history. Each click of her camera serves as a testament to the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of her ancestors, providing her descendents with a connection to their past.

For Erika, photography is more than just a medium and hobby--it's a tool for unraveling the threads of time and understanding the complex systems that have shaped our world.

Fascinated by the interconnectedness of human existence, Erika delves into the complexities of societal structures and cultural norms. Through her lens, she seeks to shed light on the underlying forces that influence our lives, inviting viewers to reflect on the journey that has led us to the present moment.

In her quest for knowledge and understanding, Erika is a student of life. Whether she's immersed in a dusty archive, penning her thoughts and research in a journal, or simply observing the world around her, she finds inspiration in every facet of existence. In this irresistible curiosity that infuses her creativity with depth and meaning, she invites viewers and readers to contemplate the stories that lie beneath the surface and asks to join her on a journey of discovery, reflection, and connection.

@iamenrg

"Intezaar: Waiting on Palestine to be Free"

This photo essay captures the spirit of solidarity and hope within the Palestinian community in Houston. Since October 7, 2023, these images intimately document the resilience and determination of individuals who passionately await the realization of a free and sovereign Palestine. Through the lens of the camera, the photo essay unfolds the stories of waiting, perseverance, and collective strength, showcasing the vibrant cultural expressions, community gatherings, and unwavering commitment to justice. Each photograph serves as a visual testament to the enduring spirit of those who stand in solidarity, united by the shared dream of a liberated Palestine.

@artbyfarahmithani

“Moonflower” 30x24

Faye Pamintuan is a painter born in the Philippines, but alternately lives between Bulacan, PH and Houston, Texas where she is currently based. Moving between the two places for the past decade informs her practice as she cultivates and maps out her own space in this in-between. In 2018, she graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines Diliman with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting. Since then, she has exhibited in various galleries in Metro Manila, Studio 9D in New York City, and at the McNay Art Museum in San Antonio, Texas. Pamintuan recently spent a month as the artist in residence at the Walkway House in North Adams, Massachusetts. She is currently enrolled in the Canopy Program - a year long mentorship through the NYC Crit Club based in New York City - as she prepares to pursue her Master of Fine Arts in the forthcoming year.

http://www.fayepamintuan.com

“Untitled” 8x9

The weaving is created from discarded plastic bags and mesh.

Gleeson Ryan is a maker and upcyclist who works at the intersection of craft, textile art, and sustainability. She uses discarded materials to create objects and garments that are both useful and beautiful, often employing techniques associated with historically feminine crafts such as weaving and crochet. Ryan reclaims the utility of discarded materials as she carries on the legacy of resourceful activists and artists across history. By creating practical household items from waste materials, Ryan transforms items typically destined for a landfill while reducing consumption of new materials. Ryan is also a poet, fire performer, Dungeons & Dragons 5e Dungeon Master and currently based in Houston, Texas.

@happyclatter

“Untitled” 8x10

Heather Paz is a first-generation Salvadoran American whose migration from Virginia to Houston has been a transformative journey in the realm of art. Immersed in the culturally diverse Houston arts scene, she finds inspiration and motivation to capture fleeting moments, holding them sacred in her heart.

The daughter of immigrants, Heather struggled with the legacy of displacement and the fight for acceptance. Her parents' fear of not assimilating led them to distancing themselves from their Salvadoran heritage, a decision that eventually disconnected Heather from her roots. Raised without Spanish, she felt a profound detachment from her culture, sparking a quest for identity through her art.

For Heather, art becomes a means of reclaiming her narrative and preserving her heritage. Her journey back to El Salvador was a pilgrimage, as she gathered fragments of her history to transplant into the cultural landscape of Houston. She recognizes the importance of remembering her roots and sharing her story, bridging the gap between her past and present.

In a city where she feels Salvadoran representation is scarce, Heather is determined to fill the void. Through her photography, she aims to bring visibility to her culture (in El Salvador and in Houston), celebrating its richness and diversity. She envisions a future where Salvadoran Americans in Houston feel seen and heard.

Heather remains committed to honoring her history and shaping the narrative of Salvadoran culture in Houston. With each captured moment, she encourages others to come along on her journey, building connections and nurturing mutual understanding

@heavuhflix @heavuhh

“Besomeone Houston: A Documentary”

My passion for storytelling bloomed in my community of Houston, Texas. Having interned at KHOU11 and working adjacent with ABC13, I built a foundation for my career ahead. I pursued my degree in journalism at the University of Texas at Austin, and put my degree to practice as an on-air reporter at KVEO-TV. 

I spent two years reporting at KVEO-TV, located on the Texas-Mexico border, where I examined national and state topics such as immigration, the Texas energy grid, and abortion rights first hand. I often spoke with the White House and Texas' governor to cover national stories unfolding at our southwestern borders.

In 2022, I left reporting to become a video producer for political consultant and film director, Colin Rogero. We have worked on major federal political campaigns across the country where I learned high value production skills first-hand.

I took the knowledge I gathered along my way to create my own production company where I give the spotlight to marginalized communities, and to the subcultures that exist in our local communities. My passion is lending the mic to those who often go unheard, and contributing to better our world, one story at a time.

My passion is telling the story of the people, and lending the mic to

@iriskarami

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Jewels de Hoyos is a Latina Houston based aura photographer who connects with the community by capturing their energetic frequency on film. Her practice serves as a vessel for exploring and studying the human energy field. With a bachelor of science in psychology and this biofeedback technology, Jewels offers a unique interactive experience for individuals to discover themselves at a deeper metaphysical level. To learn more about aura photography visit www.miixedfeels.com

@miixedfeels

“The Sacred Woman”

Jontrice Murray, a Houston native & African American photographer, draws inspiration from the world around her. Her work aims to transcend the conceptual bounds of editorial, commercial, and lifestyle photography to capture her subjects in their authentic nature. She aims to document the black experience, our spirit, and the truth across genres. Her work is nuanced, yet depicts the joy, solace, and instinctual “cool” of her people.

jontricemurray.format.com

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Karen Sidney Francis is a Visual Artist based in Houston, Texas. A freelance entrepreneur who works in oils, acrylics, pastels, charcoal, ink, and ceramic sculpture. Her art embraces the power of figuration and through her paintings, drawings, and sculptured art she seeks to encapsulate the beauty and individuality of humanity.

Francies’ work has been shown at the “Locke Surls Center for Art and Nature", previously known as Splendora Gardens, as well as the Contemporary Art Gallery at Houston Christian University.

@kroblesart

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Katelynn is a film and digital photographer from Pasadena, Texas. She finds inspiration in Houston's vibrant and diverse car scene. From the graceful lines of lowriders to the adrenaline rush of drift cars, she skillfully captures authentic moments reflecting the dynamic energy of Houston's car scene.

http://katelynncaptures.com/

“Keon”

All works are shot on 35mm film, either in Los Angeles, California, Dallas, or Houston, Texas: All locations in which I reside. My subjects are always friends and my intention with all of my work is to paint my subjects in an empowering light. I wish to portray them as otherworldly, celestial beings amongst a seemingly mundane atmosphere. I use black and white and color in similar frequency. However, on the occasion that I do use color, I focus heavily on prominent reds, greens, and blues to pay homage to my artistic influences from childhood, which include Soviet-era and Bollywood films.

Katya Zakar is a 24 year old Asian photographer based in California and Texas. Classically trained in visual arts from the University of Texas, Katya focused on drawing and photography, citing her Armenian and Kazakh roots as a common source of subject matter for her art.

@ka.therine

“Pinning to Home”

Keane Fairchild is a Chinese-American artist based in Houston, Texas. Through photography and video, Keane explores the interconnecting narratives of being an adoptee.

She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts-Photography/Digital Media (2020) and M.Ed. Curriculum & Instruction - Art Education (2022) from the University of Houston

Keane’s work has been shown in such venues as the Tianjin Academy of Fine Art (TAFA) in Tianjin, China, Art China’s Third Space Exhibition at the University of Houston, the Digital Art Gallery at the University of Houston, and her collaborative video has appeared in the Lobby of 1100 Louisiana Building in Houston, Texas. “Throughout my life, I have only been able to process my adoption from China through my parent's old photos, cassette tapes, and the information in my adoption file (like many other adoptees, this information is minimal). Returning to my homeland three times and documenting my exploration of China has allowed me to develop and try to understand my identity as an adoptee. Discovering visual harmonies between differing environments reflects my search for a sense of belonging and disconnect.”

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These pictures have been taken over the time span of 5 years highlighting each moment in my gender identity. The poems on each photo represent how I view myself navigating life as someone who is non-binary and spent a long portion of their life identifying with womanhood and femininity.

@jiraffas

“Dancer” 8.5x11

Meet the multifaceted artist – a 33-year-old, genderqueer single mother and educator with a passion for illustrating and writing. Armed with a bachelor's in art history, their artistic journey began in high school and has evolved into a celebration of women in all their diverse forms. Inspired by vivid images that sprout from the depths of their mind, this artist has found their artistic flow through the mesmerizing medium of watercolor. "The female form is beautiful in every shape, including every flaw. There is beauty in imperfection. These watercolor paintings portray perfectly “imperfect” female forms in touch with their highest selves, a vision of true beauty," says Marcada.

@Quirkyhippie.shop

“Milho para voce” 18x24

A peek behind my eyes of what intimacy among humans looks and feels like. A chance to sit with the pictures and be in the present because it is a gift given to us daily.

My name is Mariana Carrasco, I was born and raised in Houston, Texas with roots tracing to La Paz, Bolivia. I work primarily with film, and a majority of the photographs were taken on a point and shoot I carry with me everywhere. I draw my inspirations from my daily life, whether thats exploring new parts of the world or embracing the stillness of being in the moment and learning how to be present completely.

@satiazul

“Le Ballerine” 13x19

@marsincolour

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Morgan is a Charlotte, NC creative who currently resides in Houston, TX. Her vision is simple: to reimagine individuality through projects centered around community. She finds joy in the little things, using her perspective to capture those small details. Her work seeks to amplify others while also focusing on the root of their identity.

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My name is Nani. I am a wood burning artist that was born and raised in and around Houston! I have dabbled in both traditional types of media as well as digital, but pyrography has been a passion of mine for a year now. Growing up being a mixed woman (Latina/asian) I have been on a journey of self discovery. I used to draw faces as a way to help me understand facial expressions since I had a hard time reading emotions when I was young. Over time this has shifted to genuinely enjoying creating mostly women with elements incorporated from my mixed background. As I get older I’ve been fortunate to have supportive people around me that have been a pillar in learning and loving all the aspects of myself that were not taught to me. This has translated to using color symbolism and physical elements within my pieces.

@naninhtx @kahlilyco

https://kahlilyco.square.site/

“Tutu Thread Tales” 16x24

I am a Brazilian artist with a truly unique career path. After graduating from Law School, I embarked on a career as an attorney in my home country. However, life had other plans in store for me, leading to significant challenges and transformative life changes. Today, I find myself as the proud mother of two incredible little girls, living in a new country and working in a field that I’m deeply passionate about: portrait photography, specializing in women’s empowerment and dance.

My work as a portrait photographer is a celebration of the strength, beauty, and resilience that resides within every woman. Through the lens of my camera, I aim to empower women by capturing their authentic selves, highlighting their unique stories, and challenging societal norms. Whether it’s a powerful portrait that showcases a woman’s inner strength, a captivating dance photograph that freezes a moment of grace and emotion, or a heartwarming family portrait displaying the profound love of a mother, my art seeks to inspire self-confidence, self-expression, and joy. Drawing from my background in sociology and gender studies, I bring a deep understanding of human dynamics and emotions to each photograph.

As I ventured into the world of creating photography artwork, I found a unique way to pay homage to my grandmother and connect with my heritage. Inspired by the art of embroidery I grew up seeing my grandmother create, I learned the technique of embroidering in photographs from the talented Brazilian artist Aline Brant and incorporated into my photographic process. This intricate and heartfelt process allows me to infuse my images with tradition, a connection to my roots, and a tribute to the amazing, strong women who came before me.

What matters most to me as an artist is the profound impact of photography in empowering people, especially women, and bringing them joy. Through my lens, I capture the authentic beauty, strength, and resilience that every woman possesses, at every age, with every body type, ethnicity, walk of life. Drawing upon my background in sociology and gender studies, I seek to unburden women from the weight of societal norms and help redefine beauty standards so they can see they are beautiful right now, exactly as they are. My work is a celebration of individuality and self-expression, and I am deeply inspired by my family’s legacy of strong women. As a mother of two amazing little girls. I am driven to be a role model for them and also to contribute for more representation so they know everyone has their unique beauty and their place in the world. So, I am committed to changing the world through photography, bringing joy and empowerment with my artwork.

@nayarapastiphotography

http://nayarapasti.com/

“Yoga”

@nilajaaaaa_

“Homecoming” 8x10

Nneoma Ajiwe is a Houston based multi-disciplinary creative firmly rooted in storytelling and expression. Her work is centered around creating aesthetically impactful work, with a feminine touch. As a first-generation Nigerian, her culture and its intricacies inspires her work.

She’s committed to authentic and innovative artistry with her clients in mind. Beyond just what she does, her identity is found in Christ as she is a loving friend, aunt, sister, and confidant to those around her.

@nneomaluxe

@raquelnatalicchio

Raquel Natalicchio is a photographer originally from Los Angeles, CA and now based in Houston, TX as a staff visual journalist for The Houston Chronicle. Raquel documents social issues, community driven stories, political mobilization and migration across the US/Mexico border. Her work focuses on the universality of humanity, including themes of love, struggle, resilience and community. She is currently working on a long term project called “Borderlands” that explores the rich diversity of experiences in border communities along the US/Mexico border.

Raquel discovered photography in an after school arts program and it changed her life. As a result, one of her passions is working in education and has developed photography curricula centered around themes like self love for teen girls. She is passionate about community building and has produced several talks, panel discussions and exhibitions for the photographic community in Los Angeles, CA.

“ya duermanse niñas”

sal.ma bowan.ya (she/her/ella) is a multidisciplinary artist based in Houston, Texas. Bowan.ya is currently the archivist at project row houses (PRH) where she is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage and community history of PRH and the third ward community. Her dedication to preserving cultural history intertwines with her artistic practice, shaping her approach to archival methods and her ability for uncovering narratives through unconventional means. Bowan.ya advocates for discovering "archives" in nontraditional spaces, particularly concerning topics of family and identity within marginalized communities. Through her work, she endeavors to encourage others to unearth the past, while confronting generational trauma, to pave the way for healing and empowerment.

@barbiemarionette

“Portrait of a Dancer”

Samantha Nicole Nava is a first-generation Mexican-American multidisciplinary artist from Houston, Texas. Specializing in film photography and fashion design, her work is heavily influenced by nature, her direct environment, and her loved ones. Aiming to highlight and inspire those less privileged and historically misrepresented from the arts, Samantha creates relatable dream realities, worlds that connect people and pave a way for the next generations. Her artwork blends magic realism with documentary and fashion photography, birthing an intimate style that centers subjects’ uniqueness and records them effortlessly engaging in their environments. Her "come as you are" approach nurtures a relationship that authentically documents an individual’s raw and full sense of being.

“I like to personalize my shoots to truly portray who my subject is. I want to reflect their story and message through my artistic eye. This makes for a very collaborative practice and reinforces my belief that art is a special source of connection for us all,” notes Samantha.

@samanthannava

“Happy is a choice”

Sydnee Moore is a graphic designer, fine artist, and musician based in Houston, TX.

Sydnee’s art emerges from an interest in physics, playing guitar and bass, painting, and designing digitally since 2011. She aims to blur the lines between science and art through visual simplicity, life’s lessons, and retrocentric design.

She hopes to raise questions through her pieces for what she believes human art’s purpose is-- to reflect the many dimensions of time and life itself.

@skthegemini

“Free”

Tanja Calixto is a self-taught artist from Sarajevo, Bosnia, who currently resides in Houston, Texas with her husband, Enrique and son, Tristan. Tanja’s pseudonym, Trispeace is a combination of her deepest happiness and love (her son), and the inner peace derived from her passion. Tanja’s attention to detail brings portraits to life, one of her favorite subject matters to paint. Though she has explored different media including color pencil, jewelry, ceramics, and printmaking, she feels most inspired by the multi-cultural faces that she paints using acrylics. Her influences include nature, astronomy, and spirituality. She believes that creative expression is an anchor to life.

@trispeace

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@easyyygoing_

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@kweenshooter

“Where you left me”

@the_yellowpoppy

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My name is Zila Rivas, I was born and raised in Cuba, Camaguey July 10, 1995.

Now, when I was around 7 years old, If anyone was aware of the conditions in Cuba then, you knew you had to escape. Thanks to my mom who made it possible we escaped and moved to Mexico City. I lived there with my family for about 4 years and shortly after we decided to move to Houston, TX.

Fast forward, I'm in High School trying to learn a whole new language and adapt to a new life, my father had been a videographer since I was a child, therefore I naturally grew curious about that artistic field. I knew then that I wanted to be a photographer for the rest of my life.

College comes around and due to life and specific situations, I joined the United States Air Force. I would’ve loved to go in as a photojournalist but the wait would’ve been close to a year and I was ready for my life to change drastically, therefore I did not want to wait so I joined as a military cop and was stationed in South California, Lancaster. It didn’t take me long to regret my decision, I was exposed to a lot of sexism, racism, stereotypes, misogynistic personalities, etc It was a men's world.

In the middle of it all what came to save me was in fact, photography.

I would go out of my way grab my camera and start documenting my life through a lens one way or the other. I was very lucky to have been deployed to Africa, in addition to vacations I was able to squeeze taking full advantage of it all.

Was I exhausted? Yes but very creatively fulfilled therefore I loved every minute of it.

Fast forward close to 5 years later, I finally got out and that leads me to right here, right now.

I am currently 28 years old trying to find my way back to the real world, with a refreshed perspective towards life and my vision. Trying to stay true to myself and my roots as a Hispanic woman in what seems to be always a men’s world to a certain degree.

@ZiRivas

Daisy Murray

Jada Rankins

Olivia Abdelnour

Alexandra Minnich

Avery Pompa

Ridley Ana Armenta