Arts, culture, museum, and community events across Houston.
Upcoming events
Fashion Fusion X: Inspired by Frida Kahlo
Houston Public Library – Central (Jesse H. Jones) · 500 McKinney, Houston, TX 77002
Fashion Fusion X: Inspired by Frida Kahlo features garments from the tenth anniversary of Fashion Fusion, an annual competition and runway show presented by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), and the award-winning Fashion Design program at Houston City College (HCC). This year, HCC students and alumni designed original outfits inspired by the MFAH’s recent exhibition, Frida: The Making of an Icon, which was devoted to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo’s life and legacy. The garments created by HCC’s emerging designers were entered into one of four representative categories: Regenerate, Reimagine, Reengineer, or Reveal. This community tour showcases the winning outfits from the competition. Student Winners Reimagine: Darrion Nguyen – Blossoms in Maroon Regenerate: Remi Erinle – Beauty Around the World Reengineer: Tanya Roche – Hummingbird Alumni Winners Reimagine: Tatyana Miller – El Cantor Regenerate: Ebonie Sophus – The Blooming Confluence Reengineer: Kim Lai – Appearances Reveal: Estefania Espindola – Resiliences Audience Choice Winner Estefania Espindola – Proudly Tehuano
A lively group art exhibition at Toros HTX celebrating the energy, drama, and joy of soccer. This dynamic showcase transforms the beautiful game into a visual experience, featuring painted soccer balls, vibrant canvas artworks, and imaginative pieces inspired by movement, teamwork, competition, and play. From bold colors and expressive textures to unexpected takes on familiar soccer symbols, Re-Play invites viewers to see the sport from a whole new angle. Come explore the gallery, meet the artists, connect with fellow soccer fans, and experience an evening where art and athletics collide. Whether you live for match day, love contemporary art, or simply enjoy a great night out, there’s something here for everyone. Come for the art. Stay for the atmosphere. Leave inspired. **Join us for the opening reception of Re-Play, on Tuesday, September 15th from 6pm to 9pm**
It’s time for ENROLLMENT at the Russian Language School for the upcoming FALL semester! REGISTER NOW! Group classes are available EVERY Saturday & Sunday starting September 6, 2025. We accept children ages 3 thru 14. Hurry up and secure your spot at the School!
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church · 5501 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004
Gordon Education is excited to announce its 2026 Summer Film Camps, offering four immersive programs for young creatives aged 9 to 17. Each filmmaking camp focuses on a different genre: Historical, Changemakers, Documentary, and Narrative Fiction, allowing aspiring filmmakers to explore the art of cinema from multiple perspectives while developing their own voice. Narrative Fiction Filmmaking Camp | Ages 9 – 13 | 9 am – 3 pm July 13-17 at St. Paul’s School Young storytellers unleash their wildest creative visions in this story-driven filmmaking camp. Whether their movie is set in outer space or under the sea, campers have full artistic license to bring their unique ideas to the screen. Together, they will write, film, direct, and act in an original production, using the “Hero’s Journey” as a roadmap to learn the essentials of storytelling. Camp Leaders for the Time-Traveling Historical Camp are Dan Gordon and Bri Guerrero. Dan Gordon leads the Changemakers and Documentary Camps, and Bri Guerrero leads the Narrative Fiction Camp. Space is limited, and scholarships are available.
Sabine Street Studios · 1907 Sabine Street Studios, Houston, TX 77007
Teal—a striking blend of blue’s tranquility and green’s vitality—serves as both inspiration and vessel for this diverse collection of artworks that speak to transformation in its myriad forms. In the luminous heart of summer, Sabine Street Studios presents Transformative Teal, a bold and immersive exploration of change, fluidity, and renewal through the prism of a singular hue. Teal—a striking blend of blue’s tranquility and green’s vitality—serves as both inspiration and vessel for this diverse collection of works that speak to transformation in its myriad forms. Curated to challenge and enchant, Transformative Teal brings together an eclectic group of artists whose practices span painting, sculpture, photography, performance and digital media. Each piece embodies the dynamic tension and harmony inherent in transformation: the push and pull between past and future, the personal and collective, the seen and unseen. This exhibition invites viewers to immerse themselves in moments of metamorphosis—whether subtle or striking—within both the artworks and within themselves. The varying shades of teal ripple across the gallery space, echoing waves of change that touch every aspect of existence. From intimate narratives of identity and healing to expansive meditations on nature and society, the works showcased reveal how transformation is at once an external phenomenon and an internal journey. Step inside, and let teal’s transformative energy wash over you—inviting reflection, renewal, and revelation. Join us on August 6, from 6-8pm, for a mesmerizing opening reception featuring Sabine artist Amanda Silva’s “Transformative” performance as she sheds her skin like a snake. Enjoy live music by Aurum Son, led by Sonia Flores, along with drinks and snacks. As always, the reception is free and open to the public Featured Artists: Ksenia Kozhenkova, Kelly Best Bourgeois, Sara Meyer, Sarah Rolfvondenbaumen, Sheetal Dalwadi-Otia, Donna Carnahan, T. D. Paul Studio, Xavier Nguyen, Steve J. Smith, Pothik Chatterjee, Giselle Bueno, Shital Dalwadi, Toto, Romeo C. Robinson, Ana Sanchez, Anjali Nanda, Audrey Nguyen, Sneha Bhavsar, Roxy Wuz Here Art, Amanda T. Silva, Eric Coan, Justin Earl Grant, XZZX Image: Eric Coan, A Sanctuary of Silence
The Silos at Sawyer Yards, Gallery 200 · 1502 Sawyer Street, Suite 224, Houston, TX 77007
ThinkINK 2026: PrintHouston’s Annual Members’ Exhibition, curated by Jordan Bolduc and Jailyne España, features original printmaking techniques: lithography, woodcut, linoleum cut, etching, drypoint, metal engraving, and screenprint. Since 2009 PrintHouston has grown into an art organization representing a growing global community of printmakers and print supporters. Featured Artists: Andis Applewhite, Pat Barton, Linda Behar, Hannah Bender, Janet Best Badger, Randy Clark, Lucinda Cobley, Jonas Criscoe, Pat Doran Porcynaluk, Jessica Farris, Orna Feinstein, Melisa Gerecci, Kevin Haas, William H. Hays, Yuji Hiratsuka, Vivian Hordes, Cathie Kayser, Hank Mattson, Eileen McClellan, Susu Meyer, Sharon Navage, Peter Nickel, Donna E Perkins, Kathleen B Pittman, Charlotte Seifert, Nomi Silverman, Dorothea Van Camp Opening Reception September 26, 2026 6pm-8pm
Beyond the Hedges: Historias de Latinidad at Rice University
Julia Ideson Building · 550 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002
Rice University is home to a campus bounded by historic hedges but deeply interconnected with the dynamic metropolis of Houston, one of the most diverse and culturally expansive global cities in the world. While the university was originally chartered exclusively for Houston’s white inhabitants, trailblazing Latines defied those boundaries from the beginning. They walked through the Sallyport, refusing to be kept out. Pieced together from photos, letters, and diaries discovered in the archives of the Woodson Research Center and the Houston Public Library Special Collections, and from oral histories of the students, staff, and faculty who shaped both Rice and the city, this exhibit proves that from the moment ground broke in 1910, Latine individuals have helped shape Rice’s legacy. Today, nearly 13.5% of Rice University’s undergraduate students and more than 44% of Houston’s residents are of Latin American descent. Beyond the Hedges: Historias de Latinidad at Rice University honors this community, which has, for over a century, dedicated their brilliance, service, resilience, and creativity to the campus and the city.
Houston Public Library – Central (Jesse H. Jones) · 500 McKinney, Houston, TX 77002
The Houston Public Library invites you to experience nearly a century of civil rights resilience in an exhibit chronicling the League of United Latin American Citizens’ (LULAC) pursuit of justice. Since 1929, LULAC has dismantled systemic barriers through landmark victories. Explore the 1954 Hernandez v. Texas U.S. Supreme Court triumph, President Kennedy’s 1963 Houston visit, and the 1957 “Little School of the 400″—championed by LULAC National President Felix Tijerina and inspired by 17-year-old high school student Isabel Verver in Ganado, Texas. Spanning mid-century milestones to ongoing fights for immigration reform, we honor 98 years of advocacy under the motto, “All for One and One for All.” This exhibit was organized by LEAP (Latino Educational Archival Programs).
Houston Public Library – Central (Jesse H. Jones) · 500 McKinney, Houston, TX 77002
In the 1950s, Mexican American children in Texas entered schools shaped by segregation and discrimination, where language barriers added to an already unequal educational system. The Little School of the 400 tells the story of an innovative preschool program that used conversation, play, and 400 essential English words to prepare Spanish-speaking children for school. High school student Isabel Gonzales (Verver) helped bring this new approach to life as a teacher in the program. What began in one South Texas classroom grew into a statewide educational movement and helped lay important groundwork for the future of bilingual education in Texas.
Asia Society Texas Center · 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004
Yoshitaka Amano is one of the most celebrated animators of our time, responsible for the creative direction of iconic media universes, including the groundbreaking anime ‘Speed Racer’ and the beloved ‘Final Fantasy’ video game saga. ‘Yoshitaka Amano: Big Bang’ surveys approximately 30 years of Amano’s multimedia paintings, introducing visitors to his spellbinding visual arts lexicon. The exhibition features approximately 40 works in oil paint, ink, and automotive paint. Monumental paintings explode with Amano’s signature, dreamlike visions of figures inhabiting fantastic, highly wrought environments. The exhibition will have an exclusive member preview September 16–20. It will open September 23 and remain on view through February 7, 2027.
Asia Society Texas Center · 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004
Experience “Bamboo Bliss,” a unique yoga collaboration hosted by Lost Lotus Yoga Studio in Asia Society Texas’ serene bamboo garden! Join the All Levels Vinyasa Flow for an inclusive class for practitioners of all levels to enjoy a flowing sequence amid tranquil surroundings and find a sense of clarity, control, and empowerment. Bring your own mats (BYOM). Limited capacity; advance registration is strongly recommended.
The Health Museum’s The Fatherhood Effect Healing Arts Exhibition
The Health Museum · 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston, TX 77004
The Health Museum, an interactive health science museum located in the heart of the Houston Museum District, will debut their newest exhibition The Fatherhood Effect as part of the Healing Arts Program at a preview party on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. Six awards will be presented during the reception at 7 p.m. The exhibition will open to the public on Saturday, August 15, 2026, and will remain on display at The Health Museum until January 27, 2027. Through an open call for art, The Health Museum received powerful submissions of visual art that positioned fatherhood as a public health approach to healthier living. By elevating local stories and lived experiences, the exhibition invited reflection on how fatherhood has evolved over the past three decades—and how meaningful, engaged fatherhood contributes to healthier children, stronger families, and more connected communities. Through the arts and public health perspective, The Fatherhood Effect highlights fathers as present, nurturing, and deeply involved in caregiving. The exhibition challenges outdated stereotypes that define fathers solely as providers, and instead emphasizes care, emotional connection, and shared responsibility as essential elements of fatherhood. The artwork selection was juried by community leaders and fathers including Houston City Council Member District I Joaquin Martinez, Director of Harris County Boards and Commissions Daniel Santamaria, Director of Community Engagement for the Alzheimer’s Association Jorge Olvera, Founder and CEO of The Color of Coffee Collective Keith Hawkins, and Founder and Director of CoolxDad Kevin Barnett. Tickets for the exhibit preview reception on August 14, 2026, are available at 3586.blackbaudhosting.com/3586/Fatherhood-Effect-Preview-Reception and are $10 for Museum members and $20 for non-members. All tickets include live music, light bites, beverages, and free parking in the Museum’s surface lot. Doors open at 6pm and the awards will be announced at 7pm. The Healing Arts Program was launched in 2024 with a gallery opening for “Healing Hands: A Collection of Caregiver Expressions on Mental Wellness” and was created to explore the intersections of art, medicine, and culture, and provide the community with an outlet for processing experiences relating to physical and mental health. Through workshops, exhibitions, and community engagement, the program has increased the museum’s capacity for connection and healing in the Houston community. The Healing Arts Program focuses on connection, creativity, critical thinking, and compassionate dialogue, through a lens that healthier communities can be built through collaboration between individuals, educators, artists, and healthcare professionals.
Memorial Park · 6501 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007
Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park on Friday-Sunday, October 9-11, 2026 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The outdoor gallery will take over Memorial Park offering patrons the opportunity to meet artists, view original works, and purchase one-of-a-kind art, world-class paintings, prints, jewelry, sculptures, functional art, and more. The three-day festival will feature live entertainment stages, a food truck park, and beverage stations throughout the festival. Guests will enjoy Houston’s iconic Memorial Park while enjoying the festival’s wine and craft beer garden. For the ultimate art lover, Bayou City Art Festival will offer a limited availability VIP Hospitality Lounge, which will include complimentary light bites, beer, wine, and other refreshments. The relaxing setting under a canopy of trees will feature roaming musicians, artistic décor, and more. VIPs will receive access from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to the VIP area, and VIP parking.
Time to Get Ready: Fotografía Social | Civil Rights Photography of Maria Varela
The African American Library at the Gregory School · 1300 Victor St., Houston, TX 77019
Inspired by social justice activism in her south side Chicago Catholic high school, Maria Varela (b. 1940) accepted an invitation in 1963 to join the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a civil rights organization working in the U.S. south. She helped develop a voter literacy program and by 1965 was the only female staff photographer for SNCC. In 1968 the experienced civil rights activist accepted an invitation from Reies Lopez Tijerina to join the Land Grant Movement in New Mexico. When members of the movement requested help in restoring ancestral lands and cultural practices, she supported them in establishing co-ops and non-for-profits to help improve their lives. “The images in this exhibition reflect the evolution of resistance movements over nearly three decades, from demonstrations to political organizing to establishing alternative institutions, which would model what we would do ‘if we were in charge.’” — Maria Varela About the Photographer Maria Varela (American, b. 1940) was a staff member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) from 1963-1967 working primarily in Alabama and Mississippi. Varela created filmstrips and photo books utilized by SNCC and local community organizers for various organizing campaigns. As a SNCC staffer, she also photographed marches, as the presence of cameras often protected marchers from violence. In 1968, she moved to New Mexico at the invitation of leaders of the Hispano land rights movements. She also continued her photography documenting the 1968 Poor People Campaign, the first Chicano Youth Conference, the 1960s and 1970s Chicago movement, and the lifestyles of Nuevo Mexicano villages. For 40 years Maria organized rural communities in New Mexico and the Southwest to create culturally sustainable economic enterprises to help reduce poverty and loss of ancestral lands. In 1990, she was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship for this work. For the last six decades, Maria’s work has been featured in books, magazines, TV media, and photo exhibitions. Her photographs can be found in the collections of the National Museum of African American Art, National Museum of Mexican Art, and the National Gallery of Art. This exhibition was organized by the National Museum of Mexican Art, Chicago, IL. Sponsored by Chicago Park District, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Illinois Arts Council Agency.
Exhibit: Spanish Texas During the American Revolution
The Heritage Society · 1100 Bagby, Houston, TX 77002
Spanish Texas During the American Revolution: Life and Legacy, 1775–1783 Opens at The Heritage Society HOUSTON — The Heritage Society at Sam Houston Park opens its newest America250 exhibition today: Spanish Texas During the American Revolution: Life and Legacy, 1775–1783, a traveling exhibition that reframes the American Revolution through the experiences of Tejanos and Spanish settlers. The exhibit is produced by the Mexican American Museum of Texas in partnership with Dr. Tim Seiter, professor, historian, and author. Covering the years 1775 to 1783, the exhibition highlights Spanish Texas communities stretching from the Sabine to the Nueces Rivers, including San Antonio, La Bahía, Los Adaes and Nacogdoches. Organizers say the goal is to broaden public understanding of the Revolution as a continental conflict shaped by diverse communities far beyond the thirteen colonies. The Heritage Society will host an official Grand Opening Reception on September 16, launching Hispanic Heritage Month that is open to the public. Beginning in September, the museum will also present a Lunch & Learn speaker series every third Thursday of the month, featuring scholars who will explore daily life in Spanish Texas — from foodways and medicine to courtship, leisure, frontier justice and the region’s relationships with Native nations. Additional talks will examine Tejano support for Spanish military campaigns, including the donativos — donations made by residents to aid Spanish Colonel Bernardo de Gálvez’s efforts against the British. Research shows Spanish Texans contributed nearly 1,700 pesos, equivalent to about 340 head of cattle. To expand community access, The Heritage Society will host free family museum days tied to major cultural celebrations: Following Fiestas Patrias Parade on Saturday, September 19 During the Día de los Muertos parade and festival on Saturday, November 7.
Home Sweet Home: Greater Houston Subdivisions and Neighborhoods
Julia Ideson Building · 550 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002
In 1836, brothers Augustus Chapman and John Kirby Allen founded the town of Houston at the confluence of Buffalo Bayou and White Oak Bayou. Shortly after, they advertised the area in the Telegraph and Texas Register as “handsome and beautifully elevated,” where settlers could enjoy “the sea breeze in all its freshness.” The Allen Brothers’ descriptions may have been misleading, bu they were effective for attracting settlers and immigrants with the promise of a fresh start, cheap land, and economic opportunities. Houston has steadily grown from a fledgling town in the Republic of Texas into the fourth-largest metropolis in the United States. Home Sweet Home explores the creation of a selection of Greater Houston subdivisions, neighborhoods, and cities by featuring historical maps, brochures, postcards, and photographs.
Discovery Green · 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010
Korean Festival Houston celebrates the very best of Korean food, music, performing arts, and culture, featuring vendors and performers from around the world. This beloved free festival welcomes a broad and vibrant community of Houstonians, including foodies, K-Pop fans, families, and anyone eager to experience Korean culture in the heart of the city. This year’s headliners, Big Ocean, make history as the world’s first K-Pop group with hard-of-hearing members and will take the stage on Saturday, October 10th at 7:00 PM. ASL interpreters will be present for stage presentations and available at the Information Booth throughout the weekend. We are also proud to offer sensory-friendly hours on Sunday, October 11th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM for a quieter, more relaxed festival experience. The KultureCity Sensory Activation Vehicle will be on-site the entire weekend, providing a safe and comfortable space for guests who need a moment to recharge. kfesthouston.com
Fall Exhibitions at the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts
Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts · 6815 Cypresswood Drive, Spring, TX 77379
This fall, the Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts is pleased to present four new exhibitions in its galleries. The Main Gallery will feature bronze sculptures and paintings of the American West, as well as aerial photographs of East Texas. Two additional exhibitions serve as memorial tributes to Houston artists Howard Finkel and Les McDonald, Jr. Main Gallery In the Main Gallery this fall, the Pearl will present “The New American West: By Brush and By Bronze.” This exhibition features vibrant, pattern-rich oil paintings by Kathleen Frank, alongside figurative and wildlife bronze sculptures by Mark Yale Harris. Also in the Main Gallery is “From the Air: A Different Perspective of East Texas.” Photographer Bill Walterman captures East Texas from a unique point of view, using a drone to explore small towns and the landscape. “When drones became available, I decided to try one—and now I have a camera with wings,” says Walterman. “I’ve found the viewpoint, perspective, and detail rendered from the altitude of 100 to 300 feet adds a new dimension to my photography.” Cole Gallery The Cole Gallery will feature “Once in a Lifetime: The Life and Art of Howard Finkel. Howard Finkel (1942 – 2018) spent 32 years as a Houston orthopedic surgeon known for his compassion as much as his skill. In retirement, he discovered bronze sculpture and trained at the Glassell Studio School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Through his art, Dr. Finkel shaped quiet, personal moments with his family into lasting form. This exhibition celebrates the work he leaves behind. Hillery Community Gallery “The Art of Les McDonald” will be on exhibition in the Hillery Community Gallery, celebrating a body of work rooted in a lifelong love of the outdoors. The watercolors of Les McDonald, Jr. (1943 – 2025) capture the wildlife, landscapes, and sporting scenes of his native Texas gulf coast with remarkable precision. A commercial artist turned full-time painter in 1986, Les McDonald built a career on his ability to render nature with both sweeping scope and exacting detail. Exhibition Dates All four exhibitions open October 3, 2026 and continue through January 2, 2027. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free. About the Pearl The Pearl Fincher Museum of Fine Arts exists to provide direct, first-hand access to original works of art, and to offer outstanding educational and public programming. As the only Fine Arts museum in Harris County outside the city center of Houston, the Pearl operates completely through the generous donations of individuals, businesses and foundations from the greater Houston community, and is free to all.
Pedalisa Art Houston Sugarland Studio · 2309 Williams Trace Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Discover the colorful art of Turkish mosaic lamp making at Pedalisa Art’s Sugar Land studio in the Houston area! During this fun, beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll choose your colors and patterns, then decorate your own lamp with vibrant glass tiles and beads. Our friendly instructors will guide you step by step, so no previous art experience is needed. Your workshop includes: • All mosaic materials and tools • Step-by-step guidance • Your selected lamp to create and take home • Turkish tea, baklava, and Turkish delight • Approximately 2–2.5 hours of creative fun After the workshop, you’ll take your handmade lamp home and receive simple instructions for completing the final grouting step. This unique Houston-area experience is perfect for date nights, birthdays, family outings, girls’ nights, team-building events, and anyone looking for a memorable creative activity. Ages 7 and up. Advance booking is recommended, as seating is limited. Come relax, get creative, and leave with a beautiful Turkish mosaic lamp made by you. Reserve your seat today!
Houston Center for Contemporary Craft · 4848 Main Street, Houston, Tx 77002
This fall, as HCCC marks 25 years of illuminating contemporary craft, Asher: Off the Wall proudly presents “The Candle Show,” exploring the ritual and material poetics of candlelight. This exciting show and sale brings together artists who shape light itself with handcrafted candelabras, holders, and wax-based forms. On view in our retail space, The Candle Show features work from a curated selection of artists working in clay, glass, and wax, including candles and candelabras by Gabo Martinez, Jessica Ninci, Meryl Pataky, and more! The Candle Show is open during public hours at HCCC (Tuesday – Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM). 🕯️Opening Day Event🕯️ Shaping Light: A Hand-Dipped Candlemaking Event Saturday, September 19, 11 AM – 3 PM Museum visitors and shoppers are invited to hand dip their own pair of taper candles at this drop-in event. The first-come, first-served activity is free with a $25+ purchase from Asher: Off the Wall (or a $25 fee), while supplies last. 🕯️Member Discounts🕯️ HCCC members save 10% on retail, exhibition, and studio sales (some exclusions apply) throughout the year. However, in celebration of our Silver Anniversary, HCCC members are invited to enjoy 25% off one retail purchase at Asher: Off the Wall, September 19 – 30, 2026. Take advantage of this exclusive perk and become a member today! 🕯️Participating Artists🕯️ 6pm Candle Co. Haley Cloyd Chris Kerr-Ayer Gabo Martinez Jessica Ninci Angel Oloshove Meryl Pataky Louise Pennebaker
Company OnStage · 5720 Bellaire Blvd Suite G, Houston, TX 77081
Maricela and her younger sibling are out Christmas shopping when the weather takes an odd turn and all the people in the city disappear. Through a series of encounters with a moon god, a cyclops, Hercules, and a seven headed hydra, among other fantastic and mythical characters, they learn the importance of standing up for good and being the hero of your own story.
The Menil Collection · 1533 Sul Ross Street, Houston, TX 77006
The Menil Collection presents “John Akomfrah: The Hour Of The Dog”, an immersive, six-channel video and sound installation by the Ghanaian-born British artist Sir John Akomfrah (b. 1957). The work, co-commissioned by the Menil and the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA), explores the history of youth-led Civil Rights–era activism in the American South from 1954 to 1963. The 51-minute work is best experienced in its entirety, and will be on view at the Menil through October 11, 2026.
The Menil Drawing Institute · 1412 W. Main St., Houston, TX 77006
This exhibition highlights paper itself—and its incongruous and variable characteristics—as an artistic material. Included are works that present a range of processes, as well as paper sculptures and found papers that imbue a finished work with an additional sense of history and place.
The Menil Drawing Institute · 1412 W. Main St., Houston, TX 77006
The Menil Collection has commissioned artist Jitish Kallat to create a site-specific wall drawing for the entry space of the Menil Drawing Institute. Born in Mumbai, where he continues to live and work, Kallat is a leading figure in contemporary Indian art. His work often probes the intersections of the intimate and the immense, weaving together references to history, science, philosophy, and the cosmic scale of time.
FotoFest at Silver Street Studios · 2000 Edwards Street (Silver Street Studios Building C, Suite 2), Houston, TX 77007
Join us for a fun-filled Family Day at FotoFest on Saturday, October 10, from 11 AM to 2 PM! Bring your loved ones to participate in our FREE beginner-friendly drop-in collage workshop within the exhibition “FotoFinish 2026: Amass. Move. Reflect.” Guests will create personalized collages using a playing card as a background. Collage materials are provided, and you are welcome to bring your own for a unique touch. This event is organized by the FotoFest Learning Program, which has served thousands of students in the Greater Houston area in schools and community centers for more than thirty years with its photography-based art and writing projects. Our Literacy Through Photography curriculum and thoughtfully designed education projects, tours, and community events strengthen literacy and encourage agency. Afterward, enjoy complimentary refreshments and see art and writing at the Reception for “FotoFinish 2026.”
The Menil Collection · 1533 Sul Ross Street, Houston, TX 77006
“Terry Winters: Vitalized Geometry” presents 44 prints and works on paper by the American artist Terry Winters, who draws inspiration from mathematical systems and structures of the natural world. Celebrating two groups of gifts to the Menil and organized in close consultation with the artist, the career-spanning presentation explores the importance of printmaking to Winters’s practice and its dialogue with other forms of making.
Czech Cultural Center Houston (Czech Center Museum Houston) · 4920 San Jacinto, Houston, TX 77004
Learning, culture, and community—every Second Saturday! Students are invited to dive into Czech heritage through hands‑on activities and guided exploration at CCMH. A welcoming space for families to learn together. Students with a valid school I.D. receive FREE GENERAL ADMISSION to the Czech Center Museum Houston on the second Saturday of each month.
The Road to 40–A Retrospective of the Community Artists’ Collective
Community Artists’ Collective · 4111 Fannin St Suite 100, Houston, TX 77004
The Community Artists’ Collective will introduce its year-long 40th anniversary celebration to the public with “The Road to 40—A Retrospective of the Community Artists’ Collective.” The exhibition opens August 28 at 6 p.m. at The Collective, 4111 Fannin, Suite 100A. Curator Viktor Le Ewing-Givens notes that this retrospective exhibition honors the enduring legacy of the organization as a vital sanctuary for creative exchange and heritage preservation. Describing the exhibition which chronicles 40 years of art, impact and dedication, he continues, “through archival imagery, mixed media, fiber arts and immersive installation, we revisit the Collective’s meaningful impact and dynamic presence in the Houston cultural landscape. Ultimately, the space serves as a living sanctuary reflecting the invisible labor and sustained devotion of the intergenerational network of founders, local practitioners, and everyday culture-keepers who have continuously nurtured this ecosystem.” The exhibition opens the celebration of its milestone 40th anniversary leading up to FolkFest, a daylong event on February 27, 2027, which will take place on the Ion red lot city block (bounded by San Jacinto and Fannin and Cleburne and Wheeler) and will feature entertainment, food and art vendors and a visual history of The Collective’s years of activities. The exhibition, which continues through October 30, highlights The Collective’s four decades and addresses the future of the organization’s footprint. Visitors will learn when and why the organization was established and its impact on Houston’s art community and Black women artists in particular, its dedication to arts education for adults and youth and why the preservation of the cultural heritage of Houston’s Black community is important. In addition, the exhibit shows the impressive impact that The Collective has made on the economy of Houston neighborhoods and local artists, generating capital back to creators. Finally, this retrospective addresses the future sustainability of Black cultural institutions and how it will impact the next 40 years and those beyond. Admission to the exhibition is free. The Collective is open Thursday through Saturday from 12 noon to 5 p.m. and by appointment. Call 7113-523-1616 or visit www.thecollective.org. # # #
Maria Gaspar: We Press Our Hands to the Steel Curtain
Blaffer Art Museum at the University of Houston · 4173 Elgin St The University of Houston, Fine Arts Building, Houston, TX 77004
We Press Our Hands to the Steel Curtain brings together recent work that demonstrates how Gaspar engages with these carceral spaces, deploying time both as a tactic and material. The title is adapted from a line in Gloria Anzaldúa’s poem and essay “The Homeland, Aztlán/El otro México.” In dialogue with Anzaldúa’s writing, Gaspar sees walls as structures which shape psychic, social, and cultural terrains. Pressing hands might evoke healing or resistance: in either case, the gesture is dynamic and temporal.
Blaffer Art Museum at the University of Houston · 4173 Elgin St The University of Houston, Fine Arts Building, Houston, TX 77004
The Blaffer Museum at the University of Houston, in collaboration with the Fine Arts Center at Colorado College (FAC), is honored to present Adriana Corral: As Long as Life Endures. In new bodies of work, Corral studies the relationship between protection and vulnerability, between resilience and change. Continuing her ongoing exploration of human rights, Corral argues that such fundamental rights are only inscribed into cultural practice in the aftermath of violence and devastation. That tension–between crisis and redemption–underscores the ways in which such rights are not promised or permanent, but always in need of expansion and defense. At the heart of Corral’s project is an investigation of the forces that shape how life—and whose life—is valued. Religion, law, and civic infrastructure each aspire to provide protection, yet their histories reveal persistent failures and exclusions.
DiverseWorks – at MATCH Houston · 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
Join DiverseWorks for the opening of Overflow Radio: Šakotayišol Nunuš Constellation on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 5-9 PM. Developed in collaboration with Emily Johnson / Catalyst and local Indigenous and Native Heritage artists, the exhibition and related programming continue through October 24 at the DiverseWorks Gallery @ MATCH, 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002. The project includes talks, skill-shares, listening sessions, gatherings, an exhibition, and performances, featuring exhibiting artists Aveda Adara, Chiara “Sunshine” Beaumont, Christie “Chichi” Chafoya, Karen Navarro, Monica Villarreal, and Aryn Ward, with additional participating artists and community partners. In conjunction with Emily Johnson / Catalyst’s world premiere of Overflow Radio in Mni Sóta Makoce (Minneapolis), we will gather in person in Šakotayišol Nunuš or “Bear Creek Town” (Houston) to listen to twelve First Nations and Indigenous authors, poets, and scholars live-broadcasting from their home territories and First Nations over 24 non-consecutive hours from October 9–12. All programs are free and open to the public, but some require tickets and advance registration. Visit diverseworks.org for more information. OVERFLOW RADIO: Šakotayišol Nunuš Constellation October 3-24, 2026 DiverseWorks Gallery @ MATCH Saturday, October 3, 5 – 9 PM 5 PM Good Medicine Indigenous Music Festival 7 PM Opening Reception Friday, October 9 – Monday, October 12, 11:30 AM – 6 PM (first transmissions start at 12 PM each day) Listening Sessions, Skill Shares and Panel Discussions Friday, October 9, 6 PM Performance: Maize by ACT II Saturday, October 17, 6 PM Diverse Discourse Lecture w/Mary V. Bordeaux, Ed.D., Co-Founder & Co-Director, Racing Magpie Thursdays – Saturdays, 12 – 6 PM Exhibition Hours
Throughline Collective · 3909 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
An exhibition open to all ages, focusing on photography of Houston-based wildlife in urban neighborhoods. The project captures the tension, resilience, and often abrupt endings these animals dace as they struggle to adapt to a rapidly changing environment.
Layered and Unbound: An Exploration of Mixed Media
Sawyer Yards · 2101 Winter St, Houston, TX 77007
Step into a two-hour guided creative experience designed to help you begin without pressure, follow your curiosity, and create without a predetermined outcome. Throughout the experience, you’ll move through four mixed-media stations, allowing one evolving piece to grow layer by layer. You’ll begin with fluid color and movement, build with acrylic and texture, add expressive marks, and finish by gathering elements that feel meaningful to you. There is no right way for your piece to unfold. You can cover something up, change direction, leave something unfinished, or follow an unexpected idea. This is process over perfection. Exploration over expectation. ✨ You don’t have to know where you’re going to create something meaningful. THE EXPERIENCE You’ll move through four guided creative stations: 💧 FLOW & BEGIN | Ink + Fluid Base Layer Start with movement. Explore inks, washes, water, and fluid color as you create the first layer of your piece without trying to control exactly where it goes. 🎨 BUILD & DEFINE | Acrylic + Stencil Exploration Add structure, shape, pattern, and contrast using acrylics, stencils, brushes, tools, and palette knives. Follow what emerged—or transform it completely. ✏️ MARK & EXPRESS | Mixed Mark Making Let your marks become your voice. Experiment with line, rhythm, repetition, texture, pencil, pen, marker, pastel, stamps, and other tools without needing to “draw” anything recognizable. ✂️ GATHER & TELL | Washi Tape, Stamps + Ephemera Finish by gathering pieces that draw you in. Layer paper, washi tape, stamps, textures, and ephemera to add detail, connection, and story to your evolving work. WHAT’S INCLUDED • Four guided mixed-media stations • All creative materials and tools • Prompts to help you explore without overthinking • Two-hour guided creative experience • Your completed mixed-media artwork to take home • A calm, welcoming space where no artistic experience is required You don’t have to make it perfect. You don’t even have to know what you’re making. Just begin—and see where the process takes you.
Contemporary Arts Museum Houston (CAMH) · 5216 Montrose, Houston, TX 77006
Join us at our Fall Community Celebration for an afternoon of art-making activities inspired by CAMH’s current exhibitions. Live music by GOOD GRIEF and Apollo Chamber Players. Learn more about the Junior School at The Glassell School of Art. Hands-On Activities Scavenger Hunt for Themes and Objects Explore the exhibition, Mary Ellen Carroll: How To Talk Dirty and Influence People, for objects related to the central themes of the exhibition and take home one-of-a-kind CAMH swag for completing the scavenger hunt. Mindful Observation Explore the exhibition Divination: Beverly Buchanan & Dionne Lee using mindfulness exercises to slow down your gaze. Write A Postcard Create a small work of art, or write a note on a postcard, to share with a friend. CAMH will mail out all postcards on your behalf. This is a free, all-ages event.
University of Houston – Jose Quintero Theatre · School of Theater and Dance Office 3351 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204
Seven public defenders search for meaning, belonging, and something resembling order through their hurried quest for the perfect lunch – while battling ACS, inequality, burnout, and a heaping helping of existential dread. Director, Destyne Miller
Company OnStage · 5720 Bellaire Blvd Suite G, Houston, TX 77081
Maricela and her younger sibling are out Christmas shopping when the weather takes an odd turn and all the people in the city disappear. Through a series of encounters with a moon god, a cyclops, Hercules, and a seven headed hydra, among other fantastic and mythical characters, they learn the importance of standing up for good and being the hero of your own story.
Set in timeless Verona, two star-crossed souls defy the forces that seek to keep them apart. This production of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy shows how each generation reinvents what it means to love and risk everything for it. Discover why this tale continues to inspire artists, dreamers, and lovers.
Celebrate Global Mental Health day at the Fabric Forge community center on October 10th from 2 pm – 4 pm. The Intake Interview concert will feature a caricature artist, live painting, community organizations, and talented musicians to share how mental health and art are connected. The concert will also be livestreamed for people who are unable to physically attend. The event planners secured the Let Creativity Happen grant to partially fund the event. I would love for the opportunity to share this and music with your audience.
Reception for Across the Americas: FotoFest, Latin America, and Latino Cultures in the United States
FotoFest at Silver Street Studios · 2000 Edwards Street (Silver Street Studios Building C, Suite 2), Houston, TX 77007
Join FotoFest for its fall 2026 exhibition, “Across the Americas: FotoFest, Latin America, and Latino Cultures in the United States.” Executive director and curator Steven Evans will be present to greet guests. Enjoy complimentary refreshments and celebrate the artists, their work, and FotoFest’s long-standing engagement with Latin America and Latino communities in the United States. Reimagining work presented in the FotoFest Biennial 2026 alongside newly commissioned work, the exhibition revisits recurring themes that have emerged across generations of artists, national histories, and photographic traditions represented in FotoFest exhibitions over the past four decades. The Across the Americas exhibition is on view from October 1 to November 14, 2026. This reception is concurrent with the Reception for “FotoFinish 2026: Amass. Move. Reflect.”
Reception for FotoFinish 2026: Amass. Move. Reflect.
FotoFest at Silver Street Studios · 2000 Edwards Street (Silver Street Studios Building C, Suite 2), Houston, TX 77007
Join FotoFest’s Learning Program for this year’s annual student exhibition, “FotoFinish 2026: Amass. Move. Reflect.” Enjoy complimentary refreshments and celebrate photo-based works and creative writings by students that illustrate the intricacies of the human experience through food, relationships, and place. Through guided photographic and collage techniques, students document their lived experiences, bringing their voices to the table. Complementing these visual explorations are love letters to Houston, observations on the significance of play, and other compelling reflections. The photography and writing in “Amass. Move. Reflect.” illuminate student perspectives that pause, observe, and reflect on ordinary moments to gain a better understanding of self and one’s place in the world. The FotoFinish 2026 exhibition is on view from October 1 to November 14, 2026. This reception is concurrent with the Reception for “Across the Americas.”
Laura Dykes and Aryn Ward on/with Nanibah Chacon’s Where Two Rivers Meet
Moody Center for the Arts at Rice University · 6100 Main Street, Houston, TX 77005
Nameless Sound and Moody Center for the Arts present Nameless Sound Ensemble Members Laura Dykes and Aryn Ward Performing on and with Nanibah Chacon’s mixed media, sound installation Where Two Rivers Meet As part of The Moody Center’s Dimensions Variable series, in conjunction with the exhibition Radiant Geometries: Vectors of Knowledge from the Indigenous Americas Laura Dykes – double bass Aryn Ward – winds, percussion Dimensions Variable October 10, 3 – 5 pm Performance schedule forthcoming At Moody Center for the Arts, Rice University Photo: Nanibah Chacon and Lucas Gonzalez, EMI Naahasslii, 2025. Installation view: Making a Noise: Indigenous Sound Art at the Shelburne Museum, Vermont.
Hooks-Epstein Galleries proudly presents the second stateside exhibition of UK-based artist, David Farrer. An exhibition of papier-mâché sculptures, “The Glass Menagerie” will open on Saturday, October 10, 2026 with an Artist Talk at 4:00PM, followed by the Opening Reception from 5:00PM–7:00PM. In addition, a special Gallery Conversation with Farrer will take place on Sunday, October 11, 2026 from 1:00PM-2:30PM. The exhibition will continue through November 21, 2026. David Farrer’s sculptural practice is rooted in a lifelong appreciation for wildlife, the English countryside, and the freedom of imagination. Born in Leeds and raised in the historic village of Spofforth, Farrer recalls a happy family life as the youngest of four siblings, with an upbringing that encouraged curiosity and a sense of adventure. Early influences such as The Wombles and Bagpuss, beloved children’s programs, reinforced an early appreciation for making, reusing, and finding new purpose in discarded materials—an ethos that remains central to his work today. Africa has long been central to Farrer’s artistic inspiration. His time on safari provided invaluable reference material for his sculptures and deepened his interest in the continent’s wildlife and the impact of trophy hunting. His papier-mâché animal sculptures gently subvert the traditional hunting trophy, transforming a familiar form into something playful, yet unexpected and contemplative. Farrer’s ingenuity is also evident in the way he transforms recycled materials, incorporating text and imagery into the finished pieces. While his work began with African wildlife, Farrer has since expanded his subjects to creatures from around the world, both great and small, heroic or diminutive. Each sculpture reflects his interest in the character and symbolism of the animal, while celebrating the imaginative possibilities of humble, repurposed materials. David Farrer studied Fine Art in Sunderland, UK and at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, the Netherlands, graduating with a BA (Hons) in Fine Art in 1990, with a focus on printmaking before turning to sculpture. An avid wildlife photographer and nature enthusiast, he has exhibited internationally, with his work held in private and corporate collections including Patek Philippe (Geneva), Fortnum & Mason (London), Standard Chartered Bank (London), and The Pig Hotel Group (UK). Publicly known collectors of Farrer’s work include novelist John Le Carre, late actress Carrie Fisher, and The Prodigy band musician Liam Howlett. His work has also been featured in film and television. Farrer resides in a village near Oxford, England.
Bust out your black velvet because this is an art night for the goths! To celebrate Halloween and spooky season, join MERGE for a special all-black painting and poetry night. The challenge for this sip and create will be to create artwork that pairs dark poetry with our favorite color: Black (or maybe really really really dark gray). Attendees are welcome to dress up in their spookiest duds. Hosted by your resident emo, Holly Lyn Walrath, “Houston’s most darksome poet”.
Community Artists’ Collective · 4111 Fannin St Suite 100, Houston, TX 77004
A girls’ trip. A journey of healing. A powerful reminder that even the strong ones need space to cry. What happens when the people everyone depends on finally allow themselves to be vulnerable? Let the Strong Ones Cry, a powerful Gospel stage play written, produced, and directed by Deloris Hervey of DD’s Showbiz, explores friendship, healing, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to face life’s deepest wounds. Set against the backdrop of a girls’ trip that journeys from laughter to tears, this inspiring production reminds audiences that true strength is found in faith, honesty, and healing. Join us for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, encouragement, and transformation. Let the Strong Ones Cry Date: October 10 Location: Freedom House International Church Address: 816 E. Whitney St., Houston, TX 77022 Doors Open: 4:15 p.m. Show Begins: 5:00 p.m. Tickets & Information: www.ddshowbiz.com Contact: Deloris Hervey at [email protected]
Kam Franklin and Homegirl Island Record are proud to present “House Of The Neon Sun. A two part event featuring brand new music from Kam’s debut solo album,”Land Of The Neon Sun”. This is the GRAMMY winner and lead singer of The Suffers’ first solo album, and it was funded by Ms.Franklin’s loyal community of music supporters, and a grant from the Houston Arts Alliance. Part one is FREE to the public, ALL AGES, and will feature a public panel with music entertainment leaders, talent buyers, artists, and other culture bearers that can answer questions that may help local artists trying to navigate their way in this complicated industry. The conversation will be moderated by Kam, and will conclude with a short acoustic performance of songs from the new album ahead of the larger celebration happening later that evening. Part two of the evening is a full night of live music with Kam Franklin, her solo band of musical shredders, and a short list of special guest openers she’s looking forward to introducing to her audience. Advance tickets are available and recommended for what is sure to be an incredible night of music celebrating an album that took almost 8 years for her to finish. Co-produced by Franklin with Margo Price and featuring collaborations with Kevin Morby and Jackie Venson, Land of the Neon Sun is a 12-song joyride that embraces experimentation, individuality and vulnerability. It’s a snapshot of an artist who’s learned to lean into her perspective instead of contorting it into what anybody else has in mind. Track after track, Franklin subverts expectations. Country-tinged storytelling is followed by trippy calls to action, then subdued strings and playful electronic fillips. Her voice––a rolling Southern gale that’s a genre unto itself––anchors as the music moves through a roots smorgasbord of growling guitars, psychedelic gospel and sparse folk. For this labor of love and creative freedom, Franklin had saved her own money for years, then launched a successful Kickstarter campaign to fund the record. Reflecting on all the growth and work, she is excited and grateful: “This album is for anyone. I think that love, friendship, and human connection are the things that will allow us to get through. I’m really glad I’ve done this, and I’m really glad I’ve done it this way.” As the hard-driving, heart-pounding frontwoman of Houston band The Suffers, Franklin has won over folks like David Letterman and Jimmy Kimmel, everywhere from the Newport Folk Festival to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and NPR’s Tiny Desk. Three albums and thousands of shows later, The Suffers are currently at work on their fourth record. As a solo artist, Franklin’s collaborations have cemented her reputation as an artist’s artist, fearless political activist and invigorating creative partner. She contributed her signature vocals to the 2026 Grammy-winning Clifton Chenier project, A Tribute to the King of Zydeco. In 2022, she founded the Bayou City Comeback Chorus, and went on to release two EPs with the group, which blend psychedelic funk and traditional choral music with gutsy panache. In 2021, she joined Chaka Khan, Brandi Carlile, Price, Yola, and more as part of Allison Russell’s “Once and Future” sounds on the Newport mainstage. In 2018, she released a single with Grammy-winning Tejano legends La Mafia. The previous year, she sang with the Houston Symphony, and in 2016, she performed in the March For Science band alongside Jon Batiste and Stay Human, Questlove, Judith Hill, and Fred Wesley. She is a frequent panelist at festivals and on podcasts, as well as an in-demand author, penning pieces on race, gender, and the arts for outlets including Vice and Forbes.
Catherine Couturier Gallery is pleased to present Cara Barer: Camera Work, the gallery’s second solo exhibition by the Houston-based artist. Through this stunning new body of work, she breathes new life into old books, exploring the ephemerality of the physical medium in today’s digital age. Barer’s unique approach begins with the hand-sculpting and dyeing of disused books; old manuals, outdated reference books, and the like are selected for their obsolete value, long since replaced by online materials. In prior bodies of work, these sculptural objects are then photographed using a scanner, capturing a single dimension of the book. Barer kept each and every sculpture and slowly began to look at them from new angles. In Camera Work, Barer abandons the scanner bed for the camera, photographing the sculptures in the natural light of the studio, waiting for the perfect light each day and exposing new dimensions to the work. The resulting images are vibrant, sun-drenched, and entirely captivating. Cara Barer has exhibited in solo and group shows throughout the US and Canada since 1994. Her work has been featured extensively in such publications as New York Magazine, The Washington Post, Harper’s Magazine, The Boston Globe and The New Yorker, and can be found in the collections of Bloomingdale’s, Saks, Lehigh University, Nordstrom, United States Embassy, Kyiv, Ukraine, VISA, Wells Fargo Bank and Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Please join us for the opening reception on Saturday, October 10 from 5 to 7 pm at Catherine Couturier Gallery!
ROCO opens The W.T. & Louise J. Moran Foundation Connections Series with a vibrant concert featuring ROCO Principal Tuba Ali Jackson. The largest instrument in ROCO’s brass section takes center stage for an evening that celebrates rhythm, community, and the rich traditions that shape music around the world. Hosted at Parker Elementary School, the program explores the versatility of the tuba through works ranging from lyrical sonatas to spirited Caribbean-inspired music featuring steel drums. Blending classical repertoire with global influences, we invite audiences to experience the tuba in fresh and unexpected ways while highlighting the joy of musical discovery.
BOX 13 ArtSpace is pleased to present four new exhibitions opening Friday, September 11 , 2026 6–9 PM. BOX 13 ArtSpace is pleased to present in the Front BOX gallery: “Cryptic Bodies,” an exhibition of four interdisciplinary Houston-based femme artists who work in sculpture, collage, zines, and socially engaged practices. As one excavates their layered work, bodies are revealed, both human, non-human, touching upon women’s health, fragmentary memories, and interconnected ecosystems and identities. The exhibit in the Back gallery features Chris Ireland’s “Dead Letter Office,” which explores home, memory, and placelessness through carefully constructed collages that combine fragments from lived experience, online archives, real estate listings, and personal photographs. For “Mother Earth Weaves Infinite” in the Box 13 Window BOX Gallery, Cathie Kayser and Ellen H Ray use a variety of materials and techniques, including fabrics, mulberry silks, soft sculpture, paper mache, and wire and paper sculptures to present an immersive experience that highlights the complexity of the mycorrhizal network. With this work, the artists invite viewers to consider the interconnectedness of all living systems. The Earth, and the universe encompassing it, is a master plan of intelligent design that holds lessons for us about systems that work. Moving to our Upstairs BOX gallery we are excited to introduce “Grip Strength: An Army of Lovers Shall Not Fail” by KT Abadir-Mullally. Through interactive soft sculptures and ceramics inspired by strength sports and queer activism, the exhibition invites visitors to engage with themes of queer resilience, desire, collective power, and resistance. The exhibitions continue through October 10, 2026. An Opening Reception will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, 6–9 PM at BOX 13 ArtSpace, 6700 Harrisburg, Houston, TX 77011. This event is funded in part by the City of Houston through the Houston Arts Alliance and Houston MOCA. Additional support is provided by The Brown Foundation, Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Giant Texas Distillers, JP Morgan – Nancy O’Connor Fund, and all who help make our programming possible.
Miller Outdoor Theatre · 6000 Hermann Park Dr., Houston, TX 77030
A Gulf Coast audience favorite, the 37th annual Accordion Kings & Queens (AKQ) concert returns to Miller Outdoor Theatre (MOT) on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 7pm to 10pm. Presented by Texas Folklife, this annual concert spotlights the accordion’s powerful role across Texas cultural communities and the many styles it brings to the stage: polka, conjunto, Zydeco, Cajun, Tejano, swing and more. Headliner Rockin’ Dopsie Jr. and The Zydeco Twisters will be joined by Jude Moreau and the Bon Temps Playboys, and Susan Torres y Conjunto Los Pinkys will open the evening. Save the Date music lovers! Put on your dancing shoes. The 37th annual Accordion Kings & Queens concert on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 7pm to 10pm, at Miller Outdoor Theatre, 6000 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030 in Hermann Park.
Russian Cultural Center “Our Texas” · 2337 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
The Cultural Center “Our Texas” will host Havana: Where the Past Meets the Future, a collaborative exhibition featuring Cuban-American artist Timoteo Domínguez Fuentes and Russian-American photographer Vladimir Frumin. This visual dialogue brings together painting and photography to explore themes of identity, memory, and resilience. Domínguez Fuentes’ paintings examine migration, cultural identity, spirituality, and social resilience through vibrant, emotionally charged figurative compositions. His work merges traditional artistic language with contemporary conceptual approaches, reflecting on collective memory and the enduring strength of communities facing displacement and change. His work has been exhibited at venues including the YMCA and World Refugee Houston, and his murals can be found in hotels, restaurants, and schools across Houston, Cancún, and Havana. In Cuba, he was recognized as a winner of the “Panchito Simón” Municipal Plastic Arts Competition. Vladimir Frumin’s photography complements these themes through stark, contemplative images of neglected urban spaces—such as deserted parks and abandoned buildings—as well as portraits of isolated individuals. His work captures the quiet dignity of those living on the margins of society. His photography has received international recognition, including the Sony World Photography Awards for Conceptual Art (2016) and Portraits (2023). His work was exhibited at Somerset House in London. In 2016, Frumin received the Carol Crow Fellowship Award at the Houston Center for Photography for the documentary “Everybody’s 5th Ward,” as well as Black & White Magazine’s Excellence Award (2011) and Spotlight Award (2014). Together, the artists create a compelling narrative of shared human experience, bridging cultural and geographic divides through empathy and visual storytelling. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
University of Houston – Jose Quintero Theatre · School of Theater and Dance Office 3351 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204
Seven public defenders search for meaning, belonging, and something resembling order through their hurried quest for the perfect lunch – while battling ACS, inequality, burnout, and a heaping helping of existential dread. Director, Destyne Miller
Company OnStage · 5720 Bellaire Blvd Suite G, Houston, TX 77081
WORLD PREMIERE CO-PRODUCED WITH THE PHOENIX GROUP We Only Come Out at Night is a world-premiere play by local playwright Austin Brady that follows Elizabeth and Benji, co-owners of a Houston bar. When a chance encounter with three unsuspecting bar patrons reveals Elizabeth’s supernatural secret, this laugh-out-loud thriller transforms into a surprisingly heartfelt exploration of loneliness, loyalty, and making the best of what life gives you. This event is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.
MATCH Houston (Midtown Arts and Theater Center Houston) · 3400 Main St., Houston, TX 77002
“Oh, a rhinoceros!” A rhinoceros gallops and trumpets through a sleepy town, trampling all in its path as it goes. Soon there’s another, then another and another until it comes clear that the general population is opting out of humanity, to “move with the times.” A subversive comedy filled with biting wit and nightmarish anxiety, absurdist master Eugene Ionesco wrote Rhinoceros in reaction to the fascism, conformity, and senseless violence that surrounded him during WWII. Starring George Parker and Kyle Sturdivant, revisiting their roles from 2017’s smash-hit production. Directed by Tamarie Cooper.
Toyota Center · 1510 Polk Street., Houston, TX 77002
Toyota Center is excited to welcome Puerto Rican urban music pioneer Yandel to the stage on October 10 for the Yandel Sinfónico USA Tour 2026! The tour brings Yandel’s electrifying reggaeton hits to life as an innovative live experience, fusing them with the majestic sound of a live philharmonic orchestra. This groundbreaking experience established Yandel as the first artist in his genre to reimagine his greatest hits in a symphonic format and embark on a live tour alongside orchestras worldwide, joined by his full band and dance crew to deliver a show that merges the rhythm of reggaeton with the sophistication of classical music. Don’t miss your chance to experience this amazing performance live this fall!
Set in timeless Verona, two star-crossed souls defy the forces that seek to keep them apart. This production of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy shows how each generation reinvents what it means to love and risk everything for it. Discover why this tale continues to inspire artists, dreamers, and lovers.
Experience the brilliance of two Classical masters in a program overflowing with energy, elegance, and wit. Mozart’s sparkling Haffner Symphony and Haydn’s triumphant London Symphony showcase the creativity and innovation that defined an era. Performed on period instruments, these beloved works come alive with the vibrant sound and excitement that audiences first experienced centuries ago.
The Jimi Hendrix of the Sitar: Niladri Kumar in The Space Between the Notes
Stafford Centre · 10505 Cash Rd, Houston, TX 77477
Hailed as the Jimi Hendrix of the sitar, Niladri Kumar plays both the classical sitar and the Zitar, the electric sitar he invented in 2002. His bends stop guitarists in their tracks. One night only at the Stafford Centre. When it seemed nothing more could be done with the sitar, Niladri Kumar went ahead and reinvented it. He is deeply rooted in Indian classical tradition and a restless innovator. He moves freely between pure raga, contemporary music, film scores and cross-cultural collaborations. In The Space Between the Notes, Niladri and his ensemble carry this music into a new generation, a direction his mentor Zakir Hussain wholeheartedly championed. Expect the full range, from classical depth to electric fire, in a single evening. Presented by the Society for Indo-American Arts with presenting partner Ismaili Council.
A lively group art exhibition at Toros HTX celebrating the energy, drama, and joy of soccer. This dynamic showcase transforms the beautiful game into a visual experience, featuring painted soccer balls, vibrant canvas artworks, and imaginative pieces inspired by movement, teamwork, competition, and play. From bold colors and expressive textures to unexpected takes on familiar soccer symbols, Re-Play invites viewers to see the sport from a whole new angle. Come explore the gallery, meet the artists, connect with fellow soccer fans, and experience an evening where art and athletics collide. Whether you live for match day, love contemporary art, or simply enjoy a great night out, there’s something here for everyone. Come for the art. Stay for the atmosphere. Leave inspired. **Join us for the opening reception of Re-Play, on Tuesday, September 15th from 6pm to 9pm**
The Silos at Sawyer Yards, Gallery 200 · 1502 Sawyer Street, Suite 224, Houston, TX 77007
ThinkINK 2026: PrintHouston’s Annual Members’ Exhibition, curated by Jordan Bolduc and Jailyne España, features original printmaking techniques: lithography, woodcut, linoleum cut, etching, drypoint, metal engraving, and screenprint. Since 2009 PrintHouston has grown into an art organization representing a growing global community of printmakers and print supporters. Featured Artists: Andis Applewhite, Pat Barton, Linda Behar, Hannah Bender, Janet Best Badger, Randy Clark, Lucinda Cobley, Jonas Criscoe, Pat Doran Porcynaluk, Jessica Farris, Orna Feinstein, Melisa Gerecci, Kevin Haas, William H. Hays, Yuji Hiratsuka, Vivian Hordes, Cathie Kayser, Hank Mattson, Eileen McClellan, Susu Meyer, Sharon Navage, Peter Nickel, Donna E Perkins, Kathleen B Pittman, Charlotte Seifert, Nomi Silverman, Dorothea Van Camp Opening Reception September 26, 2026 6pm-8pm
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church · 5501 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004
Gordon Education is excited to announce its 2026 Summer Film Camps, offering four immersive programs for young creatives aged 9 to 17. Each filmmaking camp focuses on a different genre: Historical, Changemakers, Documentary, and Narrative Fiction, allowing aspiring filmmakers to explore the art of cinema from multiple perspectives while developing their own voice. Narrative Fiction Filmmaking Camp | Ages 9 – 13 | 9 am – 3 pm July 13-17 at St. Paul’s School Young storytellers unleash their wildest creative visions in this story-driven filmmaking camp. Whether their movie is set in outer space or under the sea, campers have full artistic license to bring their unique ideas to the screen. Together, they will write, film, direct, and act in an original production, using the “Hero’s Journey” as a roadmap to learn the essentials of storytelling. Camp Leaders for the Time-Traveling Historical Camp are Dan Gordon and Bri Guerrero. Dan Gordon leads the Changemakers and Documentary Camps, and Bri Guerrero leads the Narrative Fiction Camp. Space is limited, and scholarships are available.
Asia Society Texas Center · 1370 Southmore Blvd., Houston, TX 77004
Yoshitaka Amano is one of the most celebrated animators of our time, responsible for the creative direction of iconic media universes, including the groundbreaking anime ‘Speed Racer’ and the beloved ‘Final Fantasy’ video game saga. ‘Yoshitaka Amano: Big Bang’ surveys approximately 30 years of Amano’s multimedia paintings, introducing visitors to his spellbinding visual arts lexicon. The exhibition features approximately 40 works in oil paint, ink, and automotive paint. Monumental paintings explode with Amano’s signature, dreamlike visions of figures inhabiting fantastic, highly wrought environments. The exhibition will have an exclusive member preview September 16–20. It will open September 23 and remain on view through February 7, 2027.
The Health Museum’s The Fatherhood Effect Healing Arts Exhibition
The Health Museum · 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston, TX 77004
The Health Museum, an interactive health science museum located in the heart of the Houston Museum District, will debut their newest exhibition The Fatherhood Effect as part of the Healing Arts Program at a preview party on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. Six awards will be presented during the reception at 7 p.m. The exhibition will open to the public on Saturday, August 15, 2026, and will remain on display at The Health Museum until January 27, 2027. Through an open call for art, The Health Museum received powerful submissions of visual art that positioned fatherhood as a public health approach to healthier living. By elevating local stories and lived experiences, the exhibition invited reflection on how fatherhood has evolved over the past three decades—and how meaningful, engaged fatherhood contributes to healthier children, stronger families, and more connected communities. Through the arts and public health perspective, The Fatherhood Effect highlights fathers as present, nurturing, and deeply involved in caregiving. The exhibition challenges outdated stereotypes that define fathers solely as providers, and instead emphasizes care, emotional connection, and shared responsibility as essential elements of fatherhood. The artwork selection was juried by community leaders and fathers including Houston City Council Member District I Joaquin Martinez, Director of Harris County Boards and Commissions Daniel Santamaria, Director of Community Engagement for the Alzheimer’s Association Jorge Olvera, Founder and CEO of The Color of Coffee Collective Keith Hawkins, and Founder and Director of CoolxDad Kevin Barnett. Tickets for the exhibit preview reception on August 14, 2026, are available at 3586.blackbaudhosting.com/3586/Fatherhood-Effect-Preview-Reception and are $10 for Museum members and $20 for non-members. All tickets include live music, light bites, beverages, and free parking in the Museum’s surface lot. Doors open at 6pm and the awards will be announced at 7pm. The Healing Arts Program was launched in 2024 with a gallery opening for “Healing Hands: A Collection of Caregiver Expressions on Mental Wellness” and was created to explore the intersections of art, medicine, and culture, and provide the community with an outlet for processing experiences relating to physical and mental health. Through workshops, exhibitions, and community engagement, the program has increased the museum’s capacity for connection and healing in the Houston community. The Healing Arts Program focuses on connection, creativity, critical thinking, and compassionate dialogue, through a lens that healthier communities can be built through collaboration between individuals, educators, artists, and healthcare professionals.
Memorial Park · 6501 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77007
Bayou City Art Festival Memorial Park on Friday-Sunday, October 9-11, 2026 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The outdoor gallery will take over Memorial Park offering patrons the opportunity to meet artists, view original works, and purchase one-of-a-kind art, world-class paintings, prints, jewelry, sculptures, functional art, and more. The three-day festival will feature live entertainment stages, a food truck park, and beverage stations throughout the festival. Guests will enjoy Houston’s iconic Memorial Park while enjoying the festival’s wine and craft beer garden. For the ultimate art lover, Bayou City Art Festival will offer a limited availability VIP Hospitality Lounge, which will include complimentary light bites, beer, wine, and other refreshments. The relaxing setting under a canopy of trees will feature roaming musicians, artistic décor, and more. VIPs will receive access from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. to the VIP area, and VIP parking.
Pedalisa Art Houston Sugarland Studio · 2309 Williams Trace Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Discover the colorful art of Turkish mosaic lamp making at Pedalisa Art’s Sugar Land studio in the Houston area! During this fun, beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll choose your colors and patterns, then decorate your own lamp with vibrant glass tiles and beads. Our friendly instructors will guide you step by step, so no previous art experience is needed. Your workshop includes: • All mosaic materials and tools • Step-by-step guidance • Your selected lamp to create and take home • Turkish tea, baklava, and Turkish delight • Approximately 2–2.5 hours of creative fun After the workshop, you’ll take your handmade lamp home and receive simple instructions for completing the final grouting step. This unique Houston-area experience is perfect for date nights, birthdays, family outings, girls’ nights, team-building events, and anyone looking for a memorable creative activity. Ages 7 and up. Advance booking is recommended, as seating is limited. Come relax, get creative, and leave with a beautiful Turkish mosaic lamp made by you. Reserve your seat today!
The Menil Collection · 1533 Sul Ross Street, Houston, TX 77006
The Menil Collection presents “John Akomfrah: The Hour Of The Dog”, an immersive, six-channel video and sound installation by the Ghanaian-born British artist Sir John Akomfrah (b. 1957). The work, co-commissioned by the Menil and the Baltimore Museum of Art (BMA), explores the history of youth-led Civil Rights–era activism in the American South from 1954 to 1963. The 51-minute work is best experienced in its entirety, and will be on view at the Menil through October 11, 2026.
The Menil Drawing Institute · 1412 W. Main St., Houston, TX 77006
This exhibition highlights paper itself—and its incongruous and variable characteristics—as an artistic material. Included are works that present a range of processes, as well as paper sculptures and found papers that imbue a finished work with an additional sense of history and place.
The Menil Drawing Institute · 1412 W. Main St., Houston, TX 77006
The Menil Collection has commissioned artist Jitish Kallat to create a site-specific wall drawing for the entry space of the Menil Drawing Institute. Born in Mumbai, where he continues to live and work, Kallat is a leading figure in contemporary Indian art. His work often probes the intersections of the intimate and the immense, weaving together references to history, science, philosophy, and the cosmic scale of time.
The Menil Collection · 1533 Sul Ross Street, Houston, TX 77006
“Terry Winters: Vitalized Geometry” presents 44 prints and works on paper by the American artist Terry Winters, who draws inspiration from mathematical systems and structures of the natural world. Celebrating two groups of gifts to the Menil and organized in close consultation with the artist, the career-spanning presentation explores the importance of printmaking to Winters’s practice and its dialogue with other forms of making.
DiverseWorks – at MATCH Houston · 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
Join DiverseWorks for the opening of Overflow Radio: Šakotayišol Nunuš Constellation on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 5-9 PM. Developed in collaboration with Emily Johnson / Catalyst and local Indigenous and Native Heritage artists, the exhibition and related programming continue through October 24 at the DiverseWorks Gallery @ MATCH, 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002. The project includes talks, skill-shares, listening sessions, gatherings, an exhibition, and performances, featuring exhibiting artists Aveda Adara, Chiara “Sunshine” Beaumont, Christie “Chichi” Chafoya, Karen Navarro, Monica Villarreal, and Aryn Ward, with additional participating artists and community partners. In conjunction with Emily Johnson / Catalyst’s world premiere of Overflow Radio in Mni Sóta Makoce (Minneapolis), we will gather in person in Šakotayišol Nunuš or “Bear Creek Town” (Houston) to listen to twelve First Nations and Indigenous authors, poets, and scholars live-broadcasting from their home territories and First Nations over 24 non-consecutive hours from October 9–12. All programs are free and open to the public, but some require tickets and advance registration. Visit diverseworks.org for more information. OVERFLOW RADIO: Šakotayišol Nunuš Constellation October 3-24, 2026 DiverseWorks Gallery @ MATCH Saturday, October 3, 5 – 9 PM 5 PM Good Medicine Indigenous Music Festival 7 PM Opening Reception Friday, October 9 – Monday, October 12, 11:30 AM – 6 PM (first transmissions start at 12 PM each day) Listening Sessions, Skill Shares and Panel Discussions Friday, October 9, 6 PM Performance: Maize by ACT II Saturday, October 17, 6 PM Diverse Discourse Lecture w/Mary V. Bordeaux, Ed.D., Co-Founder & Co-Director, Racing Magpie Thursdays – Saturdays, 12 – 6 PM Exhibition Hours
“PEACE, NOT WAR” — FAMILY-FRIENDLY ASPHALT DRAWING CONTEST
Russian Cultural Center “Our Texas” · 2337 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
Children and families are invited to turn pavement into a colorful celebration of peace, friendship, and hope. Using colorful sidewalk chalk, children and families will be encouraged to express their ideas about peace, friendship, kindness, unity, and a world without war. The event is designed to bring families and the Houston community together through art and a positive message. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, and no professional art experience is necessary—just imagination and a desire to create. Participation is free. Chalk will be provided, and prizes will be awarded to participants. Advance registration is requested.
Set in timeless Verona, two star-crossed souls defy the forces that seek to keep them apart. This production of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy shows how each generation reinvents what it means to love and risk everything for it. Discover why this tale continues to inspire artists, dreamers, and lovers.
University of Houston – Jose Quintero Theatre · School of Theater and Dance Office 3351 Cullen Blvd., Houston, TX 77204
Seven public defenders search for meaning, belonging, and something resembling order through their hurried quest for the perfect lunch – while battling ACS, inequality, burnout, and a heaping helping of existential dread. Director, Destyne Miller
Company OnStage · 5720 Bellaire Blvd Suite G, Houston, TX 77081
WORLD PREMIERE CO-PRODUCED WITH THE PHOENIX GROUP We Only Come Out at Night is a world-premiere play by local playwright Austin Brady that follows Elizabeth and Benji, co-owners of a Houston bar. When a chance encounter with three unsuspecting bar patrons reveals Elizabeth’s supernatural secret, this laugh-out-loud thriller transforms into a surprisingly heartfelt exploration of loneliness, loyalty, and making the best of what life gives you. This event is funded in part by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance.
The Warehouse District’s story begins with Buffalo Bayou. Nearby, Frost Town was settled at a bend in the bayou before Houston was founded in 1836, and the early Port of Houston at Allen’s Landing later drew commerce and industry to the area. As railroads converged here beginning in the 1850s, houses gradually gave way to warehouses, factories, and other businesses serving a rapidly growing city. Many of the surviving industrial buildings were constructed between the 1880s and 1920s. Our 90-minute, docent-guided walk will explore those layers of history through the buildings that remain. We’ll see the 1902 Willow Street Pump Station, centerpiece of Houston’s first sewer system; handsome brick warehouses built for machinery, paint and other goods; an 1880 neighborhood grocery that is among the city’s older surviving commercial buildings; and remnants of the community that developed around Houston’s early rail hub. We’ll also trace the Warehouse District’s more recent reinvention. Beginning in the 1980s, artists, developers, and preservationists found new possibilities in buildings left behind by industry. Former warehouses became studios, offices, and residential lofts, helping transform the neighborhood while preserving important pieces of its industrial past. Along the way, we’ll uncover some unexpected Houston stories — including that of a saloon named for, and then famously attacked by, temperance crusader Carry Nation.
Who Killed the Fourth Ward? is a three part documentary filmed in 1976 that follows three filmmakers on a journey to talk with residents, government officials, reporters, and community leaders to examine the existential forcing encroaching onto the historic Black neighborhood, Freedmen’s Town. In Part 1, entitled WITNESSES, the film team examines their own perspectives and ignorance as they begin to familiarize themselves with the current state of Fourth Ward, identifying the pressures facing the community and whether these anxieties are innocuous or systematic. FREE for Freedmen’s Town Residents
Throughline Collective · 3909 Main St, Houston, TX 77002
Join us for the final opportunity to experience “Imprinted Landscapes” , featuring new works by member artists Beatríz Bellorín and Sarah Sudhoff Don’t miss this chance to engage with the exhibition and celebrate with the artists and community before the show closes. This exhibition is funded in part by the @CityofHouston through @houstonartsalliance
Houston Swing Dance Society · 110 Milby St Suite A1, Houston, TX 77003
Join us for a drop-in dance lesson and social dancing every Sunday from 7:30-9:30 PM! We also have 4-week classes that start on the first Sunday of each month.
Set in timeless Verona, two star-crossed souls defy the forces that seek to keep them apart. This production of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy shows how each generation reinvents what it means to love and risk everything for it. Discover why this tale continues to inspire artists, dreamers, and lovers.
Houston Public Library – Central (Jesse H. Jones) · 500 McKinney, Houston, TX 77002
Fashion Fusion X: Inspired by Frida Kahlo features garments from the tenth anniversary of Fashion Fusion, an annual competition and runway show presented by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), and the award-winning Fashion Design program at Houston City College (HCC). This year, HCC students and alumni designed original outfits inspired by the MFAH’s recent exhibition, Frida: The Making of an Icon, which was devoted to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo’s life and legacy. The garments created by HCC’s emerging designers were entered into one of four representative categories: Regenerate, Reimagine, Reengineer, or Reveal. This community tour showcases the winning outfits from the competition. Student Winners Reimagine: Darrion Nguyen – Blossoms in Maroon Regenerate: Remi Erinle – Beauty Around the World Reengineer: Tanya Roche – Hummingbird Alumni Winners Reimagine: Tatyana Miller – El Cantor Regenerate: Ebonie Sophus – The Blooming Confluence Reengineer: Kim Lai – Appearances Reveal: Estefania Espindola – Resiliences Audience Choice Winner Estefania Espindola – Proudly Tehuano
The Houston Saengerbund · 1703 Heights Blvd, Houston, TX 77008
ConTempo Studios Presents: An Artist Seminar with Cecilia Duarte! This one hour, artist seminar serves our ConTempo artists as well as rising graduates entering the opera or classical music industry. More than just a Q&A, Cecy dives head first in the nitty gritty as she tells her own story, struggles and triumphs, with all of you while giving advice and real-life techniques to cope and conquer with various performance issues. $5 Registration Fee Cecy Duarte is an nationally recognized mezzo-soprano and mental health practitioner LPCA. Through her career and following her need to help others, she started “duARTE Mental Health” where she examines and alleviates issues like performance anxiety and other ailments on the body like depression and body issues since these directly influence the way we experience the stage.
Russian Cultural Center “Our Texas” · 2337 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
The Cultural Center “Our Texas” will host Havana: Where the Past Meets the Future, a collaborative exhibition featuring Cuban-American artist Timoteo Domínguez Fuentes and Russian-American photographer Vladimir Frumin. This visual dialogue brings together painting and photography to explore themes of identity, memory, and resilience. Domínguez Fuentes’ paintings examine migration, cultural identity, spirituality, and social resilience through vibrant, emotionally charged figurative compositions. His work merges traditional artistic language with contemporary conceptual approaches, reflecting on collective memory and the enduring strength of communities facing displacement and change. His work has been exhibited at venues including the YMCA and World Refugee Houston, and his murals can be found in hotels, restaurants, and schools across Houston, Cancún, and Havana. In Cuba, he was recognized as a winner of the “Panchito Simón” Municipal Plastic Arts Competition. Vladimir Frumin’s photography complements these themes through stark, contemplative images of neglected urban spaces—such as deserted parks and abandoned buildings—as well as portraits of isolated individuals. His work captures the quiet dignity of those living on the margins of society. His photography has received international recognition, including the Sony World Photography Awards for Conceptual Art (2016) and Portraits (2023). His work was exhibited at Somerset House in London. In 2016, Frumin received the Carol Crow Fellowship Award at the Houston Center for Photography for the documentary “Everybody’s 5th Ward,” as well as Black & White Magazine’s Excellence Award (2011) and Spotlight Award (2014). Together, the artists create a compelling narrative of shared human experience, bridging cultural and geographic divides through empathy and visual storytelling. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
A lively group art exhibition at Toros HTX celebrating the energy, drama, and joy of soccer. This dynamic showcase transforms the beautiful game into a visual experience, featuring painted soccer balls, vibrant canvas artworks, and imaginative pieces inspired by movement, teamwork, competition, and play. From bold colors and expressive textures to unexpected takes on familiar soccer symbols, Re-Play invites viewers to see the sport from a whole new angle. Come explore the gallery, meet the artists, connect with fellow soccer fans, and experience an evening where art and athletics collide. Whether you live for match day, love contemporary art, or simply enjoy a great night out, there’s something here for everyone. Come for the art. Stay for the atmosphere. Leave inspired. **Join us for the opening reception of Re-Play, on Tuesday, September 15th from 6pm to 9pm**
Wish You Were Here – A PLAYformance for Kids of All Abilities and their Families
Burnett Bayland Community Center · 6026 Chimney Rock Rd, Houston, TX 77081
Let’s go on an imaginary trip! How about the beach, the forest, the desert, or Antarctica? Brave Little Company invites kids of all abilities and their families to join “Wish You Were Here” at Burnett Bayland Community Center. Each week, participants will use their imaginations and their senses of sight, smell, sound, and sensation to go on a sensory field trip – without leaving the classroom! Brave Little Company presents these events in partnership with Harris County Precinct 4.
The Silos at Sawyer Yards, Gallery 200 · 1502 Sawyer Street, Suite 224, Houston, TX 77007
ThinkINK 2026: PrintHouston’s Annual Members’ Exhibition, curated by Jordan Bolduc and Jailyne España, features original printmaking techniques: lithography, woodcut, linoleum cut, etching, drypoint, metal engraving, and screenprint. Since 2009 PrintHouston has grown into an art organization representing a growing global community of printmakers and print supporters. Featured Artists: Andis Applewhite, Pat Barton, Linda Behar, Hannah Bender, Janet Best Badger, Randy Clark, Lucinda Cobley, Jonas Criscoe, Pat Doran Porcynaluk, Jessica Farris, Orna Feinstein, Melisa Gerecci, Kevin Haas, William H. Hays, Yuji Hiratsuka, Vivian Hordes, Cathie Kayser, Hank Mattson, Eileen McClellan, Susu Meyer, Sharon Navage, Peter Nickel, Donna E Perkins, Kathleen B Pittman, Charlotte Seifert, Nomi Silverman, Dorothea Van Camp Opening Reception September 26, 2026 6pm-8pm
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church · 5501 Main Street, Houston, TX 77004
Gordon Education is excited to announce its 2026 Summer Film Camps, offering four immersive programs for young creatives aged 9 to 17. Each filmmaking camp focuses on a different genre: Historical, Changemakers, Documentary, and Narrative Fiction, allowing aspiring filmmakers to explore the art of cinema from multiple perspectives while developing their own voice. Narrative Fiction Filmmaking Camp | Ages 9 – 13 | 9 am – 3 pm July 13-17 at St. Paul’s School Young storytellers unleash their wildest creative visions in this story-driven filmmaking camp. Whether their movie is set in outer space or under the sea, campers have full artistic license to bring their unique ideas to the screen. Together, they will write, film, direct, and act in an original production, using the “Hero’s Journey” as a roadmap to learn the essentials of storytelling. Camp Leaders for the Time-Traveling Historical Camp are Dan Gordon and Bri Guerrero. Dan Gordon leads the Changemakers and Documentary Camps, and Bri Guerrero leads the Narrative Fiction Camp. Space is limited, and scholarships are available.
2026 Greater Houston Arts Forum + Texans for the Arts Summit & Awards
Hobby Center for the Performing Arts · 800 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002
The Greater Houston Arts Forum and the TFA Summit & Awards are two distinct events combined into a single day at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts — Houston’s regional arts forum joined with TFA’s biennial statewide Summit and Advocacy Awards Show. The foundation of the arts and culture sector is built through connection, collaboration, and shared vision—and we invite you to be part of the conversation. Bridging civic leadership and creative excellence, this one-time collaborative convening is designed to build meaningful connections and explore opportunities to advance our collective impact. With attendees traveling from across the state, capacity is expected to fill quickly. Secure your seat today and be part of the conversations cultivating a thriving arts community. WHY ATTEND? Expand Your Network – Connect with peers and like-minded professionals from across the region AND across the state. Break Out of Your Silo – Engage with individuals and organizations working in different disciplines and communities. Spark New Collaborations – Exchange ideas, discover partnership opportunities, and explore innovative approaches to shared challenges. Build and Sustain Community – Foster meaningful relationships that strengthen our arts and culture landscape for years to come. Whether you’re creating, leading, or advocating for the arts, this collaborative convening offers a unique opportunity to learn from one another, explore strategies that strengthen our position, and help shape the future of the creative sector.
2026 Greater Houston Arts Forum + Texans for the Arts Summit and Awards
Hobby Center for the Performing Arts · 800 Bagby Street, Houston, TX 77002
Join us on October 12, 2026 for the 2026 Greater Houston Arts Forum + Texans for the Arts Summit and Awards at the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston. This convening will bring together artists, cultural workers, nonprofit leaders, funders, educators, and policymakers to gain a deeper understanding of how the arts ecosystem operates. Through interactive sessions and shared learning, participants will explore challenges, exchange ideas, build relationships, and celebrate our champions from across the state.
Beyond the Hedges: Historias de Latinidad at Rice University
Julia Ideson Building · 550 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002
Rice University is home to a campus bounded by historic hedges but deeply interconnected with the dynamic metropolis of Houston, one of the most diverse and culturally expansive global cities in the world. While the university was originally chartered exclusively for Houston’s white inhabitants, trailblazing Latines defied those boundaries from the beginning. They walked through the Sallyport, refusing to be kept out. Pieced together from photos, letters, and diaries discovered in the archives of the Woodson Research Center and the Houston Public Library Special Collections, and from oral histories of the students, staff, and faculty who shaped both Rice and the city, this exhibit proves that from the moment ground broke in 1910, Latine individuals have helped shape Rice’s legacy. Today, nearly 13.5% of Rice University’s undergraduate students and more than 44% of Houston’s residents are of Latin American descent. Beyond the Hedges: Historias de Latinidad at Rice University honors this community, which has, for over a century, dedicated their brilliance, service, resilience, and creativity to the campus and the city.
Houston Public Library – Central (Jesse H. Jones) · 500 McKinney, Houston, TX 77002
The Houston Public Library invites you to experience nearly a century of civil rights resilience in an exhibit chronicling the League of United Latin American Citizens’ (LULAC) pursuit of justice. Since 1929, LULAC has dismantled systemic barriers through landmark victories. Explore the 1954 Hernandez v. Texas U.S. Supreme Court triumph, President Kennedy’s 1963 Houston visit, and the 1957 “Little School of the 400″—championed by LULAC National President Felix Tijerina and inspired by 17-year-old high school student Isabel Verver in Ganado, Texas. Spanning mid-century milestones to ongoing fights for immigration reform, we honor 98 years of advocacy under the motto, “All for One and One for All.” This exhibit was organized by LEAP (Latino Educational Archival Programs).
Houston Public Library – Central (Jesse H. Jones) · 500 McKinney, Houston, TX 77002
In the 1950s, Mexican American children in Texas entered schools shaped by segregation and discrimination, where language barriers added to an already unequal educational system. The Little School of the 400 tells the story of an innovative preschool program that used conversation, play, and 400 essential English words to prepare Spanish-speaking children for school. High school student Isabel Gonzales (Verver) helped bring this new approach to life as a teacher in the program. What began in one South Texas classroom grew into a statewide educational movement and helped lay important groundwork for the future of bilingual education in Texas.
The Health Museum’s The Fatherhood Effect Healing Arts Exhibition
The Health Museum · 1515 Hermann Drive, Houston, TX 77004
The Health Museum, an interactive health science museum located in the heart of the Houston Museum District, will debut their newest exhibition The Fatherhood Effect as part of the Healing Arts Program at a preview party on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. Six awards will be presented during the reception at 7 p.m. The exhibition will open to the public on Saturday, August 15, 2026, and will remain on display at The Health Museum until January 27, 2027. Through an open call for art, The Health Museum received powerful submissions of visual art that positioned fatherhood as a public health approach to healthier living. By elevating local stories and lived experiences, the exhibition invited reflection on how fatherhood has evolved over the past three decades—and how meaningful, engaged fatherhood contributes to healthier children, stronger families, and more connected communities. Through the arts and public health perspective, The Fatherhood Effect highlights fathers as present, nurturing, and deeply involved in caregiving. The exhibition challenges outdated stereotypes that define fathers solely as providers, and instead emphasizes care, emotional connection, and shared responsibility as essential elements of fatherhood. The artwork selection was juried by community leaders and fathers including Houston City Council Member District I Joaquin Martinez, Director of Harris County Boards and Commissions Daniel Santamaria, Director of Community Engagement for the Alzheimer’s Association Jorge Olvera, Founder and CEO of The Color of Coffee Collective Keith Hawkins, and Founder and Director of CoolxDad Kevin Barnett. Tickets for the exhibit preview reception on August 14, 2026, are available at 3586.blackbaudhosting.com/3586/Fatherhood-Effect-Preview-Reception and are $10 for Museum members and $20 for non-members. All tickets include live music, light bites, beverages, and free parking in the Museum’s surface lot. Doors open at 6pm and the awards will be announced at 7pm. The Healing Arts Program was launched in 2024 with a gallery opening for “Healing Hands: A Collection of Caregiver Expressions on Mental Wellness” and was created to explore the intersections of art, medicine, and culture, and provide the community with an outlet for processing experiences relating to physical and mental health. Through workshops, exhibitions, and community engagement, the program has increased the museum’s capacity for connection and healing in the Houston community. The Healing Arts Program focuses on connection, creativity, critical thinking, and compassionate dialogue, through a lens that healthier communities can be built through collaboration between individuals, educators, artists, and healthcare professionals.
Time to Get Ready: Fotografía Social | Civil Rights Photography of Maria Varela
The African American Library at the Gregory School · 1300 Victor St., Houston, TX 77019
Inspired by social justice activism in her south side Chicago Catholic high school, Maria Varela (b. 1940) accepted an invitation in 1963 to join the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), a civil rights organization working in the U.S. south. She helped develop a voter literacy program and by 1965 was the only female staff photographer for SNCC. In 1968 the experienced civil rights activist accepted an invitation from Reies Lopez Tijerina to join the Land Grant Movement in New Mexico. When members of the movement requested help in restoring ancestral lands and cultural practices, she supported them in establishing co-ops and non-for-profits to help improve their lives. “The images in this exhibition reflect the evolution of resistance movements over nearly three decades, from demonstrations to political organizing to establishing alternative institutions, which would model what we would do ‘if we were in charge.’” — Maria Varela About the Photographer Maria Varela (American, b. 1940) was a staff member of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) from 1963-1967 working primarily in Alabama and Mississippi. Varela created filmstrips and photo books utilized by SNCC and local community organizers for various organizing campaigns. As a SNCC staffer, she also photographed marches, as the presence of cameras often protected marchers from violence. In 1968, she moved to New Mexico at the invitation of leaders of the Hispano land rights movements. She also continued her photography documenting the 1968 Poor People Campaign, the first Chicano Youth Conference, the 1960s and 1970s Chicago movement, and the lifestyles of Nuevo Mexicano villages. For 40 years Maria organized rural communities in New Mexico and the Southwest to create culturally sustainable economic enterprises to help reduce poverty and loss of ancestral lands. In 1990, she was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship for this work. For the last six decades, Maria’s work has been featured in books, magazines, TV media, and photo exhibitions. Her photographs can be found in the collections of the National Museum of African American Art, National Museum of Mexican Art, and the National Gallery of Art. This exhibition was organized by the National Museum of Mexican Art, Chicago, IL. Sponsored by Chicago Park District, Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, Illinois Arts Council Agency.
Home Sweet Home: Greater Houston Subdivisions and Neighborhoods
Julia Ideson Building · 550 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002
In 1836, brothers Augustus Chapman and John Kirby Allen founded the town of Houston at the confluence of Buffalo Bayou and White Oak Bayou. Shortly after, they advertised the area in the Telegraph and Texas Register as “handsome and beautifully elevated,” where settlers could enjoy “the sea breeze in all its freshness.” The Allen Brothers’ descriptions may have been misleading, bu they were effective for attracting settlers and immigrants with the promise of a fresh start, cheap land, and economic opportunities. Houston has steadily grown from a fledgling town in the Republic of Texas into the fourth-largest metropolis in the United States. Home Sweet Home explores the creation of a selection of Greater Houston subdivisions, neighborhoods, and cities by featuring historical maps, brochures, postcards, and photographs.
Pedalisa Art Houston Sugarland Studio · 2309 Williams Trace Blvd, Sugar Land, TX 77478
Discover the colorful art of Turkish mosaic lamp making at Pedalisa Art’s Sugar Land studio in the Houston area! During this fun, beginner-friendly workshop, you’ll choose your colors and patterns, then decorate your own lamp with vibrant glass tiles and beads. Our friendly instructors will guide you step by step, so no previous art experience is needed. Your workshop includes: • All mosaic materials and tools • Step-by-step guidance • Your selected lamp to create and take home • Turkish tea, baklava, and Turkish delight • Approximately 2–2.5 hours of creative fun After the workshop, you’ll take your handmade lamp home and receive simple instructions for completing the final grouting step. This unique Houston-area experience is perfect for date nights, birthdays, family outings, girls’ nights, team-building events, and anyone looking for a memorable creative activity. Ages 7 and up. Advance booking is recommended, as seating is limited. Come relax, get creative, and leave with a beautiful Turkish mosaic lamp made by you. Reserve your seat today!
DiverseWorks – at MATCH Houston · 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002
Join DiverseWorks for the opening of Overflow Radio: Šakotayišol Nunuš Constellation on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 5-9 PM. Developed in collaboration with Emily Johnson / Catalyst and local Indigenous and Native Heritage artists, the exhibition and related programming continue through October 24 at the DiverseWorks Gallery @ MATCH, 3400 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002. The project includes talks, skill-shares, listening sessions, gatherings, an exhibition, and performances, featuring exhibiting artists Aveda Adara, Chiara “Sunshine” Beaumont, Christie “Chichi” Chafoya, Karen Navarro, Monica Villarreal, and Aryn Ward, with additional participating artists and community partners. In conjunction with Emily Johnson / Catalyst’s world premiere of Overflow Radio in Mni Sóta Makoce (Minneapolis), we will gather in person in Šakotayišol Nunuš or “Bear Creek Town” (Houston) to listen to twelve First Nations and Indigenous authors, poets, and scholars live-broadcasting from their home territories and First Nations over 24 non-consecutive hours from October 9–12. All programs are free and open to the public, but some require tickets and advance registration. Visit diverseworks.org for more information. OVERFLOW RADIO: Šakotayišol Nunuš Constellation October 3-24, 2026 DiverseWorks Gallery @ MATCH Saturday, October 3, 5 – 9 PM 5 PM Good Medicine Indigenous Music Festival 7 PM Opening Reception Friday, October 9 – Monday, October 12, 11:30 AM – 6 PM (first transmissions start at 12 PM each day) Listening Sessions, Skill Shares and Panel Discussions Friday, October 9, 6 PM Performance: Maize by ACT II Saturday, October 17, 6 PM Diverse Discourse Lecture w/Mary V. Bordeaux, Ed.D., Co-Founder & Co-Director, Racing Magpie Thursdays – Saturdays, 12 – 6 PM Exhibition Hours
Houston Public Library – Central (Jesse H. Jones) · 500 McKinney, Houston, TX 77002
Fashion Fusion X: Inspired by Frida Kahlo features garments from the tenth anniversary of Fashion Fusion, an annual competition and runway show presented by the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), and the award-winning Fashion Design program at Houston City College (HCC). This year, HCC students and alumni designed original outfits inspired by the MFAH’s recent exhibition, Frida: The Making of an Icon, which was devoted to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo’s life and legacy. The garments created by HCC’s emerging designers were entered into one of four representative categories: Regenerate, Reimagine, Reengineer, or Reveal. This community tour showcases the winning outfits from the competition. Student Winners Reimagine: Darrion Nguyen – Blossoms in Maroon Regenerate: Remi Erinle – Beauty Around the World Reengineer: Tanya Roche – Hummingbird Alumni Winners Reimagine: Tatyana Miller – El Cantor Regenerate: Ebonie Sophus – The Blooming Confluence Reengineer: Kim Lai – Appearances Reveal: Estefania Espindola – Resiliences Audience Choice Winner Estefania Espindola – Proudly Tehuano
Russian Cultural Center “Our Texas” · 2337 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005
The Cultural Center “Our Texas” will host Havana: Where the Past Meets the Future, a collaborative exhibition featuring Cuban-American artist Timoteo Domínguez Fuentes and Russian-American photographer Vladimir Frumin. This visual dialogue brings together painting and photography to explore themes of identity, memory, and resilience. Domínguez Fuentes’ paintings examine migration, cultural identity, spirituality, and social resilience through vibrant, emotionally charged figurative compositions. His work merges traditional artistic language with contemporary conceptual approaches, reflecting on collective memory and the enduring strength of communities facing displacement and change. His work has been exhibited at venues including the YMCA and World Refugee Houston, and his murals can be found in hotels, restaurants, and schools across Houston, Cancún, and Havana. In Cuba, he was recognized as a winner of the “Panchito Simón” Municipal Plastic Arts Competition. Vladimir Frumin’s photography complements these themes through stark, contemplative images of neglected urban spaces—such as deserted parks and abandoned buildings—as well as portraits of isolated individuals. His work captures the quiet dignity of those living on the margins of society. His photography has received international recognition, including the Sony World Photography Awards for Conceptual Art (2016) and Portraits (2023). His work was exhibited at Somerset House in London. In 2016, Frumin received the Carol Crow Fellowship Award at the Houston Center for Photography for the documentary “Everybody’s 5th Ward,” as well as Black & White Magazine’s Excellence Award (2011) and Spotlight Award (2014). Together, the artists create a compelling narrative of shared human experience, bridging cultural and geographic divides through empathy and visual storytelling. The exhibition is free and open to the public. Gallery Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Lawndale Art Center · 4912 Main St., Houston, TX 77002
THEY, WHO SOUND on Monday, October 12 will feature: Juan Garcia/Mann-Wen Lo + ?/? Juan Garcia (Houston) – double bass Mann-Wen Lo (Houston) – violin ? (Houston) – ? ? (Houston) – ? They, Who Sound is funded in part by the City of Houston Through Houston Arts Alliance and The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts They, Who Sound is a weekly series for experimental sound-making, improvised music, noises, the sounding of art, and the performance of art. They, Who Sound is presented by Nameless Sound and Lawndale Art Center. They, Who Sound happens every Monday at Lawndale from 7:30 to 9:30pm. (Doors open at 7pm.)