News
You always miss the shots you don't take.
Impacting Others
17 animations down, 13 to go. I'm way ahead of schedule and most of my hair seems to still be in tact. Praise Jesus. Sometimes, I get so entangled in my creativity that I forget to eat. My tummy was cussin' me out HEAVILY, that's when I discovered my fridge was sparse, y'all. I had to take a brief pause from hermit-mode and venture out amongst the living to stock up. Fun times.
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This week, I was messaging back and forth with the buyer of my "Dipped Strawberries" piece. By the end of our chat, I was nearly in tears. R A R E L Y do I catch the vapors, y'all. The buyer truly appreciated my artistic vision and expressed interest in collecting more of my works. It's conversations like these that keep me motivated to continue to live my truth out loud and share my passions. No words can describe how that makes an artist feel when a piece you've created has such an impact on someone that they want to further invest in you. As I'm working on these animations, I'm pondering on the impact my designs may have on the patrons... and of course, the inspiring words of my new friend are ringing front and center.
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Current Mood
(I can't STAND the first week of the month)
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Hermit-mode is officially activated, y'all. Goodbye sun. Goodbye kickball at the park. I've got to hunker down and learn this new software. I have to animate 30 of my designs for a really unique show that's coming up. If I have ANY hair left by the deadline, it'll be a miracle. I'm a Photoshop junkie not an animator. Wish me luck, y'all.
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Oh, and y'all have a mighty blessed rest of the week.
In My Own Words
I wasn't even going to post this on my "art-related" site, but I'm beyond tired of being sick and tired. If you wear your feelings on your sleeves, exit this reading. I'm trying to maintain a level head in light of these distressing events, but I'm not about to sugarcoat what I've got to say.
First off, my thoughts are with those who perished in the 6th St. mass shooting and to their loved ones. I'm sending prayers up for a full and quick recovery to the survivors. That hit way too close to home. This is exactly why I stopped patronizing downtown after sundown. The Austin of the early 2000s no longer exists.
Lastly, I'm sending prayers up for our troops that are fighting an unnecessary conflict in the middle east. I can't believe we're doing this under false pretenses AGAIN. Whatever goes beyond infuriation is how I'm feeling right now. Service members have already died, needlessly. And it's ALWAYS the offspring of the working-class that are sent to fight and pay the ultimate price. I truly despise the do-nothing Republicans in Congress that refuse to reel in the draft-dodging con man. They hold the majority yet have ceded their powers to the devil's disciples. Hell is not hot enough for these beasts.
I'm an Airman, forever and always. My oath did not cease when I left the military. That said, should I be forced to "suit up" again, I will NOT fight on behalf of our current clown posse that's being led by a self-professed "bastion of peace". I will, instead, join forces with other pissed off veterans (that have common sense... I see y'all out there) and we will fight AGAINST them, together. That's what true patriotism is. Fighting tyrants foreign AND domestic.
In closing, to any site visitors who may be offended by this post... I don't give 1/4 of a f*ck. I said what I said. I'm not here to pacify you. I'll even hand you my whole ass to kiss on your way out.
25 Jan - 1 May 2026
Palette and Palate (Extended)
Avery Building, TSU -- Round Rock
(Round Rock, TX)
To anyone still wanting to view this exhibition, the curators
have extended the show until 1 May.
Know Your Worth
(Pfftthahahaha!! I can't help myself y'all, I have to post this.)
What's good, y'all? I'm pretty stoked. Accomplished my mission for the day. Plus, my girl bestie reminded me of how very proud she is of me, so that really set the tone. But y'all... I can't take much more of this summer weather in February. My allergies are TRIPPED OUT. Sneezed so much, nearly lost my grip and fell off my dragon.
So, let's get into a mini lecture about folks who like to shortchange artists, shall we? This meme is a prime example of "Welp, you get what you pay for." One of my biggest peeves about being an artist: Clients who try to "negotiate" your set prices. Run along, scamps! Listen, I can't speak for other creatives, but I'm not trying to be a LITERAL starving artist. Do not discount yourselves or underestimate your value. Your time is money. PeriodT. Pay yourselves a livable wage, especially if creating art is your only means of income. Remember to take into account MATERIALS USED and TIME SPENT when pricing your artwork. If you have significant name recognition, adjust accordingly. Don't let anyone shame you into thinking your prices are too high. Know your worth, babes!
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​“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” — Edgar Degas
Rock Ya Vote
Grey skies this morning, windy as f*ck, hair still wet, dressed in my finest bum-chic attire... I made it to the polls! And like a true Texan, treated myself to some Whataburger afterwards. Woot woot!
Alright Texans, y'all have an assignment. It's officially the first day of early voting. Your assignment is to get out and rock ya vote! And please... let's vote like we have some common damn sense this time. We can't HAVE better if we don't CHOOSE better. C'mon, give me a reason to proclaim "The dog days are over!" (cue Florence & the Machine). Folks' livelihoods are literally at stake, including your own, whether you believe it or not. Please think smart and exercise compassion when y'all cast your votes.
To the one I call "Sunshine", I dedicate "Ain't No Stoppin' Sunshine" by Yoli. I see you. My spirit is with you.
Let's make some GOOD trouble, Texas!
*Early voting runs from 17 - 27 Feb and 3 March is the official election day for the party primary*
Award Winner!
Ayyyoooooo!! What's poppin', y'all? The weather has been exceptionally delicious this past week... very summer-like. I'm a snow bunny at heart, but I'm somewhat appreciating these mild temps. Not so much the allergies that accompany it, though. Pollen count is higher than the electric bill. I really feel AND LOOK like buttmunch. But hey, I still managed to do SOMETHING productive... I ran one of my babies thru the car wash. The birds in my tree have no shame or self-respect whatsoever.
Happy to report that I was able to drag myself to the Palette and Palate Artists' Reception, sniffles and all. This is the first time my food-themed art has been exhibited. I wasn't aware that this exhibition was also an awards competition. Y'all, when I say God is good...*church stomp*. One of my babies won 2nd place AND found a new home. Much love to the buyer. *I'm not crying, it's the allergies, I swear*. Thank you to the juror who told me that my submissions blew her away. She appreciated that my art was truly unique and not "boring" as she put it. So, to all the artists out there who have a quirky, out-of-the-box artistic style, and you believe no one will ever show interest and take you seriously as an artist... keep doin' what you're doin'! Don't be afraid to be different. Be unapologetically YOU!! Being "trendy" doesn't always equate to being successful. I dedicate "Raise Your Glass" by Pink to all the underdog artists.
While at the reception, I met and chatted with the President of the Pflugerville Arts Council. When I say my knees wanted to buckle when she uttered the words, "Do you have enough art for a one-woman show?" I died and resurrected right there in the gallery. Y'all, last week when I was hangin' with my guy bestie, he prophesized that 2026 was gonna be OUR year (he's an artist too). That man ain't never lied. He truly is the Clyde to my Bonnie when it comes to having my back... without all the bad stuff, of course.
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Here's a Tali tidbit: My favourite song is "One Moment in Time" by Whitney. "I've laid the plans, now lay the chance here in my hands." As long as I keep putting forth the effort and "laying the plans", I know God will continue working behind-the-scenes to help me achieve my goals. I'm super stoked at what the near future may hold and I'm forever grateful to those of you who support the arts. Without y'all, and God, I wouldn't be where I'm at in my art journey. Thank you ever so much.
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Palette and Palate runs thru 1 March for anyone interested in attending the exhibit. All sold pieces remain on display thru the entirety of the show as well.
25 Jan - 1 Mar 2026
Palette and Palate
Avery Building, TSU -- Round Rock
(Round Rock, TX)
Alright y'all, the 2026 exhibition season has officially kicked off. I'm weaning myself back onto the scene after taking a year off. Many thanks to Round Rock Arts for putting on this delicious show. I'm super excited to have a few pieces on display. I also love the openness of this particular building. I've attended previous shows at this location, but this is my first time exhibiting at this space. *happy dance*
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I'm not certain, however, that I'll be able to attend the Artists' Reception because ya girl got summoned for jury duty. *not so happy dance*
I'll do my absolute best to pop in at some point during the exhibit to show support for all the artists. I'm eager to experience all the yummy creativeness.
Sneak Peek
Lawd have mercy... I'm strugglin' a bit this week, y'all. Yesterday was definitely a "Manic Monday". I'm being b*tch-slapped by cedar fever AND I'm going thru Peanut M&Ms withdrawal (forgot to replenish while at the store). I'm having flashbacks to last week when I still had 1/2 a party bag full... (sigh) good times. I'll be alright though. I'm doped up (and fighting sleep) on various allergy meds and ya girl's got some Cheezits on emergency standby... num nums (#SnackQueen).
As promised, here's the sneak peek of my latest drawing. It's a '75 VW Bus and took just under 70 hours to complete. The background (not pictured) consists of a vintage fuel pump and Route 66 road signs. There's also a traffic cone in the bottom right foreground. Doing a vintage automotive series was pitched to me by another artist. This is why I adore hanging out with fellow creatives, we bounce ideas off one another. I haven't decided whether to produce prints of these drawings yet. The upfront costs of investing in a 36" scanner and ordering test prints are already making my head spin. Maybe I'll just leave them as OOAKs... or maybe I'll play it by ear.
End of Year Message
What's good, y'all? I hope the holidays are treating you extremely well. Anyone else still mowing their grass in DECEMBER or is it just me and my neighbours? Climate change royally sucks. Anyhow. I'm clockin' some serious hours with my latest piece (I'll drop a sneak peek soon). I have, however, managed to emerge from hermit-mode and dwell amongst the living for the festivities. I reflect back on this year and realize that I'm so very blessed to have such a superb group of individuals that somehow look beyond my weirdness and see the diamond in the rough. It means more to me than y'all will ever know when I receive messages saying, "I was just thinking about you... I saw your artwork," or 1:00 am texts asking, "You sleep?" knowing dog gone well I'm wide awake and we're about to have a 2 hour phone conversation. Y'all remind me that I do matter in this crazy, dysfunctional, rotating sphere we call Earth... and for that I thank you. Thank y'all for making time for me, and for loving and appreciating me just as I am. Kisses all 'round.
Just a message of kindness: I recognize that 2025 was a struggle year for so many people (mentally, financially, etc...) and, as we enter a new year, situations will be even tougher for many more. Folks are REALLY going thru it, y'all. Never underestimate the power of a "hello", "thank you", or "just checkin' on ya". Even holding a door open for someone. A simple, kind gesture could really make a world of difference to somebody who's had a raggedy day or who may feel like they don't matter. As Maya Angelou said, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will NEVER forget how you made them feel." So, be mindful of how you treat others. And remember... you get what you give. Besides, you may be encountering an earth angel in disguise and don't even realize it. With that said, 2026... LET'S DO IT!!
13 Dec 2025
Mainly Art Pop-Up (10am - 3pm)
Prete Plaza
(Round Rock, TX)
This is the final pop-up show of the year and the last chance to snag awesome artworks from some incredibly talented, local artists just in time for the holidays.
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As always, thank y'all for supporting independent artists and allowing us to share our creativity with you all year round. Much love and Happy Holidays!
"Message In A Bottle"
Have y'all seen the Pixar movie "Up"? Y'all remember Dug the dog with the vocal box and anytime he got distracted he'd say "Squirrel!!" Yeah, soooo ya girl apparently had some "Squirrel" moments recently. When I "think" I'm done with a design, I'll stash it away for a few days and won't look at it. I'll preview the piece days later with fresh eyes to make sure I'm satisfied.
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So... I finished the WIP almost 2 weeks ago and totally forgot to post it. I've been crazy distracted from all angles these past couple weeks. I call this one "Message In A Bottle". Photos do NOT do this piece justice whatsoever. Y'all... the detail up close in person is craaaazy! I invested just over 46 hours in it. I still use pointillism for shading as seen in the closeup. This is a test drawing to make sure I still have "it" in me to do traditional art. Yes, I've still got "it". I couldn't locate my portable easel for proper display, so please excuse the crooked, poorly lit photos.
Happy Veterans Day
Just wanna give a shout out to all my fellow vets! Happy Veterans Day!! Please stay safe and have a good time as y'all enjoy this year's festivities. I'm hittin' up a train ride and y'all know I'm all about the free food. Much love to you all and thank you for your service!
WIP
Recently, I was asked if I'd ever create anymore of my black and white ink drawings (the ones I launched my art career with). After much thought, I figured... sure, why not? What's different about this new batch is that they're VERY LARGE compared to the original ones... almost 36" tall.
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Working on a canvas THIS size takes much longer with those tiny Micron tips. I'm 22 hours deep and barely halfway done. *slams head on table*
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Here's a WIP of the one I'm currently working on.
20 Nov 2025
Save the Date
Beaujolais Nights
(Round Rock, TX)
Ayoooo! It's almost that time again. Beaujolais Nights is just around the corner. Last year was incredible and I've been informed that THIS year, we're expecting around 3x the amount of patrons. I've also been told that the new 5,000 sq. ft City Arts Center gallery will be opening this night as well! Y'all know I'm super excited about this. I can't wait to exhibit in the new space.
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(photos taken by me, Beaujolais Nights 2024)
3 - 5 Oct 2025
Round Rock Arts Fest
Centennial Plaza
(Round Rock, TX)
It's almost time for Arts Fest y'all!! This is a fun gathering of local / regional artists, musicians, and food vendors. Last year was a blast, but I'm not gonna lie... it was hot as sin outside. If you plan on attending this event, please take heed to stay hydrated since it will probably be another scorcher this year too. I'll be poppin' in on one of those days to mingle and support my fellow artists... plus I like to discover new art for my art wall.
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Visit the Round Rock Arts Fest website for Festival hours.
20th Anniversary
The end of August is always a somber time for me. I just want to take this moment to remember those lost during Hurricane Katrina, those who survived, and those who suffered needlessly afterwards in New Orleans. Hard to believe it's been 20 years already.
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Something I rarely discuss is that I had a front row seat to Katrina. I was stationed at Keesler AFB, in Biloxi, MS, and assigned to the Shelter Team. That meant I was not allowed to evacuate in the event of a natural disaster. Our job was to designate, in this instance, the base hospital as a shelter and keep watch of other people, military and civilian, who weren't able to evacuate for whatever reason.
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I won't detail the events that occurred within the hospital during landfall. Sadly, one individual passed away. After 4 days, without power no less, we safely emerged to assess the damage outside. The smell of death permeated the air. I tried to convince myself the smell was from local wildlife that had perished... but I knew better.
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I resided off-base in Gulfport and, unfortunately, like countless others, I too was left homeless. This truly was a frightening, yet EXTREMELY humbling experience. I've learned to appreciate the little things in life and to never take people for granted because it can all be taken away in an instant.
Now Available
New yummies now available in the shop, check em' out!
Farewell
My Buggin' murals are on their final leg of a year long journey throughout downtown Round Rock. They're currently located at the Round Rock Transit Center. They've had an incredible run and were shown so much love.
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I've enjoyed seeing photos of y'all interacting with them. Your delight is absolutely priceless. Thank you for creating your own memories. I've also loved hearing about your personal connections to the cities featured in the designs. Never stop reminiscing.
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Many thanks to the patrons for appreciating my art and supporting my passion. An even bigger thank you to the City of Round Rock Arts and Culture Dept. for inviting me to share my artwork and beautify our community one piece at a time.
Music on Main
My babies showcased so beautifully as the backdrop for the 2025 Music on Main concert series. *happy tears*
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(photo courtesy of photographer Henry Huey for the Austin American-Statesman)
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Art Theft Warning
Hey y'all. I just want to put out this warning about scammers and art thieves. I'm always getting hit up by scammers. Recently, however, I've noticed an overwhelming amount of questionable traffic on my site from one particular "unique visitor" in just a matter of days... (I won't mention their location, but know you're on my radar). 100+ visits over 3 days is obscene and highly suspect.
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The artworks listed on my website are ONLY sold on THIS website, occasional gallery exhibitions, and brick-and-mortar shops that I've listed. I do not sell these designs on social media or any other websites, especially PODs. I also do not sell my art as NFTs nor do I give permission to do so.
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If anyone happens to see any of my art being sold elsewhere, it's from an unauthorized, fraudulent seller. Feel free to notify me. My copyright attorney is on standby as this is not the first "art theft rodeo" I've dealt with. Thank y'all ever so kindly.
New year. New art.
New illustrations will be making their way into the shop this year. I've been on an Environmental Concept "high" lately, so some designs will focus on random, imagined spaces. Also in the mix will be character/film-related art... just because.
I'll sporadically post these designs in the shop throughout the year. As always, I'm truly grateful for your support for independent artists.
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Please note: I'm now only shipping within the U.S.
3 Dec 2024 - 4 Jan 2025
Things With Wheels
The City Arts Center
(Round Rock, TX)
This year's holiday exhibition will be super cool. Not only will there be incredible artworks to experience, but also model trains! My piece "Summertime Sadness" (Ver. 1) will be on display.
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Also, a heartfelt thank you to everyone that attended Beaujolais Nights this year and popped into the gallery. It was such a pleasure meeting and chatting with y'all. I greatly appreciate all the kind words and support. I really felt the love :)
16 Oct - 22 Nov 2024
Inside Out
The City Arts Center
(Round Rock, TX)
The Inside / Out exhibition opens this week! I'll have several artworks on display, including my supersized Buggin' murals. My nostalgic candy designs will also be making their gallery debut. It's like trick-or-treating with your eyes!
Sep - Dec 2024
Merry's Mud Pottery House
(Downtown, Round Rock, TX)
From now till the end of the year, several of my limited editions will be available at Merry's Mud Pottery House, located in downtown Round Rock. Just in time for the holidays!
Drop in to see an eclectic collection of art, crafts, and exquisite pottery made by Merry herself! Be sure to treat yourself to her homemade Chocolate Chip pie as well... soooo tasty!
8 Oct - 3 Nov 2024
Los Vivos y Los Muertos:
A celebration of Hispanic & Latino culture juried exhibition
The Center for the Arts & Sciences
(Clute, TX)
I'm excited to be participating in this awesome exhibition again this year. My "Altar (Coloured)" piece will be on display.
Dropping Soon
Boba
My delicious, vibrant Boba designs are coming to the shop soon. They'll be available as pink and yellow versions, 11"x14" limited edition prints.
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NOTE:
The #1 print of Boba (Pink) is currently available at Merry's Mud Pottery House thru the end of the year.
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The #1 print of Boba (Yellow) is slated for the Inside/Out exhibition in October, so it won't be available until the end of November.
Sneak Peek
Pop Art Can Series
I had heaps of fun creating my Limited Edition Pop Art Can Series. I photographed a variety of canned foods and transformed them into eye-catching pop art.
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Now Available
Dipped Strawberries Sticker Sheet
Check out my yummy, gourmet chocolate-dipped strawberries in the Sticker shop!
Now on Display!
Buggin' Series
Prete Plaza
(Downtown, Round Rock, TX)
I'm so very excited to present SUPERSIZED versions of my Buggin' Series to all patrons of downtown Round Rock!
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Click on the image to see the video!
A very special thank you to the City of Round Rock Arts and Culture department for inviting me to participate in the Public Arts & Murals program. I'm truly honored.
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My Bugs will be on display thru Summer 2025, so if you're in the area, or planning to be in the near future, go check 'em out at Prete Plaza!
New Shops Now Open!
Phone Wallpapers
Digital Downloads
My new shops featuring phone wallpaper downloads are complete! Only certain designs will make the cut due to proper placement and size constraints. I've also reintroduced much of my surface art.
Check them out here: www.Payhip.com/TaliRachelleArt
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Now Available
Special Edition Beauties
Technical versions
My special edition, tech-style beauties are now in the shop! Each one is available as an OOAK only.
Now Available
OOAKs and Colourways
One-of-a-Kind Collection
The first batch of OOAKs is now available in the shop. Only one print of each design will ever be for sale. Once they're gone, THEY'RE GONE :)
Coming in May
Dreamcatchers
Limited Edition Collection
With 4 versions, limited to 10 prints each, my "Dreamcatchers" collection will be available in May.
29 Feb - 6 Apr 2024
African-American Art Exhibition
Gallery B612
(Seattle, WA)
Three OOAKs from my unreleased "Pick Series" will be debuting in this exhibit.
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Meet the artists, see a fashion show, shop vendor booths, and more during the opening reception!
10 Feb - 16 Mar 2024
What the Heck?! Exhibition
Tall Grass Gallery
(Park Forest, IL)
The works in this show create, illustrate, or portray the concepts of Anachronisms, Juxtapositions, or Implausible pairings. They surprise us, bewilder us, and amuse us with strange combinations or relationships of time, space, use, and jarring shifts of our usual perceptions and experiences. Images on view will be bizarre, whimsical, fantastic, and inspire questions like “what is going on here?”, “how can that be?”, and “what if that were true?” Twenty-six artists will share drawings, paintings, prints, photo and digital pieces, and 3-dimensional works.
Jan 2024
Now Available!
Downtowner Gallery
(Round Rock, TX)
Select limited editions are now available at Downtowner Gallery.
Coming Soon!
I will be releasing a variety of OOAKs and colourways in 2024.
30 Nov 2023 - 4 Jan 2024
Playful Nostalgia Exhibition
Downtowner Gallery
(Round Rock, TX)
The annual Holiday mART show at Downtowner Gallery. I'll have several designs on display for this exhibition.
Nov 2023
Artmagazineium
Issue: 33
I'm honored to have been chosen for an 8-page spread in this international art publication.
16 Oct - 30 Nov 2023
AVAFEST 2023: Heroic Reflections
Jester Annex Gallery
(Round Rock, TX)
AVAFEST is a non-profit initiative dedicated to supporting veterans through the healing power of the arts. Addressing the challenges veterans face, like PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, AVAFEST unites them with communities via diverse artistic mediums, from visual arts to dance and music. Beyond celebration, the festival promotes mental well-being, fostering connectivity, tolerance, and love, aiming to alleviate emotional struggles within the veteran community.
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8 Oct - 3 Nov 2023
Los Vivos y Los Muertos:
A celebration of Hispanic & Latino culture juried exhibition
The Center for the Arts & Sciences
(Clute, TX)
Aug 2023
Future Stars, 2nd Edition Exhibition
The Holy Art Gallery
(London, UK) (Athens, Greece)
