Arts

San Antonio-based artist, Rikkianne Van Kirk, grew up in a small town along the New River Gorge in southern West Virginia. While being raised by her depression-era grandparents, she remembers drifting around to estate sales and being taught by her grandfather the value of the past, respecting old objects, and the value of reusing what you have. Her grandfather seemed to be ahead of his time in the way of sustainability even recycling cans which afforded him the ability to purchase a 10-speed bicycle for her.

Local contemporary artist, Rex Hausmann, recently participated in an international group exhibition at Waterfall Mansion & Gallery in New York City entitled Light House. The show was originally planning to run from February 6, 2021 - March 27, 2021, but was extended until May 29, 2021.

Jorge Purón is a contemporary artist who is originally from Piedras Negras. Beginning at a young age, he worked at a grocery store where he was inspired by the beautiful colors and forms of the produce and the boxes from which they came. Much of his work incorporates hard edge landscapes and bold color which he observed from scenes in the urban landscape and colorful festivals (ferias). His art is influenced by a life lived on both sides of the US-Mexico border. 

Historically, female artists have had little representation in galleries and museums. Thankfully, there has been a turning of the tide as museums and galleries are having exhibitions dedicated to highlighting female talent, specifically from Texas.

Sponsored: As Texans realize that COVID-19 is going to be a longer journey than they first thought, many have been turning their focus to coastal respite in conjunction with remote working. The kids are out of school, their camps are closed, and adults still have to work, so many have been making an experience out of it by literally moving to the beach for the summer. The real estate market is booming on the Texas coast as many have decided to combine social distancing, working, vacationing, and real estate investing to make the most out of the pandemic.

During COVID-19, many have been harkening back to a more analog time, digging into the depths of their closets, and dusting off their jig-saw puzzles. Some people are beginning to trade them with their family and friends to see what new and interesting images they can piece together. 

Historically, the McNay Art Museum had the perception within the San Antonio community of being primarily for elite patrons. One who might have been unfamiliar with the museum could have easily gotten the impression that it was a closed-off residence — which it was originally — or private club with its narrow gates and meandering driveways. These perceptions are changing as the McNay is actively taking on a new approach to its outreach in the community.

2019 was a fantastic year to highlight local art and design in San Antonio! Below are our top five most viewed articles in 2019.

In November 2019, our M!SA Advisory Panel spoke with local students about their career choices in professions like architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, graphic design, culinary arts, contemporary art, and film. Click the image below to watch and pass this video along to those you know who want to pursue a career in the visual arts!

Taeg Nishimoto is a graduate professor in the College of Architecture, Construction and Planning at UTSA. Originally from Japan, his interests span from all methods of architectural design from the theoretical to the technical. Professor Nishimoto is an impressive resource for UTSA students. As stated on his biography on the UTSA website: