Chu Okoli is an internationally recognized multidisciplinary artist whose distinctive concentric-circle paintings explore the relationship between art, science, and the universe. Based in Houston and New York, his work has earned international recognition, including the Medici Medal at the Florence Biennale, and has been exhibited at major art fairs such as Art Basel Miami and ArtExpo New York. Through our conversation on Small Art Talk, Chu shares the inspiration behind his groundbreaking artistic language and creative journey.

Houston Studio Location
2000 Edwards Street, Studio #319
Houston, TX 77042

Website: www.chuartgallery.com/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/chutheartist/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chuartist
Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@chuartgallery
Youtube: https://youtu.be/iVcuLBCdmTo?si=-wrzJSRD2BUdSDmb

Born in Bogotá, Colombia, Rodrigo Aguilera is a Houston-based painter known for developing his signature style, Abstrealism—a fusion of abstraction and realism. His paintings appear as colorful abstract compositions up close, but reveal striking portraits and recognizable imagery when viewed from a distance. Through meticulous brushwork, collage, and layered textures, Aguilera explores the relationship between individual fragments and the complete image, inviting viewers to experience art from multiple perspectives.
In 2002, Aguilera founded "Art Gallery," a Houston-based visual arts magazine, which he led until 2006. He later launched "Art 713" in 2014 and currently publishes "Aplauso," continuing his commitment to art journalism.


Silver Street Studios | West Gallery | Door 4
2000 Edwards Street

https://www.instagram.com/rodrigoaguileraart/
https://www.sawyeryards.com/do/rodrigo-aguilera-abstrealism
https://www.facebook.com/rodrigo.aguilera.754/

A Houston-based oil and acrylic artist with more than twenty-five years of experience, Cassandra creates atmospheric works that transform nature into metaphor. After stepping away from a corporate career to devote herself to family and studio practice, her artistic voice deepened into something more intentional, more contemplative, and more fearless.
Cassandra’s work has been featured in gala auctions benefiting the Houston Grand Opera, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Alzheimer’s Association, and has been recognized in the Houston Chronicle, Art Houston Magazine, and Latino Leaders Magazine.
Through her art, Cassandra invites viewers into a luminous pause — a reminder that even in darkness, something beautiful exists.

Silver Street Studios
2000 Edwards Street #101

https://www.bluebutterflydesigns.net
https://www.instagram.com/cassandrabohnel
https://www.facebook.com/cassandra.bohnelinnard.7

Narmin is an international artist and the founder of Narmin Art Studio. With a deep passion for serving people through creativity, she expresses her art across various media—oils, acrylics, pastels, and even textiles like silk, denim, and cotton. Educated at the Azerbaijani State University of Culture and Art with a 6-year degree in fashion design and painting, Narmin’s journey began earlier in the private studio of her beloved mentor, Arif Aziz. Today, her art speaks across borders, bringing vibrant color and soul to every piece she creates.

https://narminartstudio.com
Instagram: @narminartstudio
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/narminartist
TikTok: @narminartstudio

a Houston-based Indian artist whose lifelong passion for the arts led her from a successful career in software engineering to opening her own art studio. Inspired by her Indian heritage, her work celebrates culture, spirituality, and the strength and resilience of women through vibrant colors, symbolism, and expressive storytelling. A lifelong learner and creative explorer, Manju is also pursuing her vision of using calligraphy to share meaningful messages that inspire and connect with people.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giftsethereal

Houston-born, self-taught abstract artist whose passion for creativity began at an early age. Since becoming a professional artist in 2015, she has exhibited her work in galleries, exhibitions, festivals, and art markets throughout the Houston area. Working from her studio at Winter Street Studios, she creates vibrant abstract paintings inspired by color, movement, and emotion. She also incorporates her original artwork into fashion, transforming her paintings into wearable art showcased through runway shows and creative collaborations.

Studio Location
2101 Winter St, Studio B135
Houston, TX 77007

Website: https://www.angelarosewallingart.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelarosewallingart/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngelaRoseWallingArt
Email: angelaroseart13@gmail.com

Houston-based figurative artist and art educator whose work explores human connection through expressive, large-scale paintings. Influenced by her Brazilian and Italian heritage, she combines vibrant color, bold brushwork, and dynamic compositions to capture emotion, gesture, and the relationships between people. Holding an MFA in Painting from the New York Academy of Art, she also teaches painting, art history, and art appreciation at Houston Community College, where education continues to inspire her artistic practice. Her work has been exhibited in galleries and juried exhibitions across Texas and New York and has been featured in New American Paintings.

Website: https://www.darlabarolini.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darlanorma/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/darlanorma/

Houston-based plein air painter and art educator whose expressive urban landscapes capture the evolving character of the city through direct observation. Inspired by the teachings of Paul Cézanne during his studies at the Kansas City Art Institute, he developed a painting practice rooted in working on location and documenting places over multiple sessions. After a career in sales, he transitioned into art education, earning his All-Level Art Certification from the University of Houston while continuing to build his artistic career. His work explores what he calls the "beautiful ugly"—the unique relationship between Houston's buildings, highways, bayous, parks, and the natural environment—creating layered paintings that reflect the city's changing light, atmosphere, and spirit.

Website: https://deatlyart.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deatlyarthur/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=arthur%20deatly

Astronaut, filmmaker, photographer, author, and explorer whose career has taken him from Earth to the International Space Station and back with a renewed perspective on our planet. During more than 200 days in space, he served as Commander of the International Space Station, piloted Space Shuttle Endeavour, and captured over 700 remarkable photographs of Earth from orbit. His IMAX film A Beautiful Planet offers a breathtaking view of our world from space, while his books—including View from Above, The Astronaut's Guide to Leaving the Planet, and How to Astronaut: An Insider's Guide to Leaving Planet Earth—share inspiring stories, practical insights, and the wonder of human space exploration with readers of all ages.

Website: https://www.terryvirts.com
Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terry_Virts
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/astro_terry/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AstroTerry

An international photographer and artist based in Houston, Texas, Donna Carnahan is known for her breathtaking landscape photography inspired by the beauty of Italy and the Mediterranean. Since discovering her passion for Renaissance art in Florence, she has traveled extensively, capturing hidden coastlines, vineyards, architecture, and natural landscapes with a distinctive sense of light, atmosphere, and romance.
Donna's work has been exhibited in Houston and internationally, including the Florence Biennale in Italy and M.A.D.S. Art Gallery. Her photography has been featured in Forbes and LandEscape Art Review, and her limited-edition works are held in private collections. Alongside her photography, she also creates mixed media artwork inspired by her travels and the places that have shaped her artistic journey.
Through every image, Donna invites viewers to slow down, appreciate the beauty of the world, and experience the joy, peace, and wonder she discovers while exploring it.

Website: www.ladonnafoto.com
Instagram: @ladonnafoto
Facebook: La Donna Foto Facebook (@fotoladonna)

Born in Houston, Texas, is an artist and educator currently based in Los Angeles, California. He earned his MFA in Textiles from California College of the Arts and BFA in Fibers from Baylor University. Over the past decade, Adair's artwork has been selected for juried exhibitions throughout the United States and in Ukraine. He has given lectures and artist talks at several notable art institutions including Lawndale Art Center, DiverseWorks, Post-Studio Projects, and The Painting Salon of San Francisco. In 2021, he completed an artist residency at BOX13 ArtSpace in Houston before relocating to Los Angeles. Throughout his career as an art educator, Adair has taught drawing, art appreciation, art history, and general studio art courses for Lone Star College - University Park, Houston Community College, and Houston ISD. Most recently, he has worked in public-facing roles at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. He loves cats, science fiction, and the supernatural TV show Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Website: https://adairstephens.com
Instagram: @adair_stephens

A self-taught, instinctively expressive artist, ML HuFF blends Renaissance influences with a bold sense of Funk to create work that explores the depth and complexity of the human spirit. Through fearless experimentation, rich textures, and expressive techniques, her paintings strike a compelling balance between chaos and clarity, inviting viewers into an emotional and imaginative experience.
From her beginnings as a muralist and faux finisher to exhibiting throughout Texas and co-owning Watson Huff Galleries, ML has built a career defined by creativity, passion, and authenticity. Today, she creates from Studio B110 – 110 ArtDen at Winter Street Studios, Sawyer Yards in Houston, where she continues to inspire collectors and fellow artists with her distinctive artistic voice.

Studio: 110 ArtDen – Studio B110, Winter Street Studios, Sawyer Yards, Houston, TX

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mlhuffdesigns/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleLHuffArtist
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mlhuffdesigns
Redbubble (Prints & Merchandise): https://www.redbubble.com/people/mlhuffdesigns

Houston-based contemporary artist with more than 18 years of exhibitions and over 800 collectors worldwide. His career includes solo exhibitions at Jack Meier Gallery (Houston), BG Gallery (Santa Monica), TAG Gallery (Beverly Hills), appearances at the LA Art Show, and the installation of his 20-foot public sculpture Pursue Your Passion in Missouri City, Texas. Named one of Houston Press' Top 10 Houston Artists (2014) and recognized among the Houston Chronicle's 40 Most Fascinating People (2015), Taft also shares his expertise through lectures on The Business of Art at the University of Houston, Fresh Arts, and the Art Institutes.
Together with his wife and creative partner, Dana McWhorter, he has raised more than $1 million for charitable organizations through donated artwork. Their collectors and collaborations include BMW, Porsche, the Houston Astros, the Houston Texans, and luxury hotel brands such as Westin and JW Marriott. In 2022 and 2025, the couple published 50 Artists Houston, celebrating the city's vibrant art community, and they continue to collaborate on a new body of work that merges both of their artistic voices.

Studio: Winter Street Studios, Studio B140
2101 Winter Street
Houston, TX 77007

Website: https://TaftMcWhorterArt.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taftmcwhorterart/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaftMcWhorterArt/

Houston-based contemporary artist LaMonté French creates emotionally charged mixed-media paintings that explore identity, history, faith, politics, addiction, healing, and the complexities of the human experience. A self-taught artist influenced by Abstract Expressionism, Jean-Michel Basquiat, jazz, philosophy, and fashion, French describes his visual language as "Simplistic Complexity," layering symbolism, raw materials, and bold color into deeply personal narratives. His work has been featured in acclaimed solo exhibitions including Fuego, Memoirs of Love and Hate, Como Se Va, and In Tender Peaks, Grace Unfolds, earning recognition as one of Houston's compelling contemporary voices.

Website: https://www.aliseartgroup.com/lamonte-frenchh-artist-page
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lamontefrenchart/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lamontefrenchart/
Artsy: https://www.artsy.net/artist/lamonte-french
Studio Representation: Alise Art Group – Houston, Texas
https://www.aliseartgroup.com/lamonte-frenchh-artist-page

A Houston/Gulf Coast artist known for transforming century-old cast-iron sewing machines and reclaimed metal into one-of-a-kind sculptures. Inspired by a lifelong passion for antiques, vintage machinery, and automobiles, Billy creates imaginative works that celebrate craftsmanship, history, and transportation.
His award-winning sculptures have earned Best of Show at the Galveston Art League (2024) for 310 to Yuma and First Place at the Art League of Baytown Upcycle Art Challenge (2023). He regularly exhibits with the Galveston Art League, Art League of Baytown, the Corvette Expo, and the Moody Gardens Air, Boat & Car Show.

Awards & Publications

• 🏆 Best of Show — Galveston Art League (2024), 310 to Yuma
• 🥇 First Place, Decorative Category — Art League of Baytown Upcycle Art Challenge (2023)
• 📰 Featured in Galveston Monthly — The Art of Upcycling: https://www.galvestonmonthly.com/news/the-art-of-upcycling/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billyvscoppercreations/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bill.vandeberghe.7

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, and now based in Houston, Luis R. Sandoval creates powerful abstract works that radiate energy and emotion. 🌎🎨 His art is all about the “not knowing” state of mind—letting colors, textures, and organic shapes unfold on canvas without a set plan. Through vibrant brushstrokes, drips, and layered transparencies, Luis connects with viewers on a primal level, sparking imagination and soul connection.

Solo Shows:
John Ross Palmer’s Gallery, Houston, TX – 2024
HCC Spring Branch Gallery, Houston, TX – 2025

Internationally acclaimed Italian tenor with a 40+ year career. Trained in traditional bel canto by his father and tenor Lazzaro Ferrari. Specializes in demanding repertoire by Bellini, Donizetti, and Puccini. Winner of the 2007 Mario Del Monaco Foundation competition.
Performed leading tenor roles in operas including in La Bohème, Elisir D'Amore, La Favorita, Rigoletto, Don Pasquale, La Sonnambula, La Traviata, Il Trovatore, and more. Appeared in major theaters across Italy, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and beyond. Besides being one of the youngest tenors to perform a lead role in an opera other highlights include: Soloist in the world premiere of “Missa Bosniensi.” Released the album Pasion Latina (2013).
Performed Verdi’s Messa da Requiem with the National Italian Philarmonic several in several cities, Honored by the City of Houston: April 24, 2016 proclaimed “Angelo Ferrari Day solo concerts all over the world.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angelo.ferrari.18

Internationally acclaimed Houston artist and founder of the Art Movement of Escapism and the Escapist Mentorship Program. Since 1998, his work has been exhibited and collected worldwide, with paintings in the private collections of Presidents George H. W. Bush and George W. Bush, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, and filmmaker John Waters. Palmer is the author of several art books, creator of the Escapist Gallery & Studios, and has led international projects including the Resolve to Struggle® Campaign. In 2019, he completed his landmark Satori series and was honored at Arlington National Cemetery for his artistic legacy.

Website https://www.johnrosspalmer.com
Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Ross_Palmer
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/johnrosspalmer/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/johnrosspalmer/

Known as "Girl With Wings", a name she received during a national TV appearance in Serbia, Dejana Nezić embraced the symbol because it reflected how she already viewed her life. Born in Serbia in 1994 without upper limbs, she learned to use her feet for everyday life and began painting at just six years old. She later graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts and became the youngest member of the international Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA). A former World and European Champion in para-taekwondo, Dejana believes in giving the maximum with what you have and approaching every challenge with determination, patience, and love. Today, through her vibrant artwork and inspiring story, she continues to encourage audiences worldwide while embracing motherhood as one of life's greatest gifts.

Website: https://www.girlwithwings.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devojka_sa_krilima/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/girl_with_wings_art/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nezicmare
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565865419493

Houston-based artist whose work explores creativity, transformation, and the beauty found within imperfection. Inspired by the ancient art of kintsugi, she believes art is a process of becoming — something that grows, shifts, breaks, and rebuilds through each honest attempt.
Her gentle yet powerful approach to teaching is grounded in empathy, encouraging artists to release judgment, embrace mistakes, and discover their unique artistic voice through the process itself.
Website: www.crystalwreden.com
Publications & Features:
September 2025 - Featured in the book 50 Artists: Houston Volume 2
August 9th, 2023 - Artist Feature on Super Funky Fresh Blog
January 14th, 2023 - In this week’s issue of The Leader - Art Valet: Outdoor crafts market hosts artists displaced by fire
Nov/Dec 2022 - My painting “Gulf of Mexico Glow” on the cover of Drilling Contractor Magazine
September 30th, 2022 - In this week’s issue of The Leader - Art Valet: Get Your Art Feels on This Weekend
June 29th, 2022 - In this week’s issue of The Leader - Art Valet: Take a tropical staycation at artist studio

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystalwredenart/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crystalwredenart

Houston-native conductor, composer, and music director recognized for his artistic excellence and community leadership. He serves as Artistic Director of the Houston Cecilia Chamber Choir and the Bravura Concert Series, and as Director of Music and Liturgy at All Saints Catholic Church in Houston Heights.
Gonzalo is an Executive Board Member of the National Pastoral Musicians (Galveston–Houston Chapter) and the Hispanic Pastoral Musicians Conference (Houston Chapter), as well as a Board Member and Director of Marketing for Catholic Literary Arts and Director of the Hispanic Division for Simply Liturgical.
A recipient of the 2019 Motif Award for Humanity and Fine Arts, Gonzalo has conducted major works including John Rutter’s and Gabriel Fauré’s Requiems, Ola Gjeilo’s Sunrise Mass, and Stravinsky’s Symphony of Psalms. As a commissioned composer, his works have been performed internationally in Rome, the Vatican, and France. He is also an active tenor soloist and cantor, serving liturgical communities throughout Houston.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carpediemramos/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gonzalo.a.ramos.1

Clara Woods is a painter, entrepreneur, and motivational creative whose art speaks louder than words. After a prenatal stroke left her unable to read, write, or speak, Clara found her voice through bold, heart-lifting art that communicates emotion, joy, and connection. She is the founder of the Clara Woods Collection, host of the Inclusion Matters Podcast, and a passionate advocate for inclusion and diversity. With over 800 original artworks sold, exhibitions across three continents, and a global community of more than 1.5 million, Clara’s journey powerfully proves that being different is a superpower. Named a Forbes “Game Changer,” Clara is also a global speaker on disability and inclusion, creativity as communication, and youth entrepreneurship. Betina Genovesi is an entrepreneur, inclusion advocate, and motivational speaker known for building a global platform that amplifies Clara’s artistic voice and mission. Together, Betina and Clara deliver powerful keynotes on inclusion, resilience, and human potential—sharing a message that celebrates difference as strength and demonstrates the limitless possibilities that emerge when creativity becomes a language for connection.

Website: www.clarawoodscollection.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woods_clara_/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clarawoodsofficial/photos

Teresa L. Staley is a multidisciplinary artist working in acrylics, oils, digital media, and mixed media. Born in Australia and raised in West Houston, she was mentored by her father, artist Roy Staley, and holds an honors degree in Visual Communications from the Art Institute of Houston.
Staley is a resident artist at Rozi Turnbull Gallery in Houston’s Sawyer Yards. Recent recognition includes Featured Artist in “50 Artists of Houston 2025,” River Awards Visual Artist (2021, 2022), Selected Muralist for Sugar Land Arts Festival (2024), and juror for the Conroe Art League’s international competition (March 2026).

Website: https://muralsfauxbydesign.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/staleyteresa/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teresa.l.staley

The visionary artist and founder of Fire Gallery in Houston’s Sawyer Yards Arts District. His work spans ceramics, glass, and metal — exploring powerful themes of perception, admiration, and critique through pieces shaped by intense processes and creative fire.
With over 20+ years in the art world and a deep commitment to community building through teaching and collaboration, LeRoy creates meaningful experiences both in his studio practice and in his classes. From flame-kissed vessels to hands-on pottery and glass workshops, he bridges traditional craft with a contemporary artistic voice. He has also contributed work to local community art projects — including commemorative glass pieces recognizing 50 Artists, Houston.

Website: https://firegallery.art/leroy-grubbs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firegallerysy/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=LeRoy%20Grubbs%20visionary%20artist%20

A Houston-based artist, furniture designer, and craftsman, Eddie has spent nearly 20 years creating in the same creative space while bringing more than 40 years of experience in furniture design and interior craftsmanship to his work. Raised in North Louisiana, Eddie developed a lifelong passion for transforming everyday materials—wood, rocks, antiques, and found objects—into functional works of art.
As a furniture designer and builder of unique home interiors, Eddie finds inspiration in restoring and reimagining antique pieces, preserving their character while giving them new purpose. His work is deeply rooted in craftsmanship, sustainability, and the belief that objects carry stories, memories, and a sense of history.
Through restoration, repurposing, and thoughtful design, Eddie breathes new life into forgotten materials, demonstrating that creativity often begins with the ability to see beauty and possibility where others may not.

A Houston-based gallerist, curator, and owner of Catherine Couturier Gallery, one of Texas’s leading destinations for fine art photography, Catherine Couturier has built a career dedicated to championing exceptional photographic work.
With a background in photography dating back to the late 1990s, Couturier took over the former John Cleary Gallery in 2008 and transformed it into a respected space showcasing both influential 20th-century photography and innovative contemporary practices. Her curatorial philosophy is guided by a simple yet powerful principle: to present “good photography”—work that carries depth, honesty, and lasting impact.
An active voice in the photography community, Couturier serves as a juror, portfolio reviewer, lecturer, and advisor for organizations including the Houston Center for Photography and international photography platforms. As a member of the Association of International Photography Art Dealers, she represents a commitment to excellence and integrity in the field.
Through her gallery and curatorial work, Couturier continues to support emerging and established photographers while contributing to the growth and evolution of fine art photography.

Website:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/catherinecouturiergallery/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatherineCouturierGallery

A vibrant bilingual singer and songwriter with seven albums and 25 years of international performing experience, Karina Nistal has collaborated with artists and renowned music producers around the world. Formerly based in Los Angeles, she now calls Houston home, where she performs regularly with her live band of accomplished local musicians.
Her genre-defying music blends hip-hop, pop, alternative, dancehall, electronic, reggaeton, and Latin jazz. Her debut album, Nistyle, introduced ReggaeTron—a fusion of electro and reggaeton that earned recognition from Billboard Magazine and an invitation to the Latin Billboard Music Awards. She has toured internationally with Armed Forces Entertainment and released seven albums showcasing her signature eclectic style.
Through her music, Karina inspires audiences to embrace the moment, celebrate life, and dance.

Website: https://karinanistal.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karinanistal/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karinanistal

A Houston-based multidisciplinary artist originally from Puebla, Mexico, Betirri creates work at the intersection of art, architecture, and sport. With a background in architecture and fine arts from the University of Houston, he has developed a distinctive visual language best known through his surreal “bodiless” football figures, which explore movement, identity, and the emotional power of the game.
For Betirri, football is more than a sport—it is a universal language that connects cultures, histories, and communities around the world. His practice spans painting, sculpture, murals, and large-scale public installations, blending design, storytelling, and social engagement.
His work has been exhibited internationally, including projects connected to FIFA World Cups, where the global spirit of football serves as a powerful source of inspiration. Through public art, collaborations, and youth workshops, Betirri continues to make art accessible and transformative while contributing to Houston’s dynamic creative landscape.

Website: https://betirri.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistbetirri/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/betirri/photos

A Houston-area encaustic artist, Susan Salter’s work explores abstraction, texture, symbolism, and layered storytelling through the luminous medium of hot beeswax and resin. Originally rooted in theatre arts, Susan earned an MFA in Directing from the University of Houston and spent years directing productions, designing theatrical sets and props, and engaging with community and church theatre.
Later in life, she discovered encaustic painting and developed a distinctive visual language characterized by layered wax surfaces, vibrant color fields, shellac burns, collage elements, and hidden symbolic details. Susan expanded her artistic practice through studies at the Glassell School of Art, continuing to explore new techniques and approaches.
Her work has been exhibited in galleries and juried exhibitions throughout Texas, receiving awards and recognition. In addition to creating her own artwork, she teaches encaustic painting and is passionate about inspiring creativity in others.
Her creative journey spans visual art, writing, directing, teaching, and community engagement, including work with special needs theatre programs.

Website: https://www.susansalterarts.com/
Website WIVLA: https://www.wivla.org/board
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slsalter96/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/slsalter96

An internationally published author, playwright, educator, and literary professional, Tamara Alyokhina has dedicated her career to storytelling, education, and the arts. A graduate of Odesa I. I. Mechnikov National University with a degree in Philology and trained in Theater and Film Directing, she has been publishing her work since 1998.
Tamara is the author of books, numerous plays, and audiobooks for both children and adults. Throughout her career, she has worked as a literary editor, director, and educator, teaching Russian language, World Literature, and Art History.
For more than two decades, her creative work has inspired readers and audiences through stories that celebrate imagination, culture, and universal values of truth, kindness, and beauty.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tamara.alehina

Rebekah Molander is a Houston-based contemporary artist whose bright, colorful work explores growth, connection, and emotion. Painting since childhood, she describes her practice simply: "Where Words Fail, Art Speaks" — using color and line to express what she can't put into words. Her constantly evolving style has been shown in tent shows, studio shows, solo and group exhibits, and galleries across Houston.
Since 2021, Rebekah has partnered with local charities through live painting events, raising over $25,000 for more than 20 nonprofits — a mission she calls "The Art of Giving," which includes her own annual charity event held every November at her studio. She is also part of Dr. Alanna Bree's Masterpiece Collective, contributing to a traveling art installation on skin disease awareness set to open at the Houston Health Museum in 2026. Her work and story have been featured in The Leader, VoyageHouston, Bold Journey, Canvas Rebel, ShoutOut Houston, the Houston Chronicle, and the "50 Artists Houston" book. She works from her studio in Houston's Sawyer Yards, Winter Street Studios, Studio C120.
Studio
Winter Street Studios – Studio C120
2101 Winter Street
Houston, TX 77007
Website
https://www.followyourartbyreka.com
Follow Rebekah Molander
Instagram: https://instagram.com/followyourartbyreka/
Facebook: https://facebook.com/FollowYourArtbyReka