fine + funky

Houston artists get wild in 'fine to funky' downtown sale and showcase

Check out Billy (no last name required) by Milton Scott Phillips.

Image courtesy of Milton Scott Phillips

Fans of edgy and provocative art take note: a new show featuring a host of local artists offers a tempting variety of “fine to funky” works. Dubbed the Wild at Art Showcase and Sale, the free show stars some instantly recognizable names in Houston’s and Texas’ art scene.

Wild at Art runs Friday and Saturday, February 4 and 5, at downtown’s MATCH venue (3400 Main St.) in the gallery. Those interested need only register online for the free show. Friday night’s opening will feature tunes courtesy of local artist Cinquemani.

Proceeds from sales benefit the StellaNova Foundation, which assists Houstonians experiencing mental health issues who do not have access to care and treatment.

The eclectic showcase boasts paintings and photographs by Darron Franta, Kaima Marie, Scotty Phillips, Tra’ Slaughter, and Joni Zavitsanos. Meanwhile, works by Kelley Devine, Phyllis Hand, Robert Rauschenberg, Sanjay Sharma, and more will also be on display and offered for sale along with objects d’art, collectibles, and "eclectica.”

“All artists in the show, with the exception of the late Jimmie Lee Sudduth, have a connection to Texas and in most cases, to Houston,” Stella Nova executive director Doug Harris notes.

Sure to be a draw are two works by the late Robert Rauschenberg, a Texas native. H-Towners will surely delight in photographs by Houston-born Darron Franta and paintings by former radio personality, KLOL Radio Outlaw Scotty Phillips.

Cool kids can also check out the Studio B Collection, an array of hand-painted denim jackets and vests created by local, graffiti-style artists working on consignment for the foundation.

Houstonphiles should also note that the StellaNova Foundation is planning a second showcase this year and is working with the estate of legendary Houston nightclub impresario Jimmie Menutis. The future show will highlight items from his personal collection along with other items relevant to Houston’s rich history.

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Wild at Art; MATCH, 3400 Main St. Show opens 6 pm Friday, February 4 and 10 am Saturday, February 5. Register here.

openings fundraisers galleries

let's open this house

Houston Theater District's free, family friendly event returns in March

Photo courtesy of Theater District Houston

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Houstonians looking for fun, free activities in March can take part in the ExxonMobil Theater District Open House on Monday, March 9 in downtown Houston from 11 am to 3:30 pm. Attendees can expect free performances, hands-on activities, and special promotions from a variety of arts groups.

Among the planned events are an enriching, interactive, family workshop with an Ailey Arts in Education Teaching Artist, hosted by Performing Arts Houston. The Houston Ballet II will perform excerpts from Sleeping Beauty and other ballets. DaCamera will perform jazz and chamber music in Lynn Wyatt Square and the Center for Dance. Theatre Under the Stars will host interactive musical theater workshops at the Hobby Center. The event concludes at 3 pm with a free concert by the Houston Symphony. A full listing of activities is on the event website.

“This event is a powerful reminder of Houston’s position as an international cultural destination and our shared pride in the arts,” said chair of the Houston Theater District Board of Directors Meg Booth. “The variety of theaters, performing arts organizations and cultural diversity is on display and completely free for guests of all ages to explore — whether that’s a backstage tour, a performance or a hands-on activity for kids.”

Venues like the Alley Theatre, Jones Hall, the Wortham Theater Center, and others will be open for attendees to explore and learn more about the arts presenters who perform there and what it takes to be on stage.

Food trucks will be available throughout the district and concessions are available for purchase at the Hobby Center, Wortham Theater Center, Jones Hall, Lynn Wyatt Square, and Alley Theatre Skylight Lounge.

Parking is available at the Hobby Center, the Lyric Garage, and Theater District garages.

In 2025, the event resumed for the first time since 2019, drawing nearly 7,500 participants. Organizers are hoping for even more visitors this year.

“This event isn't just a part of Houston, it’s part of family histories, too,” said Houston Theater District executive director Craig Hauschildt. “Last year, we heard from parents who first attended in the ‘90s and were returning with their own kids. Every visit is an opportunity to continue that tradition.”

performing-arts family friendly