New Initiative Gives Local BIPOC Artists Funding and Public-Facing Studio Spaces — So You Can Watch Them Work!

New Initiative Gives Local BIPOC Artists Funding and Public-Facing Studio Spaces — So You Can Watch Them Work!

Artist Royal Sumikat

Asia Society Texas Center just launched its new Artists on Site program, which supports Houston-based BIPOC artists with funding and work spaces. The four featured artists will transform the building's Louisa Stude Sarofim Gallery into public-facing, working art studios, allowing Asia Society visitors to observe them at work.


The initiative opened yesterday, and runs through Jan. 24. It's the organization's direct response to the economic toll the Covid crisis has taken on artists, and was formed after months of conversations with artists about their needs for time, space, financial resources and outreach. Artists on Site provides each participant with a $1,500 stipend and an additional $500 for materials, plus a studio space, networking opportunities and a prominent platform for their work.

Artist Ahra Cho

Bridget Bray, a curator and director of exhibitions at ASTC, consulted with colleagues to develop a diverse list of artists for consideration. The four chosen for Artists on Site are colorful abstract painter Ahra Cho, textile artist Laura Drey, interdisciplinary artist Brandon Tho Harris and muralist Royal Sumikat.

"I'm looking forward to the deep dive of artmaking and thinking and engaging with Houston's diverse community and creative artists," says Drey, whose work reflects on her Mexican-American heritage by incorporating textiles — like burlap and twist ties — used by family members who worked on Texas land as migrant farmers. "I'm most excited about the idea of public-facing studio spaces and sharing my methodology with others. The efforts, support and meaningful relations provided to me through Asia Society Texas Center will undoubtedly impact my art practice in ways that continue to evolve long after my visit."

Art + Entertainment
‘Natural Passion’ Makes Fourth-Gen Houstonian Sarah Callaway Sulma a Realty Star

AS A FOURTH-generation Houstonian, Sarah Callaway Sulma has a unique and invaluable view of the city. Her deep seated connection to Houston led her down the path to becoming one the city's most well-respected, and renowned real estate agents. Sarah's natural passion for the real estate industry from a young age led her to where she is today. "I know that it sounds cheesy, but it is the truth! I wanted to be in real estate from a young age," Sarah shares. "The late-great restaurateur, Tony Vallone, put me together with real estate legend, Martha Turner, and Martha put me together with Cathy Cagle. The rest is history-13 years of success and counting!" Now with over 13 years in real estate and $55M+ in residential real estate sales, Sarah brings a rare combination of knowledge, skill, and advocacy to each one of her clients.

Keep ReadingShow less

Hugo Ortega (photo by Gittings Photography)

WHAT STARTED AS a casual watering hole with simple soups, salads and sandwiches — and a popcorn machine in the bar — is now a top restaurant owned by one of the city’s most respected restaurateurs and a James Beard Award-winning chef.

Keep ReadingShow less
Food

Norigami spread (photo by Michael Anthony)

FALL IS HERE, supposedly, and while the weather isn't cooperating, the Houston restaurant scene has plenty of cool things in store for this weekend and beyond.

Keep ReadingShow less
Food