Behind-the-Scenes sylvia Troconis Behind-the-Scenes sylvia Troconis

Mastering the Craft: An In-Depth Look into the Art of Framing

Having devoted 2.5 years to the field of picture framing and obtaining certification last year, the realization dawned upon me that framing is a distinct craft with a depth of knowledge often underestimated. Preservation techniques, contingent upon the value, whether monetary or sentimental, underscore the intricacies involved. In this blog post, I will meticulously outline the process of framing a print by the esteemed artist and friend, Nick Ramos.

Having devoted 2.5 years to the field of picture framing and obtaining certification last year from the PPFA (Professional Picture Framers Association), the realization dawned upon me that framing is a distinct craft with a depth of knowledge often underestimated. Preservation techniques, contingent upon the value, whether monetary or sentimental, underscore the intricacies involved. In this blog post, I will meticulously outline the process of framing a print by the esteemed artist and friend, Nick Ramos.

Selecting an Unconventional Moulding:

Initiating the framing process involves the critical task of selecting a moulding that aligns with and enhances the artwork. Opting for an unconventional moulding sourced from Gryphon Moulding, I sought to mirror the distinctive features of the character depicted in Nick's print. The design elements, including balls reminiscent of the character's afro, contribute to a cohesive visual presentation that encapsulates the essence of the artwork.

Ball Moulding from Gryphon Moulding.

Navigating the Challenges of Unconventional Moulding:

The utilization of unconventional moulding introduces distinctive challenges. In contrast to standard cut-and-glue framing techniques, precision takes precedence. The process necessitates cutting larger pieces and meticulously sanding them down to achieve the desired middle of the ball, ensuring a flawless and visually appealing corner finish.

Working with this particular moulding accentuates the importance of accuracy in dimension. Tailored to specific art dimensions, each step demands meticulous measurement and calculation to guarantee the frame perfectly encapsulates the artwork. Deviating from these dimensions poses the risk of compromising the final outcome, emphasizing the significance of precision.

Sanding the ends until is right in the middle.

V Nailing Technique:

After gluing the moulding together and to fortify the corners and uphold structural integrity, the frame is secured using the V nailing technique. This involves strategically shooting V-shaped staples from the back, establishing a secure bond that ensures the frame components remain tightly integrated. This additional safety measure contributes to enhanced strength and durability throughout the framing process.

Check the V nail in the moulding.

Preserving Artwork with Acid-Free Foam Core:

Prior to framing the print, a methodical approach is employed, involving the hinge of the artwork to an acid-free foam core board using P90 tape. Beyond aesthetic considerations, the acid-free nature of the foam core mitigates yellowing over time, that can then be transferred to the print.

This P90 tape goes around the foam core and then is attached to that foam core with another piece of tape creating a T hinge.

Creating a Precision Mat:

The subsequent step involves crafting a precision mat using the Valiani mat cutter. While the mat may serve decorative purposes, its primary function is to establish a gap between the artwork and the glass. This separation prevents the transfer of the print onto the glass over time, damaging the art in the long run.

Designing the mat.

Choosing Artglass AR70 for UV Protection:

The final touch involves the selection of suitable glass. Artglass AR70, is an anti-reflection glass with 70% UV protection. I chose this middle grade protection glass to safeguard the print. This strategic choice guards against the detrimental effects of UV light, preventing fading of the print over time and aligning with the commitment to preserving the integrity of the artwork.

Completing the Framing Process:

With all components meticulously arranged—the print, foam core, mat, and Artglass AR70—the art package is carefully fitted into the frame. The back is sealed, and finishing touches, such as hangers, wire, pom poms, and stickers, are added.

Framing emerges as an art form in itself, demanding precision, attention to detail, and a profound understanding of the artwork's essence.

Read More
Events and Exhibitions sylvia Troconis Events and Exhibitions sylvia Troconis

Quick Guide To The Colors Of Science: Spectral Lights Of Elements As Inspiration In The “Hola” Part Of The "Hola Howdy Hello" Art Show At Georgetown Art Center

If you are at the Georgetown Art Center (or maybe not) and are watching the “Hola, Howdy, Hello” show, you might be wondering why some pieces have elements names. Dive in and enjoy.

If you are at the Georgetown Art Center and are watching the “Hola, Howdy, Hello” show, you might be wondering why some pieces have elements names. Scroll down to find the one you are looking at for a brief explanation and enjoy.

This part of the exhibition is inspired in the SPECTRAL LIGHT OF ELEMENTS. The spectral light of elements is a distinctive array of lights (color lights), each representing a specific element from the periodic table, like a thumbprint for elements. No two sets of spectral lights are alike, providing a method to identify elements, even those in distant objects. An spectroscope breaks the light from a single material into its component colors like a prism separates white light the colors of the rainbow

Image extracted from https://astro3d.org.au/education-and-outreach/diy-smartphone-spectroscope/

This identification method is crucial for scientists studying celestial bodies such as Jupiter, stars, or Saturn. By analyzing the unique colors emitted or absorbed by these elements, scientists gain insights into the composition, temperature, and distance of these celestial objects.

Sylvia Troconis has been obsessed with this subject for years. She has worked in this subject for a long time during her professional career as an artist.

Aluminum: Lightweight, silvery metal renowned for its versatility and unique properties. In practical applications, aluminum is alloyed with other elements to create customized materials. Aluminum is one of the most abundant elements in the Earth's crust, making up about 8% of the Earth's solid surface.

Emission Spectrum Aluminum

Emission Spectrum Aluminum.

Emission Spectrum Aluminum wall sculpture mixed media

Excerpt from “Aluminum”

Sodium: A highly reactive and light metal with distinctive properties. In its pure form, sodium is rarely encountered in practical applications due to its extreme reactivity with air and water. Instead, sodium is commonly found in compounds, such as sodium chloride (table salt). Sodium-based compounds are utilized in a wide range of applications, including food seasoning, water treatment, and as a fundamental component in various chemical processes.

Emission Spectrum Sodium Sodium Doublet

Emission Spectrum Sodium

Wall art emision espectra sodium doublet

Excerpt of “Sodium Doublet”

Hydrogen: It is the first element on the periodic table and is represented by the symbol "H." In its elemental form, hydrogen is a colorless, odorless gas. It is the lightest and most abundant element in the universe, making up a significant portion of stars and gas giants like our Sun and Jupiter. Hydrogen is also a fundamental component of water (H2O) and is commonly found in various compounds and molecules, making it a versatile and essential element in the world of chemistry and science.

The artwork is called "Almost Hydrogen" because the piece mimics the spectral colors of hydrogen, with a creative twist of eliminating blue and substituting red for orange.

Emission Spectrum Hydrogen

Emission Spectrum Hydrogen

Emission Spectrum Hydrogen wall scupture mixed media art

“Almost Hydrogen”

Vibranium: This is a fictional metal appearing in the Marvel universe (comics and movies). The pieces are called Vibranium when trying to explore random color combinations. Since the element is fictional, there is not a real spectra to adhere too, when creating the pieces.

Protactinium: With the symbol Pa and atomic number 91, is a dense, silvery-gray metal classified as a radioactive element. It is found in trace amounts in uranium and thorium ores. Due to its radioactivity and the fact that it is typically present in very small quantities, protactinium is not widely utilized in industrial or commercial applications. Instead, its primary significance lies in the realm of scientific research, particularly for researchers studying the behavior of radioactive elements and their applications in nuclear science.

Emission Spectrum Protactinium

Emission Spectrum Protactinium

Emission Spectrum Art Protactinium Sculpture mixed media

Close up of “Protactinium”

Beryllium: A lightweight, steel-gray, and brittle alkaline earth metal, is relatively rare in the Earth's crust, typically found in various minerals. However, despite its utility, caution is warranted in its handling due to its toxic nature. Beryllium and its compounds pose health risks, particularly when inhaled, leading to chronic beryllium disease, a serious lung condition. Consequently, strict regulations govern the handling of beryllium in industrial settings.

Moreover, beryllium's versatility extends to its use in alloys. It is often alloyed with other metals to enhance their properties. Beryllium copper, an exemplary alloy, exemplifies this practice. Recognized for its high strength, it finds application in electrical connectors, springs, and other scenarios where a blend of electrical conductivity and mechanical robustness is imperative.

The piece is called “Right Beryllium” because from the full spectral light of the element, only the colors from the right where used to create this piece.

Emission Spectrum Beryllium

Emission Spectrum Beryllium

Emission Spectrum Beryllium Art Sculpture

Close Up “Right Beryllium”

Actinium: A rare and radioactive element, is explored for its unique properties, including a faint glow in the dark due to its intense radioactivity. While limited in practical applications, Actinium contributes significantly to scientific research, particularly in neutron production and as a neutron source.

Emission Spectrum Actinium

Spectral light of elements art Actinium.

Close Up “Actinium”

In summary, this collection not only showcases the visual allure of the SPECTRAL LIGHT OF ELEMENTS but also bridges the gap between art and science, celebrating the unique characteristics of each element and their contributions to our understanding of the natural world.

All emission spectrum images extracted from “Atomic Line Spectra by Dr Alan Jircitano”. Associate Professor, Chemistry at Penn State University at Behrend. https://sites.google.com/view/linespectrabydralanjircitano/home

Read More
Events and Exhibitions sylvia Troconis Events and Exhibitions sylvia Troconis

“Hola Howdy Hello":  When A Reflection Of Color, Space, And Place Unite Two Worlds.

Step into a world where Sylvia Troconis’ color sculpture and Lisa Zinna's vibrant "color crazy" art converge in a captivating dialogue. This exhibit showcases their individual brilliance, along with a unique collaboration that emerged organically just a couple years ago.

Georgetown Art Center 816 S Main St, Georgetown, TX 78626

Show opens on Friday Nov 17 and ends Dec 22.

Gallery hours Tues-Sat 10a-6p, Sun 1p-5p, closed Mondays 

Reception on Saturday Dec 9, 4-6p

Artist talk on Sunday Dec 10, 2-3p

Step into a world where Sylvia Troconis’ color sculpture and Lisa Zinna's vibrant "color crazy" art converge in a captivating dialogue. This exhibit showcases their individual brilliance, along with a unique collaboration that emerged organically just a couple years ago.

Sylvia Troconis: The Sculptor of Discovery

Sylvia Troconis, originally from Venezuela, forms sculptures that blend modernist color-blocking with precision craftsmanship. Her art, currently influenced by space and astrophysics, evokes a sense of wonder and discovery. From 3D assemblages to installations, Troconis' work is a testament to creativity's power.

Close Up “Almost Hydrogen”, balmer serie spectral, emission spectrum hydrogen, mixed media wall sculpture.

Close Up “Almost Hydrogen”

Almost Hydrogen mixed media wall sculpture emission spectrum hydogen

“Almost Hydrogen”

Lisa Zinna: The Colorful Dreamweaver

Lisa Zinna creates photo and resin art that defies convention. With pastels and vibrant shades, she creates contemporary, smile-inducing works that intrigue and amaze. Her art, born from years of photography and digital exploration, invites questions and sparks curiosity.

Prolific Poppies. Lisa Zinna

Ocotillo Dreams. Lisa Zinna

The Collaboration: Where Boundaries Disappear

During the pandemic, these two artists merged their talents, resulting in a limited edition series titled "Familiarity of Place". Combining resin, photography, and laser-cut materials, their work features punchy colors and iconic Texan subjects in layered, depth-of-field sculptural constructions, invoking memories and nostalgia. Each piece becomes a conversation starter, weaving together stories of people's experiences.

“Terry Black’s Barbecue” Troconis + Zinna

"Hola Howdy Hello" celebrates the universal language of art, transcending borders and mediums. Join us on this artistic journey where "Howdy" is born from "Hello" and "Hola".

Read More
Interviews and Spotlights sylvia Troconis Interviews and Spotlights sylvia Troconis

Vibrant Austin: Exploring Art For the People Gallery

Nestled in the heart of Austin's South First Street, you'll discover Art For the People Gallery, a vibrant home to fine art and artisan creations.

Art For The People 1711 S.

Located at 1st Street Austin, TX 78704

Nestled in the heart of Austin's South First Street, you'll discover Art For the People Gallery, a vibrant home to fine art and artisan creations. At the helm of this fantastic space is Lynnie Goodman, Creative Director, who is a spirited, colorful, and vivacious woman who embodies the true Austin vibe.

"AFTP", a beacon of art and community, has been illuminating the local scene for almost a decade since its doors opened in December 2014. Deanna Worden, the driving force behind this initiative, previously dedicated her efforts to organizations such as "Art from the Streets" and "Mobile Loaves and Fishes," both committed to helping individuals facing housing insecurity. It was her experiences with these organizations that inspired the creation of "Art For The People Gallery".

Now, let's dive into a little Q&A with Lynnie:

 What sets your gallery apart from others in the area? 

The uniqueness lies in offering both a vibrant artisan market and an exquisite art gallery. We aim to make art accessible to everyone. Beyond fine art, we feature treasures like jewelry, ceramics, and glass art, all handcrafted by Austin's talented artisans. Prices start at just $4 for stickers and range up to the value of original artworks. Visitors to the gallery often seek to collect pieces created by local Austin artists while supporting a small business.

Steel Turtles Metal Art Sculptures by Bernardo Meza of Meza Metal Sculptures.

Can you describe the dynamic of the gallery? 

AFTP typically hosts five art openings each year, with each exhibition spanning 9-10 weeks. These exhibitions showcase works by their "core artists" as well as submissions from "Open Calls." To keep things exciting, we frequently rotate the displayed art, ensuring that returning visitors always find something fresh and captivating. Open calls offer a fantastic way to discover new artists and unique art pieces.

Cool Diamonds on Coal Dodecahedron by Rachael Goco

Do you have any memorable moments or success stories? 

One scenario is that visitors come in, learn about the artist and their art, express their intent to think it over, leave, and then, just a few minutes later, return to purchase the piece. After the sale, they head across the street for a margarita while AFTP wraps the art.

The best compliment we get is when people say that this is what they think, when they think about Austin, this cool and quirky space.

And…. we have our own greeting committee in the form of Tassel PomPom and Charm Charm Sparkle, two pugs that are sure to bring a smile to your face.

Free to Be by Raymond Allen. One of my favorite pieces of the new show.

 What's the most creative use of art materials you've seen recently? 

There's a striking collaboration piece by Janis Fowler and Noah Mcgowen titled "The Wounds You Cannot See". It's an acrylic gouache painting with a 3-D painted heart chamber and a rechargeable light-up LED matrix. The heart part lights up like a beating heart.

The beauty of Austin artists lies in their constant self-reinvention.

The Wounds You Cannot See by Janis Fowler and Noah Mcgowen.png

What's the gallery's theme song? 

It would be "We Will Rock You" by Queen or "Good Good Day" by Lady Bri, reflecting the fact that AFTP is a woman-owned and operated business, and every one of them is a queen deserving of their crowns.

Terry Black's Barbecue by Lisa Zinna + Sylvia Troconis

What goes on behind the scenes? 

All of us gallery mavens know to always wear comfy shoes and leggings because you never know what the day might have in store. Running a gallery is physically demanding, with tasks like tearing down and moving art and going up and down ladders. It's a whole different kind of hustle that often goes unnoticed.

Read More
Events and Exhibitions sylvia Troconis Events and Exhibitions sylvia Troconis

Title: An Artistic Odyssey: From "Hola Howdy Hello" to Blue Genie Bazaar and the Journey to Become a Certified Picture Framer

Greetings, fellow art enthusiasts! I invite you on an engaging artistic odyssey with me—a journey that encapsulates three distinct chapters of my creative life. From the vibrant halls of the Georgetown Art Center's "Hola Howdy Hello" exhibit to the enchanting realm of the Blue Genie Art Bazaar, and the rigorous pursuit of certification as a picture framer, this chronicle assures to be an exploration of artistry, inspiration, and expertise that blends a touch of playfulness with formal dedication.

Greetings, fellow art enthusiasts! I invite you on an engaging artistic odyssey with me—a journey that encapsulates three distinct chapters of my creative life. From the vibrant halls of the Georgetown Art Center's "Hola Howdy Hello" exhibit to the enchanting realm of the Blue Genie Art Bazaar, and the rigorous pursuit of certification as a picture framer, this chronicle assures to be an exploration of artistry, inspiration, and expertise that blends a touch of playfulness with formal dedication.

Hola Howdy Hello: Happening in November of 2023

An Artistic Showcase in the heart of picturesque Georgetown, Texas. A captivating artistic dialogue is about to unfurl at the "Hola Howdy Hello" exhibit. This showcase, carefully assembled over the course of a year and a half, has been the result of numerous meticulous planning sessions, personal profound reflections about the show artistic statement, and in-depth meetings with my friend and artistic partner, Lisa Zinna. We were going to call the show “Familiarity of a place” and it was only going to be about our collaboration pieces, however we thought that it would gave more context if viewers can see what we did separately, to understand how we converge.

"Hola Howdy Hello" is a jubilant celebration of the universal language of art—an exquisite fusion of diverse mediums and limitless creativity. It is an invitation to join us on a journey where "Howdy" effortlessly emerges from the heartfelt greetings of "Hello" and "Hola."

Stay tuned, I will write a post about it later.

Blue Genie Art Bazaar: Where Art Meets Holiday Magic

The adventure doesn't end there! As the "Hola Howdy Hello" exhibition gains momentum, I am thrilled to announce our participation in the Blue Genie Art Bazaar—an annual art extravaganza that opens its doors just before Black Friday and continues through Christmas Eve. Featuring the works of over 200 local and regional artists, it is the ideal destination for art enthusiasts seeking a dose of holiday magic.

Blue Genie Art Bazar located at 6100 Airport Blvd Ste C, Austin, TX 78752

A lot of artist an artisans showcasing their creations

We will be showing some great Troconis + Zinna pieces and also some tiny pieces, of limited edition of 100 per design (5” x 5” and 5”x7”) that we don’t sell anywhere else. Not even in this website.

What sets this event apart is its philanthropic spirit. A portion of every purchase supports the Make-A-Wish® foundation, making your art acquisition a gift that keeps on giving. Mark your calendars because from November 17th to December 24th, 2023, you are invited to indulge in a holiday shopping spree unlike any other.

The Certified Picture Framer Exam:

Amidst the whirlwind of artistry, I have embarked on a personal journey towards excellence by pursuing certification as a picture framer. This endeavor entails intensive study, including a comprehensive review of essential books, study guide, and active participation in engaging framing classes offered by the Professional Picture Framer Association (PPFA) https://www.ppfa.com/

There is a lot of information… who would have though?

To qualify for this exam, I have dedicated over 2 year of hands-on experience within the framing industry. The exam itself is a five-part challenge, covering various aspects of framing, from mathematics and preservation techniques to tools and techniques. It comprises 150 questions and spans a 3.5-hour timeframe. Now, I have to pass the test.

As I navigate this intricate web of creativity and a bit of expertise, I extend a warm invitation for you to join me on this enriching journey. Together, we shall explore the wonders of "Hola Howdy Hello," immerse ourselves in the enchanting realm of the Blue Genie Art Bazaar, and bear witness to my transformation into a certified picture framer. Let’s see how it goes COMPADRES!

Read More
Behind-the-Scenes sylvia Troconis Behind-the-Scenes sylvia Troconis

Crafting Connections: Lisa Zinna and Sylvia Troconis' Artistic Fusion Unveiled

In this behind-the-scenes peek, let me take you on the journey of artistic collaboration that Lisa Zinna and I, Sylvia Troconis, have been on. Situated in the vibrant art scene of Austin, Texas, our partnership has been an exploration that's broken the mold, letting our creative talents merge in a way that feels both genuine and grounded.

In this behind-the-scenes peek, let me take you on the journey of artistic collaboration that Lisa Zinna and I, Sylvia Troconis, have been on. Situated in the vibrant art scene of Austin, Texas, our partnership has been an exploration that's broken the mold, letting our creative talents merge in a way that feels both genuine and grounded.

The story starts with Lisa's talent for capturing moments with her camera. Her photos become the cornerstone of our project. When she finds a photo with an angle and composition that are just right, she edits the image to cut out the background and replaces it with a color to our liking and one that compliments the photo nicely.

As things unfold, my role kicks in as I trace in Adobe Illustrator and extract key parts from each photo, a process that captures the interesting parts of these images.

Using these digital blueprints, we turn to the Glowforge, which cuts these draftwood pieces. This step bridges the gap between digital and physical, bringing our vision to life.

With the draftwood cutouts ready, I step in, placing each photo cutout into its draftwood counterpart. This step blends the visual impact of the photographs with a tactile dimension, adding depth and texture to our combined effort.

I then bring in the "WHATABURGER" lettering, which I paint using an orange Posca marker. It is a personal touch that adds character to our collaborative piece.

Lisa's expertise comes into play as she delicately pours resin over our creation. This final touch adds a shine that ties everything together, giving our work a unified look and feel.

Imagine our excitement when our piece found a home in The Whataburger Museum of Art—a digital space that draws inspiration from the beloved Texas burger chain. These creations, born from our creative dance, stand as a living reminder of the wonder that unfolds when artistic paths intertwine.

Read More
Behind-the-Scenes sylvia Troconis Behind-the-Scenes sylvia Troconis

Unraveling Art's Boundaries: Celebrating Fiber Arts in My Sculptural Mixed Media Journey

In this post, I'm excited to share a glimpse into my artistic journey, exploring how the world of Fiber Arts has touched my own work in mixed media. As a visual artist from Caracas, Venezuela, now based in Austin, Texas, I look for (and find) inspiration almost everywhere.

I recently had the pleasure of diving into Katy Hessel's book, "The Story of Art Without Men," and it was a revelation that sparked a newfound appreciation for a particular feminist perspective in the art world.

In this post, I'm excited to share a glimpse into my artistic journey, exploring how the world of Fiber Arts has touched my own work in mixed media. As a visual artist from Caracas, Venezuela, now based in Austin, Texas, I look for (and find) inspiration almost everywhere.

I recently had the pleasure of diving into Katy Hessel's book, "The Story of Art Without Men," and it was a revelation that sparked a newfound appreciation for a particular feminist perspective in the art world.

The book took me on a captivating journey through the history of feminist art, and one particular aspect that resonated deeply with me was how feminist artists utilized the needle as a powerful tool of protest in the 1960s.

“The Story of Art Without Men,” by Katy Hessel.

Up until that era, Fiber Arts were often dismissed as a lesser, ‘decorative’ form of art, simply because, throughout history, it had been associated with domesticity and women. But these trailblazing artists in the 1960s courageously challenged the norms, pushing back against the notion that their art wasn't serious, genuine or even worthy of being considered ‘fine art.’

It was a turning point in art history when the MoMA held the first group exhibition dedicated to contemporary artistic weavers in 1969. This showcased the incredible talent and creativity in the Fiber Arts world, and I found myself drawn to the woven forms of artists like Lenore Tawny, a student of the New Bauhaus.

Using a needle in my own sculptural work.

The resilience of these artists in defying the devaluation of Fiber Arts resonates deeply with me, as it parallels the challenges I sometimes face in the world of mixed media sculpture.

My work delves into the realm of mixed media sculptural art, where I fuse various materials like wood, fiber and paint to create unique and expressive pieces.

I draw inspiration from the world around me, incorporating digital tools in my design process and employing precision tools and machinery to bring my visions to life.

In every piece I create, there's a dialogue between the materials, colors, and techniques, resulting in intricate and vibrant artworks.

A peek at the early stage of a work.

The feminist perspective I embrace celebrates the strength, creativity, and resilience of women artists throughout history. As I experiment with fiber elements in my sculptures, I pay homage to the rich tradition of Fiber Arts and the pioneering women who paved the way. Through my art, I aim to challenge stereotypes and break free from limiting definitions of what art can be.

At its core, my work invites viewers to explore and engage with each piece. It's an invitation to discover the wonder of my sculptures and the stories they tell. As you encounter my art, I hope you, too, experience a sense of discovery akin to that childlike wonder we all once had.

In my work, the materials I use often inspire new ways of creating.

Every fiber in my sculptures represents a thread of thought and a moment of inspiration. Just like the fearless artists before me, I weave my message into every piece, embracing the fiber of art and its limitless possibilities. I believe that art is a powerful tool for change.

So, as I continue on my artistic journey, I invite you to join me in keeping an open mind to how materials come together in a work of art, and how we think about works of art in the world. Let's defy expectations, challenge stereotypes, and embrace the power of art to shape our world.

Read More
Art in Public Spaces Elizabeth MacLean Art in Public Spaces Elizabeth MacLean

Sylvia Troconis' Art Exhibited at Austin Bergstrom International Airport

Not too long ago, I had the opportunity to exhibit my art at Austin Bergstrom International Airport. The airport's expansion development program has consistently brought Austin's vibrant arts scene to life. Inside the terminal, dedicated window displays showcase works from talented local artists. The airport's commitment to featuring Austin area talent aligns perfectly with the city’s creative spirit.

The artist, Sylvia Troconis, with her art installation at Austin Bergstrom International Airport.

Not too long ago, I had the opportunity to exhibit my art at Austin Bergstrom International Airport. Thanks to an invitation by Cory Hurless, the Art, Music, & Graphics manager at Austin Bergstrom International Airport, and Austin's Art in Public Places (AIPP) program, this proved to be an incredible experience.

The airport's expansion development program has consistently brought Austin's vibrant arts scene to life. Inside the terminal, dedicated window displays showcase works from local artists, including myself. The airport's commitment to featuring Austin area talent aligns perfectly with the city’s creative spirit.

Detail, Gallium

My constructive sculptures and mixed media elements found their place in one of the airport's busiest areas, amidst the hustle and bustle of travelers. The opportunity to showcase my art in such a prestigious local venue was truly an honor, and I'm grateful for the program's dedication to promoting local talent.

Detail, Carbon

Detail, Actinium

My works were on view at the Airport from March through August of 2022. I began working on the project in January of that year. My intention is always to amaze viewers and spark their curiosity, whether it's about scientific or historic subjects. I want to engage spectators with concepts that leave them eager to learn more and share their experiences.

This was also the case with this project. I began by studying the spectral lights of elements and colors that might work for each piece.

Conceptualizing the project.

Gathering raw materials.

That was followed by lots of sketching. Once I was clear on what I wanted to create, I began to work with the raw wood to create each sculpture, working in Austin’s largest nonprofit makerspace, Asmbly Makerspace.

Detail, Title of Artwork

The opportunity to share my art at Austin Bergstrom International Airport allowed me to reach a diverse and global audience. Exhibiting my art alongside other talented local artists was a gratifying experience. Our artworks became conversation starters, evoking memories and reflecting the vibrant spirit of Austin. The program's commitment to promoting local talent has had a positive impact on the airport's atmosphere and the local community.

I am immensely grateful for the chance to introduce travelers to my constructive sculptures.

In conclusion, the experience of exhibiting at Austin Bergstrom International Airport was a significant milestone in my artistic journey. These works have found a new home at University Health, a new San Antonio Women’s & Children’s Hospital, where they will be on permanent display.

I look forward to continuing to exhibit my art in ways that will inspire and connect with people from all walks of life. The magic of creativity and the wonders of discovery know no bounds, and I am grateful for the platform provided by this program to share my artistic vision with the world.

Read More