“They smashed out the lanterns and burned down the barns…” Goofy and morbid “thrash-grass” is one way to describe Days N’ Daze, a local Houston band holding a record release show on Saturday, February 2 at Ballistics Skate House featuring eight bands and one poet. A table will also be set up for individuals to stop by and learn more about Houston Free Thinkers. Some of the performances to anticipate in addition to Days N’ Daze include: Dead Rabbits, Always Guilty, Alimanas and Lion Among Men. Look forward to side projects of Days N’ Daze Decathect, an electric  by ... Read More »

An artistic expression of images that capture the native perspective of the Mexican war on drugs will begin on Friday, February 1 at Fotofest. Cronicas will feature seven contemporary artists using their art as a voice speaking against the violent and devastating conflict. The exhibit will reference and uncover the decades-long battle,the effect it has on the people of Mexico, and how that, in turn, affects the Houston area due to its proximity to Mexico and the trade of drugs and guns. Jennifer Ward, curator of the exhibit, says, “The drug war has become part of contemporary Mexican life. This artwork reflects this ... Read More »

“Every human being is creative-it’s not a gift; it’s not a luxury; it’s an integral part of our cognitive make-up.  Because we call “creativity” by so many different names, we don’t always fully appreciate the full extent of its presence in our lives.  The arts belong back in schools because they’re among the effective, efficient, and powerful ways to nurture creativity.” According to Dr. Anthony Brandt, the integration of arts into school curriculum has become a modern-day civil rights issue. Dr. Brandt, Associate Professor of Composition and Theory at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, will be presenting the knowledge ... Read More »

“The life of a musician is truly a labor of love.”-Luther Rada Dubbed “The Hardest Working Band in Texas,” Luther and the Healers is a homegrown blues band that breathes the essential aspects of blues music. Luther and the Healers is set to perform at the Big Easy Social and Pleasure Club every Thursday night excluding the last Thursday of the month. Established in 1991, Luther and the Healers is Texas Blues at its finest. Their synchronized, swinging piano and guitar chords backed by a classic blues bass line perfectly complements Luther’s raspy lyrical styles. Made up of front man ... Read More »

Science and poetry intertwine with this year’s Prize Poets’ selection of writers. Two recipients of poetry’s legendary newcomers award, The Yale Prize for Younger Poets, will be debuted by Houston Public Library and Public Poetry with their annual Prize Poet’s showcase on Saturday January 12th. Fady Joudah won the prestigious award in 2024 with his book The Earth in the Attic, and Katherine Larson won in 2024 with Radial Symmetry. Each poet’s work reflects different aspects of style and theme in their writings. A son of Palestinian refugees, Joudah’s style is more of a narrative, story-telling perspective with themes varying ... Read More »

Martin Luther King, Jr. represents the utmost expression and fight for freedom and acceptance for all people; and a celebration seems only fit to pay homage to this legendary rights activist. Like his raw expression of personal liberties, a showcase of urban street art presented by UP Art Studio will give necessary tribute to MLK on Saturday January 12th. When asked why people should come out and support the art presented there, Noah and Elia Quiles responded, “To support local art and potentially gain a new found appreciation for something unexpected.” UP Art Studio is an underground art gallery that ... Read More »

“A Nazi-hunting thriller writhing with double and triple-crosses and a supremely colourful cast.” –Metro (UK) On Tuesday January 8, one of Houston’s bookstore gems, Murder by the Book, welcomes crime novelist Stuart Neville for a book signing and discussion on his latest novel Ratlines, a story set in Ireland 1963 where Nazis are harbored post-WWII. Neville, an eclectic Irish artist, premieres his fourth novel, Ratlines, with a worldwide tour. His vivid details of vindictive crimes have awed crowds since his short stories began being published in a number of notable magazines such as the UK’s ThugLit.com. Neville’s burst onto the scene ... Read More »

By: Erin Dyer Local artist Skeez181 will host his inaugural all sculpture show alongside fellow friend and artist TKNY this coming up Friday, October 26 from 7pm-12am at Chuntaro Jones Studio. Come out to see the exhibition, Escondidas (“In Hiding”), which will showcase 13 of Skeez181’s polymer clay hand-sculpted masks. Santos Guerrero aka TKNY will also be displaying some of his new art, drawings, and prints in the show. Let it be noted that this show is one night only, admission is free! Complimentary refreshments will be served while supplies last– make sure to bring your 21+ ID to receive alcoholic ... Read More »

By: Erin Dyer In 1969, Houston art catalysts John and Dominique de Menil founded the Rice Media Center and the Rice Museum, known as the “Art Barn,” both of which still remain an important and inspirational part of the university’s campus. Upon formation of the Media Center and Museum, the de Menil couple worked with a goal to unite the community by way of education, collaboration, and communication between people of different backgrounds and varying circumstances. Rice University now proudly presents Raid the Archive: The de Menil Days at Rice. This exhibition, curated by John Sparagana and Katia Zavistovski, is ... Read More »

By: Erin Dyer The Mural Project works towards making a positive impact in our city by bringing a sense of community and togetherness to areas of Houston through the creation and display of murals. The Mural Project’s first group art show will open at Kingspoint Graffiti Mecca & Art Space this Saturday, September 22, from 5-8pm. This art space, also known as KINGSPOINT, or “The Mullet,” is Houston’s largest graffiti mecca and art space and is run by Southern Artists Foundation, a nonprofit organization that works to help autistic children. In the past 18 months over 80 global contributing artists ... Read More »