The Lufkin Art Guild Spring 2025 Art Show kicked off on a bright Monday morning at the Kurth Memorial Library, filling the space with a blend of talent spanning generations. From junior high students taking their first steps into the art world to seasoned artists with decades of experience, the show had a little bit of everything. I was honored to be part of it, entering 3 of my photographs:

The Playful Catch: an image of the statute of a boy catching a frog from the Rose Garden in Tyler, Texas; a female cardinal perched on a branch in my backyard in Nacogdoches, Texas; and a shot of Joe Cuellar performing live in Lufkin, Texas during the 2025 Art Walk.

I participated in their Fall 2024 Art Show and was in Category III (Emerging) and was told that I could always go up and never backwards. I had initially wanted to go to Category II (Established), but there was a computer glitch and instead of going into II, I jumped into Category I (Accomplished) and since I couldn’t go backwards I just went with it. Here were my photos waiting to be hung with everyone else’s.

Walking through the exhibit, I marveled at the variety of pieces on display – oil paintings capturing East Texas landscapes, intricate wood carvings, delicate watercolors, and striking black-and-white photography. It was inspiring to see so many artists come together, each contributing their unique vision and craft. The camaraderie among the guild members was evident, and I felt immense gratitude for everyone who worked tirelessly to make this event possible. Without their dedication, this showcase would not have been the success it was.

As the week went on, the show drew in art lovers, curious visitors, and even a few unexpected guests. Joe Cuellar himself walked into the library, with his girlfriend. He had no idea that I had entered a photo of him playing during the Art Walk. His expression was priceless – pure shock and delight as he stood there, staring at himself frozen in time on display. His girlfriend had posted it about the experience on her Facebook page with him tagged in it and I happened to see it and save the photo. It’s not everyday the photo you take is actually seen by the musician himself.

On Friday, a kind lady had fallen in love with my statue photography and before she left, she had purchased it. I couldn’t have been more thrilled to know it had found a home with someone who truly appreciated it.

The results of the Art Show:

These ribbons were more than I could have hoped for. I left the show with my heart full, grateful for the experience, the connections, and the inspiration that surrounded me. The Lufkin Art Guild had once again brought the community together through creativity. I can’t wait to do it all over again in the fall!