For years, I have curated a weekly list of art events for friends, neighbors, and family members. Doing this is solely a passion project for me -- I like to keep a list of what I really want to see. If you miss an opening at a museum or gallery, check the calendar on my website and visit during the venue's regular operating hours. ~ Melissa Richardson Banks

THU 10.12.2023

🎨 OPENING RECEPTION 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM “David Olivant | Confessions of a Rodent Station Master” exhibition on view thru December 8, 2023 at Houston Christian University Contemporary Art Gallery (University Academic Center, Building 18, 7502 Fondren Rd., Houston, 77074). This new series of mixed-media works on paper invite viewers to adopt the mindset of the archeologist. 

🎨 OPENING RECEPTION 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM “Platforms + Tents” Series Installations at Rice University’s Provisional Campus Facilities (on Loop Rd. across from Robert R. Herring Hall, Houston 77005). Works by Devin Kenny, Preetika Rajgariah, Kenneth Tam, and Sarah Welch respond to the communities, histories, and environments that bridge the campus and the Houston community.

🎨 ARTIST TALK 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM “The Iconic Portrait Strand | Nestor Topchy in Conversation with Timothy Morton” at The Menil Collection (Main Building; 1533 Sul Ross St., Houston 77006).

🎨 ARTIST RECEPTION 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM “Masumi Kataoka | Out of Longing” exhibition on view thru November 3, 2023 in the Fine Arts Center Gallery at Houston Community College-Central (3517 Austin St., Houston 77004). New work by the artist inspired by mythical creatures and religious symbolism. 

FRI 10.13.2023

🎨 ART OPENING 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM “Lauren Moya Ford: Green Thumb" exhibition on view thru January 15, 2024 at Jardín (2608 Dunlavy St., Houston 77006). These vibrant monotypes explore color, texture, and the magic of being in the moment.

SAT 10.14.2023

🎨 OPENING CELEBRATION + BLOCK PARTY 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM “The Founders Round” exhibitions on view thru February 18, 2024 at Project Row Houses (2521 Holman St., Houston 77004). Seven Art House exhibitions feature works by founding artists James Bettison, Bert Long, Jr., Jesse Lott, Rick Lowe, Floyd Newsum, Bert Samples, and George Smith. A block party follows porch talks by artists and curators.

🎨 ARTIST RECEPTION 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM “DREAM DREAM DREAM | Carlos Donjuan” on view at Nicole Longnecker Gallery (1440 Greengrass Dr., Houston 77008). After a series of painful losses that literally sapped color from his life, the artist introduces his latest body of grayscale drawings and paintings. Donjuan has been collected by Cheech Marin since 2009. This is a "don't miss" show!

💃 FASHION SHOW 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM “Ethereal Blooms | Alvin Alan” couture collection premiere at Sabine Street Studios (1907 Sabine St., Houston, TX 77007). Free tickets may be sold out, but walkups welcomed, space permitting.

SAT 10.14.2023 + SUN 10.15.2023

🎨 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM Bayou City Art Festival at Sam Houston Park in Downtown Houston (1000 Bagby St., Houston 77002). This two-day juried art festival features work for sale by over 300 artists. Purchase tickets online in advance only ($20 general admission; $75 one-day VIP pass; $120 weekend VIP pass, and free for kids ages 12 and under): https://www.bayoucityartfestival.com

All events are subject to change without notice. Please check with the venue or the organizer of an event to ensure that it is taking place as promoted and scheduled.

OUR DOCUMENTARY FILM WAS ACCEPTED INTO DTLA FILM FESTIVAL

IT'S OUR WORLD PREMIERE: My team's documentary short film about artist and photographer Luis C. Garza was selected as an "Official Selection" of the DTLA Film Festival, which takes place in Los Angeles, November 1-5, 2023.

SCREENING IN LOS ANGELES: Our film RAZÓN DE SER: Luis C. Garza is part of the Special Shorts Program: Latin/Latinx Film Series at LA Live’s Regal Theater on Saturday, November 4, 2023. The screening starts at 5:00 PM and includes five short films, including ours (about an hour and a half total running time). Tickets are $20 in advance and at the door.

SUPPORT OUR WORK! We are now working to produce a feature-length version of our 15-minute short film. Your purchase of our exhibition catalog "The Other Side of Memory: Luis C. Garza" helps. Buy a copy today, and if you plan to be in Los Angeles on Saturday, November 4, we'll even throw in a free $20 ticket so you can attend our screening.

FOR DETAILS: Visit my website.