Peeking through the pines and sprinkled across our neighborhoods, The Woodlands is home to one of the largest public art collections in the state of Texas. The art in The Woodlands is a reflection of the diverse community, that desires to surround itself with works from artists from around the world.
Over 15 years ago, The Woodlands Arts Council (TWAC) was founded to provide regional, cultural and educational enrichment opportunities that encourage, support and promote the performing and visual arts. The nonprofit’s primary goal is to create a strong and vital arts presence in the area.
Jenny Carattini-Wright, who has served The Woodlands Arts Council in a variety of positions, since it’s inception, took the helm of the organization as its Executive Director in 2019. During her tenure, she has led the team in ranking among the top five arts festivals in the country.
This year, The Woodlands Arts festival pivoted to an interactive online format to celebrate their 15th anniversary in October. The festival was transformed into a virtual weekend filled with live talks, panel discussions and virtual booths that allowed attendees to shop from over 100 juried local and national artists. Like Edward Alton from Cypress, TX who makes indoor and outdoor Crystal Water Fountains and Energy Gardens for luxury homes.
Even though the festival has ended, the artist marketplace will continue to be open through December and you can shop unique artwork directly through the TWAC website.
Jenny Carattini-Wright said she and others affiliated with the council are also excited to continue the Art Benches project this year. Four new and unique Art Benches were unveiled on October 7 at a celebration attended by artists and underwriters. This brings the total Art Benches in The Woodlands to twenty-four. The four new art benches are placed along The Woodlands Waterway.
This year, to commemorate the 15th Anniversary of The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival, TWAC awarded one winner a $15,000 scholarship, in addition to others. The winner of this outstanding honor is Rylee Hollis of The Woodlands College Park High School.
Awarding art scholarships to talented students is one of the organization’s keycontributions to the future of the arts in our community. The board and staff are dedicated to keeping this worthwhile program going strong. “It is our mission and legacy to encourage arts education and to support emerging artists in everything we do." said Maria Holmes, president of the TWAC board.
From the award-winning Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival to public art installations and the year-round community and educational outreach programs, the arts council has one primary goal. Making our community better, Because Art Matters!