When Jason and Donna Wallerstein left Florida for the Texas Hill Country, they stepped into a landscape that would redefine their creative journey.
Donna always knew she’d want to settle down in Texas, and when the opportunity arose, it was a natural step toward their dream life. Compared to the small town they were living in, Austin offered a vibrant hub of art, music, and subcultures.
“Moving from Florida to Texas has definitely changed my art influences in a multitude of ways,” says Jason. “In general, nature and animals have always been a driving force in the work that I produce, and simply being in a different area, those things really move the needle on my creativity.”
“The rolling hills and critters that roam our area are so fun to see because they are so different from South Florida,” says Donna. “I think that the excitement of these animals’ foreignness to us has made us curious. This child-like excitement of seeing a roadrunner cross our path or an armadillo waddle by has made both Jason and me fall in love with Cedar Park.”
When they first arrived, Donna transformed an outdoor shed into a fully functional art studio to support her husband’s passion. Beyond giving him a space to create, the couple knew they wanted to use their business, BrunkyArt, to uplift the artistic community and give back to the natural world that inspires them.
“Growing up, my aspirations were either to be an artist or a park ranger,” says Jason. “Caring about nature enriches our lives so beautifully. Whatever I can do to protect animals and our natural surroundings, I’m 100% for it!”
As graduates of the prestigious Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, the Wallersteins understand the importance of funding the visual arts. They now dedicate themselves to art education, while supporting the animal rescues and nature centers that fuel Jason’s style.
“I have the utmost respect for artists who do it all themselves. Aligning my business with other local businesses that are established and have an excellent reputation has been the best decision to help grow BrunkyArt,” says Donna. “Allowing Jason the freedom to be creative without having to do all the marketing, finances, and behind-the-scenes stuff is the most fulfilling part of my role.”
Donna also handles planning BrunkyArt’s appearances. One event that Jason is especially honored to be involved with is the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar, a longtime favorite for both artists and collectors. Another tremendous opportunity has been getting to design a label for Still Austin Whiskey Co.’s Designer Reserve Series, an exclusive release that sold all 1,000 bottles in just four minutes.
“Being an artist at Blue Genie is also one of those things that can put you on the map. When I’m at art festivals, people often say, ‘I know you from Blue Genie!’” says Jason. “It’s just wonderful that there are these areas where you can really establish your presence in Austin. Blue Genie is one of those, and I am proud to be a part of such a long-lasting art institution.”
“A driving force behind creating this business has been wanting to share Jason’s artwork with everyone, young and old. The coolest spots BrunkyArt can be found are our stickers on kids’ water bottles and bicycles, as well as customers’ walls in their homes or offices,” says Donna. “It brings me such joy, and I am so happy that people love my husband’s art as much as I do.”
See more of Jason Wallerstein’s art by visiting: brunky.com
Upcoming BrunkyArt Events
- June 28th: Texas Roller Derby at Travis County Expo Center
- August 31st: Texas Roller Derby at Palmer Events Center
- September 27th: PrintAustin’s Print Rodeo at Central Machine Works
- October 1st - 31st: Halloween display on Russet Valley Drive