In the heart of our vibrant community, creativity is alive and flourishing. In this feature, we spotlight three local artists who bring unique visions to life, each contributing to the rich culture of our area. From the delicate craftsmanship of blown glass to thought-provoking mixed media and beyond, these artists express their stories through their work. Join us as we explore their journeys, artistic influences, and the inspiration that drives their creations, offering a glimpse into the creative pulse that makes our local art scene so special.
Gladys Roldan-de-Moras
Gladys Roldan-de-Moras, a world-renowned international artist, has lived in San Antonio for over 30 years, drawing deep inspiration from her love of Spanish culture. Passed down by her maternal grandfather, a proud charro who helped promote Charreria as Mexico's national sport, her heritage shapes much of her work. Known for her vibrant and dramatic style, Gladys has earned numerous prestigious awards, including the 2023 Frederic Remington Painting Award and the 2022 Patrons' Choice Award at the Eiteljorg Museum. Her art has been featured in renowned publications such as Fine Art Connoisseur and Architectural Digest.
Gladys's paintings celebrate Spanish culture, depicting Mexican escaramuzas gallantly riding horses, Flamenco señoritas in extravagant Andalusian dresses, and classic damsels in intimate, delicate poses. Her work captures the passion and grace of these cultural icons, blending tradition with contemporary western art. Her pieces are featured in many significant private and public collections globally.
Ruth Bushman
Ruth Bushman, the talented glassblowing artist behind Caliente Hot Glass, has carved a unique path in the art world. Originally studying architecture, Ruth’s creative spirit led her to glassblowing, where she found herself immersed in an art form that combines technical skill with emotional depth. Over time, she became captivated by the process of transforming simple materials, like scrap glass, into beautiful, meaningful works of art.
Her signature Transformation Orbs invite people to reflect and engage with their own personal experiences. These small, interactive orbs can be filled with handwritten notes, which can later be memorialized in glass, symbolizing both the fragility and permanence of human connection. Ruth’s work is rooted in the belief that art transcends the physical piece itself—it’s about fostering relationships and sharing vulnerability with the world around us.
Ruth is also influenced by her partner, Glen Andrews II, a fellow glassblower and philosophical artist. Together, they run the hot shop, where Ruth assists in creating stunning glass pieces. Through their partnership, Ruth has learned valuable lessons in both art and life, including the importance of balance, resilience, and listening to the materials at hand. As she continues to explore new techniques, Ruth remains dedicated to sustainability, incorporating found objects and vintage fabrics into her creations.
Her passion for glassblowing, along with her commitment to sustainability and human connection, has helped Ruth establish herself as a distinctive voice in the glass art world. Her work serves as a reminder that art is not just about creating something beautiful—it’s about creating something that connects people to one another, and to the world around them.
Yuli Chang
Yuli Chang's journey into the world of pottery is one that bridges both passion and practicality. As a child, she was captivated by the artistry of her mother and sister, but it wasn’t until years later that she decided to follow her creative instincts. A successful career in corporate finance initially defined her life, but the lure of pottery eventually won out. Making the bold decision to transition to full-time artistry, Yuli found herself deeply engaged in her craft, which she says now reflects her ongoing evolution.
Her work is profoundly influenced by her environment—living in San Antonio provides endless inspiration with its vivid colors, lush parks, and surrounding nature. The greens and blues of the local landscape are often mirrored in her pieces, while touches of pink and red reflect the vibrancy of the city. These elements come together to form a rich tapestry of influences that shape her creations.At the heart of her work is a dedication to ceramic clay, particularly through wheel throwing and sculpting. While she enjoys a variety of pottery forms, teapots hold a special place in her heart, deeply tied to her Taiwanese roots. For Yuli, making teapots is a way to connect with her heritage, as well as to her ongoing growth as an artist.
For Yuli, pottery is much more than an artistic pursuit—it’s a journey of constant exploration. As she molds each piece, she sees it as a reflection of her personal and professional growth. “My work is about growth and exploration, both artistically and personally,” she explains. Each piece is not just a vessel or decorative object; it represents a moment of change, a new stage in her artistic evolution. Through the struggles between dream and reality, Yuli’s pottery carries the story of her own growth—a journey that continues to unfold, one piece at a time.
Dusty Saw Designs
Dusty Saw Designs is more than just a small family business—it’s a testament to the passion, dedication, and craftsmanship of its founders, Dusty and Rocio. Specializing in custom wood wall art, Dusty Saw Designs brings your personal photos or ideas to life in the form of unique, handcrafted wooden creations. Whether it's a family portrait, a company logo, or a custom plaque, Dusty and Rocio pour their hearts into every piece, ensuring it becomes a cherished work of art.
The duo’s work extends beyond personalized art to include custom hardwood furniture, hand-turned wood bowls, cutting boards, hardwood boxes, and handcrafted urns. Each item is made with care using local materials sourced from around San Antonio, including wood from nearby trees. The couple’s craftsmanship is also deeply embedded in the community, working closely with local departments such as the San Antonio Police Department, Austin PD, and Homeland Security to create custom plaques for first responders. Their partnership with Lackland Air Force Base further emphasizes their commitment to serving those who serve.
At the heart of Dusty Saw Designs is the couple’s dedication to creating one-of-a-kind wood art that tells a story. Dusty explains, “We work with each customer to ensure their vision becomes a timeless keepsake. Our goal is to make something that lasts for generations, a piece that can be passed down as a family treasure.” This personal touch extends to every project, whether it’s a unique wall art piece or a custom-designed piece of furniture. Dusty and Rocio’s vision is simple yet powerful—to create art that lasts, art that’s meaningful, and art that’s made with love. For them, it’s not just about wood and tools, but about connecting with their community and making a lasting impact.