If it feels like there’s more creativity weaving its way into the Lake Travis tapestry, you’re correct. We’ve witnessed forward movement in the local art community and thanks to a new mural opportunity, it’s about to get even artsy-er.
Sharing artwork by local artists isn’t a new concept to the area. Our local libraries, activity centers, and civic organizations have been showcasing artists for years. LTL has written about local artists like Kelly Brynteson who created artwork for Mack, Jack & McConaughey and the Russell Collection Fine Art Gallery in the Oaks at Lakeway.
You have sculpture parks and the Hill Country Galleria benches. Plus, on May 20, Lakeway awarded TexARTS and the Lake Travis Film Festival $90,000 from its HOT coffers.
The art community has a hub at Hill Country Galleria thanks to places like Color Me Mine, Wythaus Art Gallery, The Hive, Contracommon, and Flip’N Art. And a brand new permanent installation is on its way that embraces the Keep Austin Weird vibe, even way out west.
Flip’N Art is flip’n awesome
Breaking out of the traditional shell is the main message local artists are showcasing. A great example of this is at Flip’N Art, a relatively new tenant at Hill Country Galleria. If you haven’t taken a stroll through the studio, we highly recommend it.
With a focus on “happy art, happy walls and happy prices,” the studio owner and artist, Chacasso (pictured above), brings an innovative business model to the Lake Travis (and Austin) art scene. His free spirit and creativity run wild throughout his studio with eye-catching artwork that spans every genre.
Together with his wife, Micah, this duo has given the artwork a voice that speaks to people who may not otherwise consider themselves art aficionados.
Not only can you purchase art, but you can also participate. Flip’N Art has events planned that are open to the public, fun and affordable:
Fluid Fridays – Acrylic Pouring Workshop
Every Friday, from 2-8 p.m.
Starting Friday, May 31 and continuing every Friday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m, Flip’N Art will be hosting acrylic pouring workshops. The studio will provide all materials needed to create three paintings, and the cost is $25 per person. No appointment needed and walk-ins are welcome.
Meet the Artist
Saturday, June 29 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Flip’N Art will be hosting a Meet the Artist event with the local artists who make up their Collective space. Guests will get to browse art pieces and enjoy snacks and refreshments. Artists like Chacasso (owner of Flip’N Art), Victor Ostrovsky, Lisa Chronister, and more, will be there to showcase their work.
The Hive is buzzing with talent
Another organization dedicated to art in the area is The Bee Cave Art Foundation that has a space in Hill Country Galleria called The Hive.
A few weeks ago, they presented their first ever Members of The Hive Exhibition. It featured the work of 40 of their talented Artist Members, alongside the Students of The Austin School for Performing and Visual Arts. Again, another example of giving art a voice that speaks to all ages.
There’s nothing common about Contracommon
Contracommon is a nonprofit at HCG that provides affordable studios to emerging artists. Their mission is to foster a sense of community in an inclusive way to go against the common.
Established by a group of artists across multiple disciplines, Contracommon strives to create an inclusive community where everyone’s voice is valid. Moreover, they offer members affordable studio spaces, workshops, and have a dedicated gallery space for members to share their work.
Mural artist entries being accepted through August 31
Hill Country Galleria has partnered with the Bee Cave Arts Foundation in search of an accomplished artist or artist team to design and paint a mural at 12601 Hill Country Blvd, Bee Cave Texas 78738, on the side of the Whole Foods Market building.
This would be a prominent and permanent installation on the main street of Hill Country Galleria. The mural would be 10 feet by 20 feet (subject to change), and the budget is dependent on the complexity of the artwork.
Artists are encouraged to base their design on (but not limited to) Bee Cave’s history, signature events, and physical environment as inspiration; however, the final designs must go beyond the simple visual representation of an object or event.
Those interested in applying must submit the following in a single PDF or Microsoft Word document to [email protected] with the subject line, “Call for mural artists application.”
- Cover page with name, mailing address, phone number, email address
- One-page narrative describing the concept and design of the proposed mural
- Sketches or visual representations of proposed concept (up to four)
- Itemized project budget
- A one-page resume or short biography
- 3-5 photographs or links to pictures of past murals
- Contact information for two references from past mural clients
How does art weave its way into your life in the Lake Travis area? Let us know in the comments section on our Facebook page or tag us in your favorite artists’ inspiration on Instagram @LakeTravisLifestyle
