The Arts, Unveiled

Houston's underground art scene, larger-than-life murals, home galleries, museum staff secrets, and more. Plus: A trip to Sam Houston National Forest, a smashburger showdown, extracurricular options, and the legacy of Casa Ramirez.

In this issue:

Arts & Culture

Home Is Where the Art Is

Houstonians Are Opening Up Their Homes to Emerging Artists

Home-based galleries are creating community in the art world by giving lesser-known local artists the opportunity to showcase their work.

09/14/2023 By Daniel Renfrow

Public Art

Houston’s Latest Murals Tell the Story of the City

In the past five years, new public artworks have beautified neighborhoods and inspired us to stop and look.

09/13/2023 Photography by Anthony Rathbun By Emma Balter

Alt Mags

Zine Fest Houston's Nebulous History Is All Part of Its Legacy

It all started in Hermann Park 30 years ago. Today, the importance of the self-publishing art form endures in the city.

09/12/2023 By Daniel Renfrow

Art Power Couple

The Love Story of These Two Houston Artists Is Full of Whimsy

JooYoung Choi and Trenton Doyle Hancock use their shared vision to create wildly imaginative (and separate) comic book–inspired creative universes.

09/11/2023 By Meredith Nudo

Wildest Dreams

How Project Row Houses Transformed Houston’s Third Ward

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the nonprofit is way more than its row house–style art galleries.

09/08/2023 By Jennifer Stewart

Art for All

Houston’s Cultural Institutions Tackle Art Accessibility

From free museums to linguistic diversity, these organizations are paving the way to make art more inclusive.

09/07/2023 By Geneva Diaz

Behind the Scenes

Meet the Museum Workers Who Make Houston’s Arts Scene What It Is

From docents to the social media team, it takes a village to keep the city’s cultural institutions thriving.

09/06/2023 By Geneva Diaz and Emma Balter

El Legado de los Muertos

Casa Ramirez’s Ode to Latino Culture Is as Vibrant as Ever

More than three years after Macario Ramirez’s passing, the Mexican folk art store in the Heights is a testament to the enduring power of art, love, community, and his wife, Chrissie Dickerson Ramirez.

09/05/2023 By Geneva Diaz

Breaking Band

This One Band Shows How Interconnected Houston's Music Scene Is

Five separate bands can be formed by reshuffling the members of Ancient Cat Society.

08/16/2023 By Daniel Renfrow

Bayougraphy

Richard Bado Will Convince You Opera Is for Everyone

The chorus director reflects on his 35 years at Houston Grand Opera.

07/05/2023 By Elisabeth Carroll Parks

Eat & Drink

Battle of the Burgers

Which Houston Smashburger Reigns Supreme?

From Trill Burgers to Burger Bodega, we try four different smashburgers to crown the winner.

07/17/2023 By Daniel Renfrow

Past and Future

A New Restaurant in Kemah Seeks to Decolonize Indigenous Cuisines

Th Prsrv takes diners on a 4,000-year culinary journey through Thai and Native American flavors.

07/12/2023 By Daniel Renfrow

Big Moves

What 8th Wonder’s Sale Means for the Houston Brewery

The beer’s not going anywhere, but the acquisition by Bayou City Hemp Company means business for its cannabis projects.

06/13/2023 By Geneva Diaz

Health & Wellness

Best in Care

Houston’s Top Doctors

In need of a medical specialist? Here are Houston's best cardiologists, pediatricians, gynecologists, and more, as chosen by their peers.

09/17/2024 By Houstonia Staff

Home & Real Estate

Remodel

Building a Dream Home on a Houston Bayou

A local attorney designed a smart, serene escape from the hustle and bustle of a busy Oak Forest road.

05/16/2023 By Melissa Dalton

News & City Life

Friday Q & A

Artist Serotonin Brings a Good Dose of Happiness to Houston

Through music, fashion, and more, the multidisciplinary artist just wants to “make the collective experience of life more bearable.”

05/19/2023 By Geneva Diaz

Travel & Outdoors

Deep in the Heart

Our Favorite Caves in Texas to Go Spelunking (Yes, It’s a Thing)

Explore the natural underworld full of bats, stunning formations, aquifers, chambers, and prehistoric fossils.

09/15/2023 By Geneva Diaz

Happy Camper

The Only Guide You’ll Need to Sam Houston National Forest

This beautiful park is the best-kept secret for Houstonians who want to connect with nature.

09/07/2023 By Geneva Diaz

Hidden Gems

The San Antonio Weekend Guide You Never Thought You Needed

Go beyond the River Walk on your next trip to the Alamo City.

08/17/2023 By Ana Garcia