IN SITU Art Club gathered at the home of Silvia Zárate for an evening of art, conversation, and discovery.

The evening began with a preview of our upcoming journey to Mérida, with a look at the program, including the Mérida Biennial, studio visits, and encounters with artists and collectors.

Silvia then welcomed us into her personal collection, sharing the stories behind the works and offering a glimpse into her approach to collecting.

Bringing together Mexican and international artists, the collection reflects a wide range of interests, from memory and identity to urban life, nature, and human connection. Highlights included Adam Wiseman’s photograph of the Edificio Chihuahua, Carlos Amorales’ exploration of art and technology, and Marco Rountree Cruz’s playful intervention on a vintage map of Mexico City. Works by Adrián White, Melanie Smith, Javier Otaola, Pablo Martínez Zárate, Andrea Tejeda, Juana Subercaseaux, Tezontle, and Javier Marín offered further perspectives, alongside pieces by Eduardo Chillida and Anish Kapoor.

A warm and engaging evening, filled with personal stories and thoughtful exchanges, and a wonderful introduction to the artists and conversations that will accompany us on our upcoming journey to Mérida.

IN SITU Art Club members enjoyed a private visit to OPERA Gallery in Houston’s River Oaks District, where Gallery Director Gregory Lahmi introduced the gallery’s remarkable collection.

The visit featured works by modern masters Marc Chagall, Jean Dubuffet and Pablo Picasso. A memorable highlight offered members the chance to wear a piece by Chagall, bringing them into closer contact with the artist’s poetic imagination.

The exploration continued with works by Texas artists Lovie Olivia, Eric DePan, Rick Lowe and Mark Flood, reflecting the breadth of Houston’s contemporary art scene. Members also discovered sculptures by Manolo Valdés, whose reinterpretations of classical forms bridge art history and contemporary practice.

Beyond the gallery, four monumental sculptures by Valdés offered a striking encounter with art in the public spaces of River Oaks District, extending the afternoon’s exploration beyond the gallery walls.

We had the pleasure of sharing a great moment at the beautiful Josh Pazda Hiram Butler Gallery, where our members discovered the captivating work of contemporary artist Martha Tuttle. Through her exploration of natural materials, textures, and organic forms, Tuttle creates evocative works that blur the boundaries between painting, sculpture, and textile, inviting us to reflect on the relationship between the natural world and artistic expression.
The event continued with Alesa Boyle, co-founder of Trois Crayons and Studiolo, who guided us through an extraordinary selection of works presented across the gallery’s two spaces. From delicate pencil drawings and expressive compositions in gouache to luminous watercolors and other works on paper, we explored the remarkable versatility of drawing as an artistic medium.
Spanning centuries of artistic creation, the selection offered a fascinating journey from 19th-century works to more contemporary practices. We encountered the enduring legacy of masters such as Edgar Degas, J.M.W. Turner, and Henry Moore, alongside the innovative approaches of modern and contemporary artists, each revealing the unique possibilities of line, color, and gesture.
Through Alesa’s expertise and thoughtful insights, we gained a deeper appreciation for the history of works on paper and the extraordinary craftsmanship behind each piece. It was a memorable experience celebrating the timeless art of drawing, the dialogue between generations of artists, and the enduring beauty of works on paper.

In collaboration with PAC Residency, Paola Creixell, MIRA, and In Situ Art Club, we had the pleasure of gathering our members for an exceptional evening in the beautiful setting of PAC’s artist residency.
The evening offered a unique opportunity to discover the work of two remarkable artists, Teresa Serrano and Andrea Corral, whose artistic practices sparked thoughtful conversations and new perspectives among our guests.
The gathering was also marked by inspiring remarks from Paola Creixell and Lorraine, who introduced the missions and programs of MIRA and In Situ Art Club, highlighting their upcoming presence in Paris during Latin American art week. Their presentations offered valuable insight into the initiatives connecting artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts across the international art scene.
The evening continued at PAC Art House, where we had the privilege of meeting Simone Coscarelli, curator of the exhibition. Through her curatorial perspective and insights into the works on view, she offered our members a deeper understanding of the exhibition and the artistic practices it brought together.
It was a memorable evening celebrating contemporary art, meaningful encounters, and the connections that bring our creative communities together across borders.

We had the privilege of sharing an exceptional evening with Lisa Volpe, Curator of Photography, Ben McBride, Assistant Curator of Photography, and Jason Dibley, Collections Manager for Prints, Drawings, and Photographs at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
Through historical insights and thoughtful conversations, we explored an extraordinary selection of works from the prestigious Anne Wilkes Tucker Photography Study Center.
Spanning the very beginnings of photography to contemporary voices, the collection took us on a remarkable journey through the medium's evolution. We discovered the groundbreaking work of William Henry Fox Talbot, Guillaume Duchenne de Boulogne, and Julia Margaret Cameron, alongside influential masters such as Gordon Parks and Robert Frank, while also exploring the work of artists including Eliza Brightwen, Alphonse Eugène Hubert, and contemporary Ghanaian photographer Carlos Idun-Tawiah.
With their combined expertise, Lisa, Ben, and Jason brought each photograph to life, offering curatorial perspectives, historical context, and behind-the-scenes insights into the care and stewardship of the museum's collection.

What a privilege it was to visit the backstage of Jones Hall, home of the Houston Symphony.
We discovered the hidden world behind the stage—dressing rooms, rehearsal spaces, and the intricate technical areas that make each performance possible.
Standing just behind the stage revealed how sound, space, and precision come together to create such powerful live experiences.
A fascinating glimpse into the unseen teamwork and artistry behind every concert.

Our members enjoyed a beautiful guided visit to Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens, the former home of philanthropist Ima Hogg.
As we explored the elegant historic house, we discovered an exceptional collection of American furniture, paintings, ceramics, silver, and textiles dating from the 17th to the 19th century. The docent’s commentary brought the collection to life and offered wonderful insight into the history, craftsmanship, and stories behind the objects.
Surrounded by the beauty of the gardens, the visit was both inspiring and enriching — a lovely immersion into American art, history, and design.

We were fortunate to spend an intimate evening with Judy Nyquist, uncovering the depth and character of her treasured collection.
As Judy beautifully said, “Trust your eye, and buy what feeds your soul.” This philosophy is evident throughout her magnificent home, where she and Scott Nyquist have chosen works guided by instinct and passion.
The evening was especially enriching, as Judy’s perspective as an art historian and curator brought each piece to life.
We explored sculptures, paintings, and writings—ranging from celebrated masterpieces to works by emerging artists, including remarkable talents from Texas
It was truly fascinating to hear Judy share the stories behind these works.
We were also delighted in discovering a remarkable selection of artist books, including works by Tauba Auerbach and an exquisitely hand-stitched book by Candice Hicks.
The evening left us inspired, not only by the beauty and diversity of the collection but also by Judy’s generosity in sharing her knowledge, insights, and passion for art. It was a rare and memorable experience that reminded us of the joy of seeing the world through an artist’s eye.

The offices of Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP came alive for a special Art & Conversation evening, bringing together collectors, professionals, and art enthusiasts for an intimate encounter with Houston-based artists Pam Soileau, Pothik Chatterjee, Tatiana Escallon, and Grayson Chandler.
Guests moved through the transformed offices, viewing two selected works from each artist while enjoying a curated cocktail reception. The evening unfolded as an open, engaging dialogue, with artists sharing insights into their creative processes and guests encouraged to ask questions, exchange impressions, and connect directly with the creators.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our private tour and cocktail reception! Guests enjoyed an intimate exploration of works by Jillian Conrad, Tony Feher, Vernon Fisher, Shana Hoehn, Matt Kleberg, Roy Lichtenstein, Matt Magee, Kate Shepherd, Nestor Topchy, and Robert Wilson.
The evening included a special visit to the Hiram Butler Cottage and his private collection, offering a rare glimpse into one of Houston’s most remarkable art holdings. Guests also had the pleasure of sharing cocktails with Josh Pazda and Jillian Conrad, who provided fascinating insights into their artistic journeys and inspirations.

The weather was perfect—as only Houston in December can be—making the evening even more enjoyable. It was a memorable event connecting with our vibrant community of art lovers, exploring exceptional works, and enjoying intimate conversations in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

In Situ Art Club members got to spend a truly special moment with the amazing artist duo Hillerbrand + Magsamen (that’s Stephan Hillerbrand and Mary Magsamen). The conversation took place inside their retrospective exhibition, nothing is precious, everything is game—and honestly, it felt like being welcomed into their world!
The show isn’t just an exhibition; it’s a living scrapbook of 25 years of turning everyday family life into art. Walking through it, you can feel how they’ve taken the chaos, humor, and love of home life and turned it into something universal.
The talk unfolded among their works—sculptures, videos, installations. They told us how, after moving to Houston and becoming parents, they hit a crossroads: Who were they as artists? What was their community now?
At some point, they realized the answer was already around them. “Our family is our everyday life,” they said, “so shouldn’t we include our family in our work?” That simple idea changed everything. They ditched the idea of a separate studio and started making art right at home—with their kids, their stuff, and their daily chaos.
Their motto ever since: the line between art and life doesn’t need to exist. For Stephan and Mary, art can come from anywhere: a stew pot turned into a crown, a mountain of toys, a moment at the dinner table.
Over the years, their children have gone from being the subjects of the work to real collaborators (one of them is now studying art!). The house, the yard, the piles of toys: everything becomes material.
One of the big themes in the show is, well, stuff—all the things that pile up in a family home. In their video Accumulation, they literally climb through mountains of objects, turning the mess into something poetic.
Then there are the Mandalas—beautiful circular patterns made from toys, Legos, and junk-drawer treasures. Inspired by Buddhist sand mandalas, they’re both playful and deeply calming—rituals made from the everyday.

nothing is precious, everything is game is on view until November 22, 2025. If you haven’t seen it yet, don’t miss the chance—it’s a joyful, thoughtful, and refreshingly reminder that creativity can live anywhere, even in the middle of your living room.

Location - Silver Street Studios - 2000 Edwards Street - Houston, TX 77007
Gallery Hours - Wednesday – Saturday - 12 PM – 5 PM

IN SITU ART CLUB, in collaboration with Sicardi and Al Appartamento, hosted an intimate and convivial cocktail at the home and studio of renowned artist Reynier Leyva Novo.
Guests were welcomed into Novo’s creative space, where they had the rare opportunity to engage with the artist on a personal level. Throughout the evening, Novo shared stories behind his multidisciplinary practice and spoke about the ideas and research that fuel his conceptual work. Known for blending historical inquiry with digital technology, his art explores how power, memory, and ideology manifest in collective life.
Attendees were invited to discover a diverse selection of his work—ranging from sculpture and photography to painting—while enjoying thoughtful conversations with the artist himself and fellow collectors.
It was a unique and enriching evening, offering a deeper look into Novo’s evolving practice and the poetic ways in which he challenges and reimagines history.

The visit to River Oaks Theatre offered an intimate glimpse into one of Houston’s cultural icons. The guided tour illuminated its Art Deco elegance and storied past, while Robert Saucedo’s insights on preservation and programming revealed the theater’s enduring role as a hub for discerning cinephiles.

For this special encounter, IN SITU ART CLUB had the privilege of engaging directly with the work of interdisciplinary artist Saul Hernández Vargas, who shared insights into his creative process during a visit to his exhibition The Mineral Condition.
Hosted in the elegant setting of Jonathan Hopson Gallery, the exhibition presented a powerful body of work that weaves together archival research, sculptural interventions, and performative strategies.
Saul generously guided us through the space, offering thoughtful reflections on his practice, which critically examines the entangled relationships between power, land, and the body.
Alongside his most recent works, the visit provided a rare and intimate look into his evolving artistic journey—an experience that left a lasting impression.

After an insightful curator-led tour of Sonya Clark: We Are Each Other with Sarah Darro, our visit to the Houston Center for Contemporary Craft continued with an exclusive studio visit with resident artist Nela Garzón.
Garzón is a multidisciplinary artist whose work bridges traditional handcraft and contemporary discourse. Through embroidery, weaving, and cultural symbolism, she explores themes of colonialism, migration, and social justice. Her practice draws on ancestral techniques to critically engage with the impact of globalization, while affirming the value of cultural diversity and the preservation of indigenous knowledge.
A deeply resonant encounter, this visit offered a rare and intimate look at a practice rooted in both resistance and reverence.

We were warmly welcomed into the inspiring creative space of @magpiespeacocks, Houston’s only non-profit design house, where Sarah-Jayne and Ahshia introduced us to their incredible work at the intersection of sustainability, fashion, and social impact. Surrounded by repurposed couture and community-driven design, guests explored how creativity can be a catalyst for change.
The evening featured an intimate conversation with Raphaël Griffon @griffon.joailliers, a fourth-generation French jeweler whose thoughtful approach to craft and heritage captivated us all. Through his family’s history and personal journey, Raphaël offered a rare glimpse into the timeless artistry of French haute joaillerie.
We were also thrilled to unveil our IN SITU Art Club journey to Paris in September 2025—an immersive experience exploring the city’s vibrant intersections of art, fashion, and design. It was a pleasure to introduce our Paris ambassador, Ellecia Knolle @parisprep.

For this photography-focused event, IN SITU ART CLUB had the privilege of visiting FotoFest headquarters in the heart of Houston’s vibrant Arts District. FotoFest Director Steven Evans welcomed participants with an insightful introduction to the organization, sharing its rich 42-year history and its growth into a leading force in the photography world, widely recognized for its prestigious biennial festival. Following this, participants were guided by FotoFest Associate Curator Madi Murphy on an exclusive tour of Flor Garduño: Paths of Life / Senderos de Vida. This stunning retrospective featured unpublished images from Flor Garduño’s personal archive, alongside her more recent works, offering a rare and intimate look at her evolving artistic journey.

The IN SITU ART CLUB event at Arielle Masson’s studio, in the Heights, was an inspiring experience. Participants had the unique opportunity to witness Arielle’s creative process firsthand as she shared insights into her artistic journey and techniques. Through a guided exploration, she explained how she approaches her work, from conceptualization to execution, allowing attendees to gain a deeper understanding of her methods. The event fostered an engaging atmosphere where art lovers not only observed but also interacted, discussing their thoughts and ideas.

IN SITU ART CLUB was thrilled to have the opportunity to discover the Transart Foundation, thanks to its founder, Surpik Angelini. Surpik is a Houston-based artist, curator, and writer whose work blends art, architecture, and cultural anthropology. During Robert Ruello's exhibition, Surpik introduced the foundation and its remarkable work.
With Robert Ruello himself present, attendees were able to hear about his creative journey and the inspirations behind his pieces. The intimate setting allowed for direct interaction with the artist, offering the chance to ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and techniques behind his art.