The Front Market Gift Guide (2022)
Featuring 180+ women and LGBTQ+ creatives based in Texas from The Front Market.
It’s that time of year. With The Front Market’s Fall Season in full-swing, we’ve got you covered on gifts. Keep scrolling to browse every category in our official 2022 Gift Guide—and enjoy a few of our own special selections.
Sustain Local. Show Up. Check In.
Sustain Local. Show Up. Check In.
NO. 1 — ACCESSORIES
Featured Vendor:
Durable, heirloom hair accessories by Karst Essentials
Designed by Vanessa Martinez, Karst's mission is to make timeless pieces that are made to love for years to come.
Martinez adopted a strong personal association with jewelry as a young girl from her two grandmothers, who spent their time together sharing stories behind the pieces they wore and cherished. Her maternal grandmother loved collecting intricate hairbrushes, hair clips, and headbands and was never spotted without a beautiful piece in her hair; while her paternal grandmother proudly wore her heirloom jewelry full of stories and history.
“The clips that hold our hair each day, or the earrings we reach for every morning, undeniably become a coveted part of our uniform and daily ritual. Our mission is to make (not-so-boring) heirloom-grade accessories that are made to love and last for years to come.”
Featured Gift:
Karst Claw Clips ($15 to $30)
NO. 2 — ART
Featured Vendor:
Prints and homeware by Keiko Hayner Illustrations
Keiko Hayner is a freelance illustrator, located in Austin, Texas. Originally from Osaka, Japan, her work explores colorful, whimsical figurers and scenes using primarily watercolor, digital art and block printing. Her illustrations are inspired by people's stories, interesting events, mundane objects and her own imagination.
She got her start painting with watercolor in 2019 as a hobby, selling some prints to friends and family. She officially opened as Keiko Hayner Illustrations in 2020.
Featured Gift:
Keiko Hayner Prints ($18)
NO. 3 — APPAREL
Featured Vendor:
Hand-dyed silks by Soul Studio
Soul Studio produces nature-inspired goods that encourage sustainability and conscious consumptive practices.
Utilizing organic sources and non-toxic processing, their plant-dyed and botanically enriched products strengthen the connection between goods and their origins.
Featuring slow designs by the brand’s founder Melissa Hargus, each each piece of clothing is an original work of art.
Featured Gift:
Soul Studio Silk Tops ($125 to $325)
NO. 4 — Ceramics
Featured Vendor:
Ceramics by Corrie Pocta
Corrie Pocta is a ceramicist and leather designer based in Dallas, Texas.
With seven years experience as a public high school art teacher, she has extended her passion for art education through the founding of Trade Oak Cliff, an artist co-op studio, shop, and educational space. From Trade, she also teaches private and group ceramics classes.
Featured Gift:
Corrie Pocta Vases ($75 to $95)
NO. 5 — HOME GOODS
Featured Vendor:
Rugs and home decor by Molave
Created by Arnelle and Gianna, Molave is an exploration of textures and textiles. The brand’s collection is inspired by the people, places and cultures its founders encounter on travels—born out of a desire to cultivate a worldly, well-traveled home.
“Molave is a sun-loving tree native to the Philippines and known for its strength, durability, beauty and ornamental potential. That's why the Molave tree spoke to us when we were creating this brand. Those qualities are inherent in all of our products, but also in everyone in our community—our artisans, our artists, and you. Our roots connect us to our heritage and the Earth, while our branches spread far to connect us all.”
Featured Gift:
Molave Textiles ($65 to $860)
Featured Vendor:
Textiles and wall hangings by TAWA Threads
Rooted in sentimental value, TAWA Threads’ collections feature designs that promote and envision a world where diverse groups feel supported, empowered and welcomed in the outdoors.
Founded by designer Tabria Williford, each product gives back to organizations who implement immersive programs centered around culturally mindful exploration, healing spaces and leadership development.
Featured Gift:
TAWA Threads Bandanas and Runners ($20 to $65)
NO. 5 — JEWELRY
Featured Vendor:
Earrings and statement pieces by YEAR 901
Founder of YEAR 901, Benh Pham makes jewelry with a fun and light-hearted twist. YEAR 901 uses traditional metalsmithing techniques including wire wrapping, hand forging and lost wax casting.
YEAR 901’s jewelry is inspired by bright colors, organic shapes, and playful details that are often overlooked in everyday life. With a focus on sustainability, the boutique jewelry shop takes pride in crafting each piece by hand with locally sourced items and recycled metals & materials as much as possible.
Featured Gift:
YEAR 901 Rings and Earrings ($25 to $350)
NO. 6 — SELF-CARE
Featured Vendor:
Journals and guided workbooks by Me-Est Me
Created by Shana Rehwald, The Me-est Me Journal is a guided workbook filled with self-discovery journal prompts and exercises to help you reconnect with yourself.
Perfect for anyone in a transition or ready to do the inner work. This journal is a pathway towards self-reflection, shedding old parts of yourself, and embracing your true self.
Featured Gift:
Me-Est Me Journal ($29)
NO. 7 — FOODS & SIPS
Featured Vendor:
Vegan cheeses by Peace Cheese
Created by Shana Rehwald, The Me-est Me Journal is a guided workbook filled with self-discovery journal prompts and exercises to help you reconnect with yourself.
Perfect for anyone in a transition or ready to do the inner work. This journal is a pathway towards self-reflection, shedding old parts of yourself, and embracing your true self.
Featured Gift:
Peace Cheese Mozz Moon ($6)
Featured Vendor:
Natural wines by US Natural Wine x Ani’s Day & Night
US Natural Wine is an Austin-based virtual bottle shop, delivering the most unique domestic wines and a few international favorites right to your door.
Popping up and partnering with Ani’s Day & Night on regular occasion, the brand features wine for everyone, or Wine for Y'all, as they like to say. We love buying domestic as often as possible, and believe you should too!
Their rotating inventory comes courtesy of partnerships with local distributors and their ability to buy direct from winemakers. This ensures the wines we offer are affordable, unique and pretty damn good.
Featured Gift:
Us Natural Wine Greek Wine Collection ($13.50 to $33)
NO. 7 — PETS, PLANTS & PAPER GOODS
Featured Vendor:
Sustainable pet goods by True Pup
Handmade in Austin, every product at True Pup is created with the planet in mind. From repurposing clothes and linens to stuffing beds with scraps and shreds, every dog bed, toy and collar features recycled goods.
True Pup’s treats are also made with 100% fresh ingredients & materials to ensure your pup has clean products going into their mouth.
Featured Gift:
True Pup Handwoven Rope Toys ($10 to $15)
Future Front’s Gift Guide features entirely women and LGBTQ+ vendors from The Front Market, which opens every Spring and Fall to feature more than 400 Texas-based creatives and small business owners per year.
Learn more here.
The Community Leaders of Color Mental Health Project Has (Thankfully) Returned
We are incredibly lucky—and grateful—to bring this resource back with 30 sessions available for six leaders for 2022.
Presented by Future Front in partnership with Colors of Austin Counseling, The Community Leaders of Color Mental Health Project is an ongoing resource for Black, Indigenous and non-white leaders of color pursuing racial justice in creative, community, business and work settings.
Since 2020, we have provided 175+ pro bono therapy sessions in Austin, Texas to 40 community leaders. We are incredibly lucky—and grateful—to bring this resource back with 30 sessions available for six leaders for 2022.
Keep reading for more details on how to request support or make a donation to this project.
WHY DOES THIS PROGRAM EXIST?
☺ We know that BIPOC founders and leaders show up for our communities in times of crisis—often while managing their own trauma and sense of safety.
✰ We also know that BIPOC folks step up to represent their communities in big ways—and that act of collective care can be overwhelming.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Through this fund, we seasonally grant women and LGBTQ+ community leaders of color up to five sessions each of culturally appropriate crisis therapy with a therapist at Colors of Austin Counseling. We primarily help emerging leaders without insurance find the practical and emotional tools they need to navigate discrimination-based crises and conflicts within their work.
Because we envision a world where equitable access to mental health is normalized.
We envision a world where our communities are fiercely cared for—and racial justice work is followed by restoration.
We envision a world where BIPOC leaders in many community settings—from independent small business owners to grassroots nonprofit directors—receive the support they deserve, too.
HOW CAN YOU REQUEST SUPPORT?
No. 1 — Ensure you are eligible to apply.
You must be based in Austin, Texas.
You must identify as Black, Indigenous or a person of color.
You must identify as a woman, trans, gender-non-conforming or LGBTQ+.
You must be leading or a part of a creative project, community project, work project or business that furthers racial justice.
No. 2 — Submit your request with our form.
This resource has been brought forward due to the organizing work of Colors of Austin Counseling’s Director of Equity Sandra Olarte-Hayes (she/her/ella)—a bilingual LCSW, therapist, and circle keeper in Austin, Texas—in collaboration with fellow Black, Indigenous and POC colleagues and therapists from the Colors of Austin Counseling staff. Once you apply for a session, you will be considered for placement with an available therapist in their network. Your request is entirely confidential.
Responses to your request may take five to seven business days.
HOW CAN YOU SUPPORT THIS WORK?
BEHIND THIS PROJECT:
Meet the fund’s founder, Sandra Olarte-Hayes.
Sandra Olarte-Hayes (she/her/ella) is a bilingual LCSW, therapist, and circle keeper in Austin, Texas.
Her healing work has focused on working with formerly and currently incarcerated individuals, young organizers, immigrant youth and families, and individuals on both sides of domestic violence. She also works with clients undergoing family conflict, depression, personal and intergenerational trauma, and racial and cultural issues. Sandra's work is grounded in anti-oppresive, feminist frameworks and she dedicates much of her energy to healing justice initiatives which bridge the gap between healing work and social change movements. She is deeply passionate about restorative justice and bringing healing to individuals on both sides of violence and strongly believes all change, both systemic and personal, are grounded in relationships, connection, and community.
Meet the fund’s underwriters.
Looking for more resources?
Learn about everything else we do at Future Front here.
The Return of The Front Festival: A Weekend of Abundance
From August 25 to 28, we took over The Line Hotel Austin, Parish and The Contemporary’s Laguna Gloria for four days of music, film and pool parties. More than 800 guests across Texas joined us to celebrate work by 35+ women and LGBTQ+ artists.
From August 25 to 28, we took over The Line Hotel Austin, Parish and The Contemporary’s Laguna Gloria for four days of music, film and pool parties. More than 800 guests across Texas joined us to celebrate work by 35+ women and LGBTQ+ artists.
Thanks to donations at the door and our pop-up bar by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, we also fundraised $500+ for our Creative Future of Texas Fund.
WANT TO REMINISCE? BASK IN THE VISUAL RECAP.
All photos by Jinni J and Manny Frayre.
You can still keep up with the ARTISTS ON OUR lineup, too.
Thank you to our sponsors, partners and friends.
✰
Thank you to our sponsors, partners and friends. ✰
Since 2015, the festival has seen more than 16,000 guests and showcased 550+ women and LGBTQ+ artists and artists since 2016. We would not be create this space without support from our sponsors, members, staff, volunteers, friends and you. Thank you!
On Navigating The Music Industry And Centering Joy: We Don't Ride Llamas
In this interview, Austin-based band We Don’t Ride Llamas shares their thoughts on making music that feels good and touring as a close-knit band.
This summer, we’re checking in with our members and friends on the meaning of abundance.
As we get ready for The Front Festival, we touched base with the four members of We Don’t Ride Llamas, one of this year’s official festival headliners. In this interview, the group shares their thoughts on making music that feels good and touring as a close-knit band.
For more details on The Front Fest, head here.
MEET WE DON’T RIDE LLAMAS.
Generation Z siblings, big brother, Chase (lead guitar), and sisters, Max (lead vocals), Blake (drums), and Kit Mitchell (bass guitar), make up the L.A. band, We Don’t Ride Llamas (WDRL). Avid readers, self-professed nerds, lovers of sci-fi, anime, fashion, and nearly every musical genre from punk to funk, the members of WDRL cannot resist any good story well told, especially those set to an engaging melody.
The band also recently won an Austin Music Award and has been touring with Willow and Courtney Barnett.
No. 1 — WDRL just put out The Oracle. What went into making that EP? The sound feels so collaborative to the ear; did you all write in a different way for this one?
Well, we actually took each song from multiple weird, spiritual experiences that we had throughout quarantine. All of our projects are normally hands-on but we were marinating this EP for months. We’re super proud of it!
No. 2 —You’ve recently toured with Willow and are preparing for another tour with Courtney Barnett. Any favorite shows on tour so far? Any particular rituals or creative practices y’all bring to tour?
San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, and Houston were some of our best shows, but the whole tour was lovely. The crowds were so warm, welcoming and ready to get loud! We always meet up before every show for warm ups and do a little pre-show meditation to get the vibes going on stage.
No. 3 — What does nurturing abundance in your creative life look like for WDRL as a family band?
We create a lot of spaces to thrive artistically from practice to personal writing! We just wrote two new songs that we’re super excited to release soon, as well as tons of new music. As a family, we’ve always pro-active about creative growth and synergy in our music. We believe that’s part of what makes our art so enjoyable to us.
No. 4 — What has art-making brought to your life? Anything in particular you’d like to share or reflect on?
It’s a pure and substantial source of joy in our lives for sure. We can’t remember a time when any of us weren’t not making something, even outside of music. Going in the studio to performing on stages is always a wonderful journey, but it’s also a job. It’s definitely built up our work ethic and enriched our zest for the industry. We’re really grateful to be able to do something like this and build a community around it.
No. 5 — What do you hope for the future of your creative work?
We are definitely going on a world tour! More tours just in general. We’re currently working on an album as well as our own personal projects outside of music. But, mainly, we want to play Madison Square Gardens, become Kennedy Center Honorees, participate in some movie sound tracks, and a few Grammies wouldn’t hurt either.
WANT TO ATTEND THE FRONT FEST?
Find more information at thefrontfest.com.
You can also keep up with what we’re up to at Future Front—from virtual events to membership—here.
On Texas Perreo And DJing Across Borders: Suxxy Puxxy
In this interview, DJ and host Suxxy Puxxy shares her thoughts on the art of Perreo, the beauty of communities united by Reggaeton and the resilience it takes to be an independent creative.
This summer, we’re checking in with our members and friends on the meaning of abundance.
As we get ready for The Front Festival, we chatted with Suxxy Puxxy, celebrated DJ and co-creator of Perreo Club. In this interview, Suxxy shares her thoughts on the art of Perreo, the beauty of communities united by Reggaeton and the resilience it takes to be an independent creative.
For more details on The Front Fest, head here.
MEET SUXXY PUXXY.
Sussie Ramirez (she/her) better known as Suxxy Puxxy is a promoter, manager and DJ from Monterrey, Nuevo León.
Suxxy (like her friends call her) started working in the underground party scene in Monterrey, helping produce events with local artists focused on bringing international talent in town. That's how she met Peligrosa, the Austin multidisciplinary latin collective. She started to work with them by planning a tour around California in summer 2018 and then working in a series of releases for Discos Peligrosa, which lead her to leave her hometown and move to Texas. Peligrosa members took her hand to start a new journey of her life which was the beginning of her Djing. Between a mix of her melancholy of missing home and her passion for Reggaeton, she started to throw Perreo parties, but what really set her aside was her way of mixing.
After the pandemic shutdown, alongside guest DJs and friends, she launched Perreo Club, an inclusive Latinx party based in Texas celebrating the culture of Reggaeton & Perreo.
No. 1 — Perreo Club’s been picking up speed the last few months! What went into co-creating the vibe/intention for this party? Any particular inspirations (both the obvious and the more obscure!)?
It kind of just came naturally. If you create it, people will come and there was an obvious demand for an inclusive Latinx space in Austin. We wanted to hold a safe space where people like us can come out and hear the music we grew up with, the music we like now and enjoy a night out with like-minded people.
No. 2 — Any advice for other aspiring creatives or DJs out there?
Keep going. Nothing comes easy. Every wall you may come across is a just boundary you push. Learn from your mistakes and don’t get discouraged by any set backs. Most of all, have a vision and stick to it.
No. 3 — What does nurturing abundance in your creative life look like right now? Got any rituals/practices you particularly love?
We’re really into practicing mindfulness and being open with each other about the obstacles we face. We find it easier to open up versus keep it all in. Take the breaks if you need them. Sussie is into working out and tarot reading. Find your safe space. Monique likes to wake up and meditate using sound bowls. We took an interview last week and set out our crystals. So, intention-setting, walks, therapy. Discover yourself during alone time. Put your mental health first.
No. 4 — What has art-making brought to your life? Anything in particular you’d like to reflect on?
It’s easy to get lost in the journey and art helps keep us grounded and helps us stay true to who we are as individuals. In creating this space, we hope it inspires others to stay true to themselves as well.
No. 5 — What do you hope for the future of your creative work?
We want to cross borders! We’d love to be a space for international artists to come to Texas and we’d love to travel internationally to host inclusive spaces for more artists.
WANT TO ATTEND THE FRONT FEST?
Find more information at thefrontfest.com.
You can also keep up with what we’re up to at Future Front—from virtual events to membership—here.
On Directing For The First Time And Writing Everyday: Stephanie Halovanic
Director and writer Stephanie Halovanic shares her experience directing for the first time, as well as her thoughts on finding the courage to create.
This summer, we’re checking in with our members and friends on the meaning of abundance.
As we get ready for The Front Festival, we sat down with one of this year’s featured filmmakers, Stephanie Halovanic. Stephanie shares her experience directing for the first time, as well as her thoughts on finding the courage to create.
For more details on The Front Fest, head here.
MEET STEPHANIE HALOVANIC.
Stephanie (she/her) is a writer and director based in NYC and Austin. But Humble Sinners is her first film.
She's worked as a writer and art director in advertising and runs a photo and film studio called Halo House with her sister. She's interested in writing coming-of-age stories about every stage of life on stylized, art-directed backdrops. She was born in Dallas, studied print journalism in Missouri and became a grown-up in NYC.
Next, she hopes to make feature called Penance, a coming-of-age comedy about a Catholic school girl preparing for her first confession. Think Rushmore meets Pippi Longstocking meets the Sacraments. She also hopes to turn But Humble Sinners into a series.
No. 1 — Let’s talk script! What sorts of inspirations / musings led to the creation of But Humble Sinners?
But Humble Sinners is the product of practice. One night during the pandemic, I wanted to get better at writing dialogue. I opened my computer and just started to write. I wrote the first draft of But Humble Sinners that night, and I began directing straight on the page—thinking through colors and music and all of the things that make a script come to life.
I went to Catholic school my whole life, so the religious motifs are no surprise. And lastly, the adventures of female friendship are the building blocks of my life, so I am not a bit surprised that this fuels so much of what But Humble Sinners is.
No. 2 — From casting to crew, BHS was a community affair. Any advice for other indie filmmakers in Texas?
Making a film is the ultimate group project. My advice is to seek out people who are passionate and great at what they do. Then the hard part comes: letting go and trusting them to do their thing. So much about directing and making a film is listening to your instincts. When do you outsource something? When do you fight for an idea? When do you let an idea go?
For example, I was set on playing one of the nuns in But Humble Sinners, but I was a first-time director (really a “first-time” everything), and I had to let that go. And, boy, am I glad I did because I found the perfect nuns who have become life long friends and taught me so much about acting and art.
No. 3 — What does nurturing abundance in your creative life look like right now? Got any rituals or practices you particularly love around filmmaking (or otherwise)?
I try to write every single day. Just 20 minutes. I set the timer on my phone and open a page. The rule is no editing, only writing. Some days it’s torture and other days I go on to write for a whole hour(s). I wrote one of my favorite short screenplays with this method, with ideas that came from god knows where.
I find I’m less precious and more playful during these writing sessions. On top of that, I love taking classes and learning from new people. This fall I’m taking an acting class! And finally, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge my main muse: New York City. From the top of the Empire State Building to my neighborhood curmudgeons, the energy of the city inspires me more and more every day.
No. 4— What has art-making brought to your life? Anything in particular you’d like to share / reflect on?
Giving yourself the freedom to create and to make just for you and no one else is mandatory to survive this crazy world. If you ever have an urge to make—paint, write, act, puppeteer—do it. When art calls, answer with an artist.
No. 5 — What do you hope for the future of your creative work?
I hope to make film and television that is weird and wacky and relatable—push myself to think experimentally and honestly. I hope to explore acting. I hope to write for the theater. Be in a play. Write a musical. I just want to keep going. More tangibly, I hope to shoot my first feature film in 2023 called Penance, a coming-of-age story about a little Jewish girl who converts to Catholicism so she can to go to confession and get a powerful penance.
WANT TO ATTEND THE FRONT FEST?
Find more information at thefrontfest.com.
You can also keep up with what we’re up to at Future Front—from virtual events to membership—here.
On Independent Filmmaking, Creative Activism And West Texas: Kat Broyles
Director and multidisciplinary creative Kat Broyles shares her creative process, the inspiration for Moondogs, as well as her own thoughts on abortion access in 2022.
This summer, we’re checking in with our members and friends on the meaning of abundance.
As we get ready for The Front Festival, we sat down with one of this year’s featured filmmakers, Kat Broyles. Kat shares her creative process, the inspiration for Moondogs, as well as her own thoughts on healthcare access in 2022.
For more details on The Front Fest, head here.
Kat Broyles (center) directs onset during the filming of Moondogs.
MEET KAT BROYLES.
Katie Broyles (she/her) is a third year Studio Art major and the director of Moondogs. Her artwork primarily focuses on expressing the complexities of human relationships through video, painting, illustration, and sculpture.
Her films have been selected for the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival and the Austin Spotlight Film Festival.
She has worked on numerous film sets, most notably SIX on History Channel as a production assistant and My Friend Shokat in production design, and has acted in numerous student films. She is interested in transitioning into directing films about important and meaningful stories that combine the metaphysical with the mundane.
No. 1 — Creating an independent film takes a lot of energy, gumption and give-it-your-all risk-taking. Creating an independent film like Moondogs, however, requires all that and a whole lot more. Why did this story become so important to you? What were some of the goals you had in creating this film and bringing it to light?
When I first began to write Moondogs, I knew I wanted to write about the desert, as it was a landscape so prevalent in my teenage years. I knew I wanted to write a sort of portrait of the young women I grew up with and our experiences and struggles.
One of the goals of this film was to depict the nuanced relationships between teenagers, inspired by my own at that age, on the precipice of adulthood contending with subjects of heavy emotional weight. Another goal was to depict an emotional journey of an abortion-seeker and how the external policies effect our internal worlds.
I wanted to emphasize the West Texan desert as a motivating character, representing the vastness and nuances of these experiences. Texas has historically been a battleground for reproductive rights and I wanted to humbly try and capture an experience of being swept up in these invisible forces.
No. 2 — Since Moondogs premiered, Roe v. Wade has been overturned. What kind of texture does that bring to the film now? Anything in particular you’d like new viewers to think about?
I think it brings a very certain feeling of anguish to the film now, as it already depicts the difficulty of getting an abortion in the past—the lack of clinics, the cruel 24-hour waiting period, the mandated ultrasound and lack of insurance coverage, all things already making it almost impossible for abortion seekers of color, rural, and undocumented abortion seekers to receive care.
Now, the characters in Moondogs would not even be able to receive an abortion, and her friends would be prosecuted for aiding and abetting an abortion, possibly facing jail time. They would have to drive to New Mexico or further to receive an abortion to avoid any sort of persecution. This places even a greater burden on abortion seekers than before, which was already impossible to begin with. It was definitely a series of heartbreaks making and finishing this film as the reproductive rights to Texans were stripped away.
No. 3 — What does nurturing abundance in your creative life look like right now? Got any rituals/practices you particularly love?
Nurturing abundance for, right now at least, is really finding the enjoyment in small things. I feel like I am starting over almost, and re-learning to let myself lead with curiosity and not a drive to succeed. I love to take my dogs out for walks daily and have been getting better at baking. I am also letting myself write very freely and without judgement. Definitely went through a long period of solitude/self-isolation and I do feel like little by little, I am getting out of it.
No. 4— What has art-making brought to your life? Anything in particular you’d like to reflect on?
Art-making has brought so much to my life. It has been the anchor to a lot of who I am and how I approach the world. Studying and practicing art and now filmmaking has broadened my horizons in so many ways. It is incredibly challenging and sometimes so disheartening, but it is such a fulfilling process in the end.
I feel like I am always learning from my community and can explore themes through so many different avenues. I love the sharing and collaborative process of art-making and how it creates and encourages self-reflection. Even when you take time away, it is always there to come back to.
No. 5 — What do you hope for the future of your creative work?
I hope I can better service my community through creative work. I hope I can help foster projects that are meaningful and equitable both behind and in front of the camera. I would love to continue my writing and hopefully get a feature off the ground, as well as work with as many creatives as I can in the meantime. After a long hiatus, I would like to paint again.
want to attend the front fest?
Find more information at thefrontfest.com.
You can also keep up with what we’re up to at Future Front—from virtual events to membership—here.
On Honoring the Diaspora of Blackness and Creating with Curiosity: Ibeyi Anga and Whitney Hamilton
Curators Ibeyi and Whitney share their artistic processes, how they unearth inspiration, and staying present through sustainable practice.
This summer, we’re checking in with our members and friends on the meaning of abundance.
In anticipation of the second annual BLACK ART WKND, we are highlighting two curators from OF COLOR — Ibeyi Anga and Whitney Hamilton, as they explore the vastness of this year's theme, ALL KINDS OF BLACK. Curators Ibeyi and Whitney share their artistic processes, how they unearth inspiration, and staying present through sustainable practice. For more details on BLACK ART WKND, see here.
Meet Ibeyi AnGa.
Ibeyi Anga is a curator that resides in the here and now. Her works are based on creative and cultural initiatives curating, producing, and the allowance of various art styles.
She is interested in interdisciplinary approaches to life and form expression. Her most recent curatorial project draws inspiration from Igbo cosmology, N’anya Chi which translates to “see through gods eyes”.
In 2021, she founded Anga Haus, a collective whose mission is to celebrate life through ubiquitous forms of expression.
“ …there is no shortage of creative input/energy in this world.”
No. 1 — In your own words, who are you, and what do you do?
My name is Ibiye Anga and my mission is to be present, perceive, and create. I embrace and respect change as a major constant in my life and I am able to participate actively by curating and creating art experiences for and within my community.
No. 2 — What does abundance look like to you?
Abundance to me looks like the endless inspired thoughts and actions that create this reality. It is in alignment and respect for the idea that there is no shortage of creative input/energy in this world.
No. 3 — How does your art celebrate blackness?
My art celebrates blackness by existing in this time and space. Life as a black woman is a celebration with every expression. My art celebrates blackness by existing in its full spectrum and ubiquitous nature.
No. 4 — Describe your creative process. How do you get from ideation to completion when it comes to art-making? When does something feel finished to you?
My creative process consists of allowing my curiosity to take charge of my life experience. I find that whenever I’m in a new environment physically or non-physically, I am supplied with a barrage of inspired thoughts. I make sure I write these down when they come so I can ACT on them. Acting on these ideas is the most rewarding part of my creative process because it allows me to think in ways I haven’t before and it’s a new adventure every time. My work/art lets it be known when it feels satisfied with the stage it is at. Sometimes it’s completion, and other times it's a prelude to another piece.
No. 5 — Tell us when/where you were when the inspiration struck for one of your pieces?
I’ve come to appreciate life as the ultimate form of material for inspiration. For my curatorial piece titled “narration”, it came by listening to my artists' processes and understanding that everything comprises of storytelling. Other times, it comes through dreams, media, colors, etc really anything/everything in this experience.
No. 6 — What are a few ways you cultivate abundance in your daily life?
Gratitude truly is the attitude - for the moments, relationships, and experiences of my daily missions.
No. 7 — How do you navigate creating a sustainable life (emotionally, financially, practically, socially, etc.) for yourself as an artist? What practices or routines keep you in balance?
I create a sustainable life for myself by challenging repeated patterns/paradigms. The overarching theme that rules my life is understanding that things can only get better. This allows me to embrace and anticipate change by questioning everything. One of my favorite practices is recording thoughts and moments by journaling (visual or audio).
Meet Whitney Hamilton.
Whitney Hamilton, a Chicago native, has always had a passion for curating experiences and spaces for people who looked like her, in order to discard that uncomfortable feeling of knowing you may be the only Black person, or person of color in general, in the room.
She has a Bachelors in both African American Studies and Gender & Women Studies and has worked at the DuSable Museum of African American Studies in Chicago. There she was able plan meaningful programs and events and assist with exhibitions to provide memorable experiences to those wanting to celebrate and experience Black culture.
As a recent Austin transplant, she is ready to take that drive for helping the Black community as she did in Chicago through a creative lens.
No. 1 — In your own words, who are you and what do you do?
In short: I'm a Black woman who is forever curious and loves to have a thoughtful experience. I love connecting with people and building relationships and then connecting those people to other people so that they can create great things.
No. 2 — What does abundance look like to you?
Abundance looks like joy, appreciation, and happiness. In a world where I live as a Black woman, these 3 things are something that I don't take for granted because I may not receive it.
No. 3 — How does your art celebrate blackness?
I don't create art myself, but I love and appreciate it and the people who do create it. I'm actually beginning my own personal art collection and I want to celebrate blackness with my collection being a majority of Black artists. For me, Black art is beautiful and it isn't always expected. As a child, I didn't even know Black people could be artists because of what was taught in school and what was on display in museums and art galleries. Now, I want to be able to celebrate the creativity and the different mediums of Black artists. So, though I'm not a creator myself, I want to be able to celebrate them by supporting them and sharing their work with my network through my own collection.
No. 4 — Describe your creative process. How do you get from ideation to completion when it comes to art-making? When does something feel finished to you?
I think I struggle with this. The ideation comes easily because a lot of my ideas for storytelling come from my lived experiences or the experiences of those close to me and what may be missing. What is something that I can enjoy? The completion is the problem. I think that it is living and breathing so would it ever be complete? But also, that is why I love the relationships that I build. They help me. I don't always know how to put my ideas into action and what that looks like so having people around me that do know and that know how to keep me grounded and not spiral is key.
No. 5 — Tell us when/where you were when the inspiration struck for one of your pieces?
Speaking specifically about curating the theme 'All Kinds of Black Women', I initially didn't know what theme I was going to pick. One day a few weeks ago, as I was scrolling on social media, I kept seeing a common theme when it came to Black women: Tired. I wanted to use the lens of my artists to tell the story of Black Women, but I wasn't sure exactly how. A few days later, I was watching Waiting to Exhale and though it was focused mainly on the story of 4 friends and their romantic relationships, don't all Black women currently, want to take a moment to exhale? That's the story I wanted to tell. Black women experience all of these things, but they still move forward. They still are trying to find ways to find joy and find beauty to their personal standards.
No. 6 — What are a few ways you cultivate abundance in your daily life?
Something else I'm struggling with especially when I let the external world get in the way. I try to pause, reflect on what I could do to cultivate abundance, add some joy to my day, and allow myself grace. Getting outside every day is a must. Even if it's just for 15 minutes. I love the sun and the Austin sun makes itself known, especially now (hahaha). Listening to music, especially on my vinyl player. The process of being intentional and gentle in getting a record, placing it, and enjoying the sounds....it's meditative in a sense.
INTERESTED IN _OF COLOR?
Here’s more info on Black Art WKND.
Black Art WKND is an annual arts showcase and experience produced by _OF COLOR to platform Black creators and curators in Austin, Texas.
In 2022, Black Art WKND popped up from June 9 to 11, with installations and collaborations across the city. This year’s theme, ALL KINDS OF BLACK, is meant to highlight the people, places and practices of Black culture through various art forms and music.
Black is Scarred.
Black is Complex.
Black is Nuanced.
Black is Beautiful.
“Too often, the Black existence is surveilled and scrutinized, rather than celebrated. ALL KINDS OF BLACK will tell our story — from the Hood, to the Burbs, to the Diaspora. Black is everything and also the great nothingness from which all life is born. Limitless. As expansive as the universe.”
And here’s how you can get involved.
“Follow us and share our content on Instagram (@_ofcoloratx)! Our organization is 100% volunteer-led from top to bottom, so we are always happy to welcome energized folks into our community. We believe creativity comes in many forms and all are needed in our mission to build a coalition of creatives of color. Whether your creativity lies in design, curation, project management, copywriting, etc, we probably have a project you could contribute to. We’re also always looking for fiscal sponsors to help support our mission and experiences.
If you’re interested in volunteering, contact volunteer@ofcolor.org. (If you’re interested in sponsoring our experiences, contact marissa@ofcolor.org.)”
Want to stay involved through Future Front?
Keep up with what we’re up to—from virtual events to membership—here.
This interview was compiled and written by Future Front Communications Fellow, Willow Beauchamp.
On Celebrating AAPI Artists And Creators Of Color In Austin: Nina Ho And Marissa Rivera
In this interview, Nina and Marissa reflect on their work as creative leaders and share their thoughts on generative, grounding community traditions.
This summer, we’re checking in with our members and friends on the meaning of abundance.
To kick things off, we’re catching up with two long-time, Austin-based collaborators of Future Front—Nina Ho and Marissa Rivera. Through our friends at _OF COLOR, they’re collaborating for the first time on an experiential art showcase, RITUALS, celebrating AAPI creators in our city .
In this interview, Nina and Marissa reflect on their work as creative leaders and share their thoughts on generative, grounding community traditions. For more information on how to support RITUALS, click here.
Meet Nina Ho.
Nina Ho is an entrepreneur, creative director, and educator based in Austin, Texas.
She is the founder of collective blue, an Austin-based lifestyle brand that celebrates diverse creators through digital storytelling and event production, as well as missfits fest, an event series celebrating self-identifying Asian American women in entrepreneurship and the arts.
Nina is also a creative director and photographer with a focus on fashion editorial work. When it comes to giving back, she enjoys leading entrepreneurship, human-centered design, and branding workshops in Austin and abroad.
No. 1 — In your own words, who are you and what do you do?
My name is Nina Ho (she/her), and I'm an entrepreneur, creative director, and educator. I'm passionate about creating spaces for women and people of color to thrive—especially in the domains of entrepreneurship and the arts.
No. 2 — What does abundance look like to you?
Abundance to me looks like connecting to one's inner reservoir of light and love and carrying it forth in daily life.
No. 3 — How do you measure success in your work?
Success to me when it comes to work is honoring the ebbs and flows of creation and output as well as rest and reflection. My priority is the well-being of myself and my team so that we're able to do the work we love and create the impact we desire in a sustained and equanimous manner. It's taken a lot of hard lessons and re-evaluating my relationship with "productivity" to arrive here personally and as a leader.
No. 4 — What keeps you grounded? Any tips or rituals?
A breakthrough for me has been leaning into all the ways of knowing - not just mentally but also physically, emotionally, and spiritually/energetically. When I trust myself to already hold all of the answers that I seek, I'm able to naturally gravitate towards the rest, play, people, food, and experiences that I need to recharge and feel grounded. For me, some of those activities look like gardening, meditation, cooking, reading, and making art from a place of inspiration and ease.
No. 5 —What have you let go this year that has made a positive change in your life?
I've let go of my need to categorize experiences into neat boxes of either/or and this or that. More than one truth can exist at once (even if they seem contradictory), and embracing this ambiguity has been incredibly freeing. For example, I am doing my best, and I can do better. Both statements can be true at once.
No. 6 — Your newest community project, RITUALS, debuts this weekend. What are you excited about when it comes to this particular showcase?
Collective joy! The themes within our community these past few years have been grief, protection, and resilience, and I'm excited to lean into the brighter side of life—truly to cleanse, to release, and to celebrate… I'm grateful for this collaboration with the _OF COLOR team and to be able to hold space for the AAPI community in Austin.
Meet marissa rivera.
Marissa Rivera (she/her) is a licensed psychotherapist, yoga teacher and educator in Austin, Texas.
She is the owner of Ola Wellness, a private psychotherapy practice proudly serving Austin's LGBTQ+ communities of Color. As an Indigenous Tejana, Marissa is passionate about serving her community. She is active in amplifying local artists and musicians of color through her work as a board member for the SIMS Foundation and Director of Partnerships for _OF COLOR.
In her downtime, Marissa enjoys volunteering with Divine Canines, taking long walks with her pup Bruce Wayne, performing as a backup dancer, and finding the best al pastor tacos in town.
No. 1 — In your own words, who are you and what do you do?
My name is Marissa Rivera (she/her/ella), and I am a Queer Indigenous Tejana who as a licensed psychotherapist creates space for intergenerational healing within LGBTQ+ communities of color. I’m also passionate about building creative healing communities through my work on the Board of Directors for the SIMS Foundation and as Director of Partnerships for _OFCOLOR.
No. 2 — What does abundance look like to you?
For me, abundance means being able to share with others one's expansive capacity for curiosity, compassion, community, and authenticity.
No. 3 — How do you measure success in your work?
Success for me looks like creating experiences that encourage people to question their assumptions and to expand the lens they use to view the world. I think art has a unique ability to bring those experiences to life, enhance one’s connection to community, and give voice to stories needing to be told.
No. 4 — What keeps you grounded? Any tips or rituals?
I’m someone who is vulnerable to being too analytical and overthinking things, so I make a point to engage my senses and body whenever I notice myself trapped by my own arbitrary expectations. For me, this means swimming, dancing, laying in the grass with my pup, or even practicing environmental meditations outside. I always encourage my clients to connect with the people, places, and practices that make it safe to connect with their bodies and spirits when living in our current feudal oligarchy feels overwhelming. Doing so is the only way we can continue building a more connected future together.
No. 5 — What have you let go this year that has made a positive change in your life?
I’ve learned to de-prioritize relationships and spaces that aren’t aligned with my current path, without judgment and still leaving room for connection on perhaps a different level. It’s ok (and natural!) for connections to ebb and flow, so learning to let go of rigid expectations has been helpful for me to live a very busy life with more ease.
No. 6 — This weekend, _OF COLOR is presenting RITUALS for the first time, in collaboration with may Austin-based AAPI artists. What are you MOST excited FOR?
I am ecstatic to celebrate our AAPI community in Austin and be exposed to some amazing talent! Nina Ho has spent months developing this vision with support of our _OF COLOR team in order to really highlight the diversity within the AAPI community. I’m excited to soak in the different stories and experiences that’ll be represented.
No. 7 — What are the best ways to get involved with _OF COLOR?
Follow us and share our content on Instagram (@_ofcoloratx)! Our organization is 100% volunteer-led from top to bottom, so we are always happy to welcome energized folks into our community. We believe creativity comes in many forms and all are needed in our mission to build a coalition of creatives of color. Whether your creativity lies in design, curation, project management, copywriting, etc, we probably have a project you could contribute to. We’re also always looking for fiscal sponsors to help support our mission and experiences.
If you’re interested in volunteering, contact volunteer@ofcolor.org. (If you’re interested in sponsoring our experiences, contact marissa@ofcolor.org.)
Want to stay involved through Future Front?
Keep up with what we’re up to—from virtual events to membership—here.
This interview was compiled and written by Future Front Communications Fellow, Eunice Bao.
The Front Market’s First-Ever Spring Season At Distribution Hall: 4,000 Visitors Later
On April 23 and 24, we took over Distribution Hall in Austin, Texas to produce the Spring ‘22 Season of The Front Market.
On April 23 and 24, we took over Distribution Hall in Austin, Texas to produce the Spring ‘22 Season of The Front Market.
Keep reading for a full look at the market’s impact—and a sweet taste of the weekend’s immaculate vibes.
HERE ARE 5 things that happened at the front:
✰ No. 1 —
We exhibited more than 160+ women and LGBTQ+ creators and small business owners across Texas.
✰ No. 2 —
We welcomed 4,000+ visitors at Distribution Hall (4,500, if you include dogs).
✰ No. 3 —
Thanks to donations at the door and the Good Cocktails Bar by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, we fundraised $2,000+ for our Creative Future of Texas Fund.
✰ No. 4 —
We hosted two parties around The Front Market to support causes we care about, including an Earth Day initiative with GOOD girls ATX, as well as a creative community fundraiser with _OF COLOR.
✰ No. 5 —
It took a team of 200+ people and four months of collaboration to create The Front Market for two days. The market’s buildout generated more than $10,000 in commissions and contracts for women- and queer-owned businesses and production teams in Austin.
WANT TO REMINISCE? BASK IN THE VISUAL RECAP.
All photos by Tess Cagle Photography (@tlcphotographyatx)
You can still keep up with the creators and small business owners who joined us, too.
Just head to thefrontmarket.com (click here) to tap into the Spring '22 Season lineup at anytime. You can also sink into why spaces like The Front Market matter. We dive deeper into what supporting our local creative and small businesses communities means at thefrontmarket.com/mindset.
Thank you to our sponsors, partners and friends.
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Thank you to our sponsors, partners and friends. ✰
It's crucial for us that The Front Market is more than lip service for women and LGBTQ+ voices in Texas. We would not be able to use the market as a space to nurture movements and causes we care about without support from our sponsors, members, staff, volunteers, friends and you. Thank you.
