Texas Border Business

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By Roberto Hugo González

This year’s art exhibition at Edwards Abstract was bigger and more vibrant than ever. Held on Friday, July 19, the event saw the art gallery, Edwards Training Center and foyer come alive with the works of 22 talented artists. Special guests were treated to a VIP reception in the Edwards Art Gallery where they interacted with local artists, the Edwards team and community leaders. The evening was filled with delicious appetizers, live music and beverages, creating a lively and inspiring atmosphere that celebrated the artistic spirit of Edinburgh.

The dedicated artists and organizers of this successful event include Vivian Martina long-standing member of the Edinburgh Art Foundation. With over 12 years of experience, Vivian is a driving force in promoting local arts and culture and works tirelessly to create platforms for artists to showcase their talents. “I’ve been doing this for 12 years,” she says, reflecting on her journey. “We host art exhibitions. We’ve had many different ones and are currently focused on opening our new arts and culture centre in Edinburgh which is fantastic.”

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Vivian’s involvement with the Edinburg Art Foundation goes beyond simply organizing events. She has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant arts culture in the community. “I’ve been active in trying to promote our artists and help them maybe sell a little bit of art,” she explains. The Edinburg Art Foundation’s collaboration with Byron Lewis of Edwards Abstract has made several art exhibitions possible, including the recent show at Edwards Abstract. “Byron Lewis and Edwards have just been wonderful in supporting the arts,” she says, emphasizing the importance of community support in the arts.

The foundation’s other goals include opening a state-of-the-art arts and culture center in Edinburgh. “It’s the most beautiful and modern building ever,” Vivian says proudly. The new center will serve as a center for artistic expression and cultural exchange and reflect the foundation’s vision for a thriving arts scene in Edinburgh.

Vivian and the board are careful when selecting artists for the exhibitions. “We have a good list of artists and we send out letters or emails looking for artists who want to apply. They respond and can then participate,” she explains. Due to space constraints, only 22 artists could take part in the current exhibition. “The first 22 who contacted us were allowed to take part,” she adds, underlining the high demand and selective nature of the exhibition.

In addition to being a member of the committee, Vivian is also a passionate artist who works primarily with acrylics. “I love the bright colors and the dual culture here,” she says of her preferred medium. Her artwork often captures the essence of the Rio Grande Valley, featuring local flora and fauna such as palm trees, ibises, and chickens. “These are all originals, and I’ve done watercolors before. Now I stick with acrylics. I really like that, so that’s what I do primarily,” she explains, highlighting her evolution as an artist.

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Her move into art came after a successful career in business. “I had a job placement for several years,” Vivian recalls. After retiring, she felt drawn back to her artistic roots. “When you retire, you’re suddenly out of touch. You don’t know what’s going on. It was nice to get involved in something, and that’s what I did with art,” she explains.

For Vivian, art is more than just a job or a hobby; it is a fundamental part of her existence. “I see art in everything I do. Whether it’s just driving down the street and looking at houses or how people decorate their front doors,” she muses. Although Vivian has no formal artistic training, she has always been driven by her innate creativity and love of color. She firmly believes that art should be accessible to everyone, especially young people. “I would like to see more families attend art exhibitions and take their children. Children like art. Most of the time they enjoy it and want to participate,” she pleads.

Acrylic painting is a popular medium among many artists, including Vivian, due to its versatility and vibrancy. Acrylic paint, a fast-drying pigment medium suspended in an acrylic polymer emulsion, allows artists to work quickly and apply layers without long waits. “I love the vibrant colors,” echoes Vivian, appreciating how well the medium suits her artistic style.

The acrylic painting process involves several steps, from preparing the canvas with gesso, sketching the design, applying the paint, adding details and finishing touches. The quick drying time of acrylic paints allows artists to apply layers and achieve depth in their work. “I’ve always been very artistic; I admire art,” says Vivian, reflecting on her dedication to mastering this medium.

Acrylics are also popular because of their durability and ease of use. They are water-soluble, making them easy to clean, and once dry, they are water-resistant and less prone to fading. “Acrylics are great because they are easy to work with and have these beautiful, bright colors,” Vivian explains why she and many other artists are drawn to the medium.

Vivian Martin has been instrumental in promoting local art and artists through her work with the Edinburgh Art Foundation and her artistic endeavors. Her love of acrylic painting continues to advocate for greater family involvement in the arts, and her impact on Edinburgh’s cultural landscape remains profound and lasting. “Art is a part of life,” she says, and through her actions and creations she brings that belief to life.

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