“I started taking painting classes at the Art League Houston in 2016. I had just lost my first husband, and I needed a way to be creative,” Startz said. “When I moved to The Woodlands, I was simply looking for a space to paint.”
What she found was a space three times bigger than she needed. But rather than walk away, Startz saw an opportunity, not just for herself, but for fellow artists.
“I thought I could be a friend to the artists and give them a place to display their art,” Startz said. “So, I gave myself permission to sign the big lease.”
Nearly four years later, the gallery is thriving as a welcoming hub for regional and local artists, many of whom are featured in rotating exhibitions every two months.
“I wanted to create a space where local artists could showcase their work and visitors could imagine it in their own homes,” Startz said.
Making original, fine art accessible
That comfortable atmosphere is part of a bigger mission to make original art feel approachable and affordable. By thoughtfully designing a space where visitors can see how art seamlessly fits into their everyday lives, Startz aims to shift the perception that original art is only for the elite. Her goal is to show that anyone can enjoy and own unique pieces of art, no matter their budget.
To make original art even more accessible, Startz created the Unique Boutique, a section of the gallery where every piece is priced under $100 and small enough to fit into a shopping bag.
“I want to make art accessible to everyone, not just as something to admire in a museum but as part of their home and life,” Startz said. “Art should be something you feel connected to, and it doesn’t have to come with a large price tag.”
Additionally, Startz recently opened a small gift shop, featuring art-themed gifts and books that complement the gallery’s mission, providing visitors with more ways to bring art into their lives.
May’s exhibit: “Dreaming Through the Woods”
For May, the featured artist is EP Chiles also known as Emily Startz herself, with her solo show “Dreaming Through the Woods.”
“These pieces represent a woman who lives in a big city in a high-rise with helicopters and neighbors making noise, and she drifts off to sleep,” Startz said. “Once she’s asleep, she starts dreaming which takes her to a surreal place where lots of wonderful things happen.”
The reception for "Dreaming Through the Woods" will be held from 5-8 p.m. on May 15 at The Woodlands Art Gallery & Studios.
Classes offered
In addition to the exhibitions, The Woodlands Art Gallery & Studios is beginning to offer art classes, further enriching the community's connection to creativity. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, the gallery aims to provide opportunities for anyone interested in exploring their artistic potential.
The next art class is a still life workshop with artist Lauren Battistini from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. on April 19. Spots are limited, so be sure to register early to secure a place. To register, click the link here.
To stay updated on upcoming classes, follow The Woodlands Art Gallery & Studios on Facebook and Instagram, where they regularly post updates on new workshops.
Support local artists
The Woodlands Art Gallery & Studios is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
"It's important for the community to support local artists. They don’t have to go to Houston, New York or LA, there’s incredible talent right here in The Woodlands,” Startz said.
To learn more about The Woodlands Art Gallery, including details about the current featured artists and how to apply to rent space or become a featured artist, visit www.woodlandsartandstudios.com.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Chloe Chapel with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
