Reporting Texas
News and features from UT-Austin's School of Journalism

Art From the Streets Takes a Creative Approach in Addressing Mental Distress 

This year’s show of works by homeless artists came as Art From the Streets achieved two milestones that signify new beginnings for the 32-year-old organization — settling into a permanent home that it moved into in 2021 and an expansion of its mental health programs. 
“Art from the Streets is no longer homeless,” AFTS development director Marla Johnson said, adding that having an anchor spot has been meaningful for the group and its artists, who rely on consistency in life.
Its studio is nestled within the confines of Canopy Austin, a multi-business complex in East Austin that has become synonymous with the city’s art community.
The group has also expanded its outreach program to address the mental health problems that affect its artists, such as conducting art therapy sessions. It started as a pilot program in July thanks to funding from the Texas Commission on the Arts and private donors.

‘Protect the Children’ Rally Clashes with Trans Rights Protesters

Dozens of people calling for legislators to protect American children from sex trafficking, ideological indoctrination and drag queen storytime competed with counter-protesters advocating for transgender rights at the Texas Capitol on Saturday. 


More News

Austin Joins Cities Around the World in March Against Human Trafficking

Peter Pan Aims for Historic Landmark Status Amid Property Ownership Change

Public Ed Advocates Want to Give Abbott’s School Choice Proposal the Boot(s)

At Barton Springs, a Celebration of Life and a Final Goodbye to a Tree Named Flo

Nahuatl, Indigenous Language of Mexico, Leaves UT Students with Another World View

Amid the Roar of Motorcycles, Veterans Find Comfort and Community

Soaked by pouring rain, a group of Harley Davidson riders’ fire up their engines and begin their journey to Heroes Memorial Park in Kyle. Undeterred by the adverse weather, this group of military veterans takes pride in their shared passion and cherishes the brotherhood they’ve developed.
 “As veterans, we always look forward to events like this,” said Allen Deaver, an Air Force veteran. 
The bikers and psychologists say rides like this can provide an invaluable community for veterans to connect with others with shared experiences.
 “I think veterans need to be around other veterans,” said Deaver,

Little Amal: A 12-Foot-Tall Puppet Visits Austin with a Larger-Than-Life Message

Children’s faces lit up as they looked up to the 12-foot puppet made of cane and carbon fiber with long brown hair made of Tyvek tied with a red string. Phones were raised in the air to capture the sight as “Little Amal” visited Austin for the first time to call attention to the plight of refugees around the world. 
“She’s made larger than life so that people also can look up to refugees,” said a programming associate for The Walk Productions.

Omitting ‘Rare’ When Ordering A Medium Rare Burger

UT Engineering Students on Track to Maintain Legacy of Longhorn Racing

Lawmaker Takes Aim at Texas Liquor Law

Senate Bill Would Create Texas Grid Security Commission