Reporting Texas
News and features from UT-Austin's School of Journalism
byMichelle Lavergne
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.
byAbby L. Johnson
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.
byMichael Nolan
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,
byIsabella McGovern
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.
