Art – Page 6 – Center for Law, Engagement, and Politics

Celebrating Creativity & Community: SHMM Annual Photo Contest

For the past 15 years, the Sam Houston Memorial Museum has hosted its Annual Photo Contest, inviting community members to showcase their skills and creativity in photography. It is one of many ways the Museum contributes to the community, and it’s one we look forward to each year!

This year, the participants were divided into two divisions: Amateur and Advanced Photographers, each with categories such as Floral, Animals, Action, Portraits, Fashion, Architecture, Cuisine/Food, and Sam Houston Museum & Grounds.

With LEAP being a multidisciplinary organization, students like myself have the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge in areas beyond our specific focus, including photography! Encouraged by newfound confidence in my photography, I decided to enter the contest.

SHMM Director Derrick Birdsall with Cinthia Villarreal, President of the LEAP Ambassadors

Photos were due a couple of weeks before the reception, so I had no idea what or who I was competing against. Blindly, I chose to enter the Animal category in the Amateur division (editor’s note: good call on the amateur category) with a photo of a hummingbird I photographed on a LEAP trip.

I also submitted a couple of photos in the Architecture category: one taken in Chicago last year and another in Playa del Carmen a couple of years ago.

Upon arriving at the reception, my jaw dropped. The room was filled with stunning photographs, and a large crowd gathered around to admire them. The evening began with remarks from Jude Routh, the museum’s curator of exhibits, who expressed appreciation for the over 400 submissions.

With great anticipation, she began announcing the winners of each category:

Amateur Division:

SHMM Grounds 1st place – Darlene Lee
Fashion 1st place – Darlene Lee
Floral: 1st place – Cheryl Best
Architecture: Richard Hunt
Cuisine: 1st place – Novalene Thurston

Action: 1st place – Jerry Hunter
Animals: 1st place – Jerry Hunter
Portraits: 1st place – Aiden Fritsche
Best in Show – Isabela Gonzales

Advanced Division:
SHMM Grounds: 1st place – Cade Crippin
Fashion: 1st place – Gary Readore
Floral: 1st place – Cade Crippin
Architecture: 1st place – Meghan Burton
Cuisine: 1st place – Gary Readore
Action: 1st place – Emily Day
Animals: 1st place – Veronica Lorine
Portraits: 1st place – Celeste Rickert
Best in Show – Emily Day

Although my photos didn’t win any prizes, I left the event feeling extremely grateful to be part of a community that appreciates art and celebrates the creativity and talent of others.

Congratulations to all the winners!

The Photo Contest Exhibit will be open to visitors from November 7 to December 22 at the museum’s Katy & E. Don Walker, Sr. Education Center. A special thank you to the Sam Houston Memorial Museum’s staff for hosting such incredible events that celebrate artistic expression and foster a strong sense of community among us all.

A Life in Art: The Murray Smither Collection

by Chrissy Biello

Murray Smither transformed Texas art through his many roles as an artist, gallerist, and private art dealer. His influence touched multiple generations of artists and collectors, leaving an enduring mark on the state’s creative community. The Murray Smither Collection, now exhibited at Sam Houston State University, presents an impressive array of Texas art spanning from the mid-twentieth century through the 1990s; this remarkable collection was made possible by Dean Ron Shields, Gallery Coordinator Frank Graham, and John Smither among many others.

The collection includes powerful work by Frank Jones, whose story captures Smither’s compassionate spirit. Their friendship began in the 1960s during the Prison Art Shows at Huntsville Penitentiary, where Smither served as a judge in the Prison Art Show and Jones was incarcerated. After awarding Jones first prize in 1964, Smither maintained their connection until Jones passed away in 1969.

Also featured were works by renowned artist James Surls, whose relationship with Smither began in the 1960s when Surls, then a student, showed Smither his artwork. Years later, Surls went on to exhibit his sculptures at the Smither Gallery on Allen Street in the 1970s!

Moreover, certain pieces caught our attention immediately. Saara gravitated toward an untitled work by Paul Schumann, admiring its elegant flowing blue water.

I found myself drawn to the inventive lamps and decorative items crafted from popsicle sticks and matches; their electrical plugs left me wondering if they might actually light up.

During the exhibition, Dr. Michael Henderson, Professor of Art and Associate Dean in the College of Arts and Media, spoke warmly of Smither’s legacy while acknowledging John Smither and the Smither Estate for their generous donation.

Linda Pease, beloved former director of the Wynne Home Arts and Visitors Center, shared stories of Murray’s giving nature. “He did not only give first and second chances, but third chances as well,” she recalled.

Artist Bill Haveron, whose work is in the collection, added his own testimony, describing how Smither’s introduction to James Surls and Charmaine Locke led to a life changing exhibition opportunity for him.

Further, one of the day’s highlights was spending time with Ralph and Linda Pease. Everyone was delighted to wish Ralph a happy 90th birthday (he had celebrated about a couple of months prior)! Not to mention, Linda wore an eye-catching piece that had us all amazed: a Pebworth necklace (Cinthia was speechless).

As always, we were reminded that, done well, art is more than just about aesthetics; it also brings people together. In addition to seeing the Peases and Dr. Henderson, LEAP Alum Victoria McClendon and her boyfriend Nick were there; President White was there, perusing the art and mingling with the crowd; Ken Holland, HISD Trustee, was there, in between other events planned for the day. It was a day of fun.

The Murray Smither Collection is more than just artwork; it tells the story of one man’s dedication to Texas art. Through these carefully curated pieces and the memories shared by those who knew him, we see how Murray’s genuine character and unwavering support helped shape generations of artists and their work.

Case Closed: Wrapping up Moot Court

Olivia Discon

The moot court competition in Fort Worth was a great experience that challenged our critical thinking skills (or the extent of them, anyways) and gave us a chance to grow as advocates. Fort Worth was the perfect host city, combining a world-class law school with a great cultural scene and history.

For the competition, we stayed at the Hilton in downtown Fort Worth, where President John F. Kennedy spent his final night—which was definitely not a good omen for our performance. The competition itself was held at Texas A&M’s School of Law, which happens to neighbor the Philip Johnson-designed Water Gardens.

As one of LEAP’s favorite architects, Johnson’s work always stands out, and the Water Gardens is an immersive way to experience architecture and ease both law students and moot court competitors’ nerves.

When we had time to explore, we made the most of it. We ensured to make a stop at the Richard Haas mural downtown in Sundance Square.

In the same area, we were lucky enough to stumble across works by James Surls…

…Lichtenstein, and Noguchi—all in one building! Just around the corner, we also found an Alex Katz…

…and Jesus Moroles sculpture.

One of my favorite stops was the Sid Richardson Museum, where we got an extensive look at the works of Frederic Remington and Charles Russell. Both are staples of Western art, but the range of their work was impressive. The museum also gave us a chance to try our hand at some art of our own, offering postcards for visitors to draw and send.

This ties to Remington, who was not well-versed in writing, and would use illustrations to communicate when words fell short. While some of us had more success than others (we’ll leave the details out), it was a fun and creative way to engage with the experience we shared at the museum.

The trip wasn’t just about law and art—we also enjoyed a range of food experiences. While I stayed on the safe side with a soufflé (my first, and it was great!), Maggie stepped up as the group’s culinary adventurer, trying calf fries, escargot, and quail all for the first time. One of the best parts of LEAP trips is the chance to try new things, and this trip was no exception.

After the competition ended, we headed to Dallas. We made a quick stop to see a giant eyeball sculpture…

…which was interesting to say the least, before heading to Thanksgiving Square, another Philip Johnson design.

The Square offers myriad interesting features, including a Norman Rockwell mosaic…

…a “ring of thanks,” which has an echo feature…

…and, of course, Johnson’s beautiful Chapel.

The spiral design, and the beautiful stained glass capture the “infinite upward reach of the human spirit”.

We ended the trip with a visit to Dealey Plaza, the site of JFK’s assassination. Seeing the Grassy Knoll and the surrounding area was a very fitting end to our adventures in DFW.

Overall, this trip showcased what LEAP is all about: taking multidisciplinary experiences—law, art, history, and food—and tying them together in a way that broadens our understanding and appreciation of the world. Fort Worth and Dallas proved to be the perfect destinations for this, with plenty of firsts, surprises, and connections along the way.

Dia de los Muertos a la Wynne Home Art Center

by Olivia Discon

This year, the LEAP Ambassadors had the opportunity to celebrate Día de los Muertos at the Wynne Home Arts Center in Huntsville.

The historic home was adorned with decorations, and tables were filled with traditional treats like sugar skull cookies, pan de muerto, and refreshments.

At the heart of the celebration was an ofrenda honoring Mike Countz, a beloved community leader and Justice of the Peace, whose memory was warmly celebrated.

Dahlia Harrelson opened the event…

…and she soon turned it to Dr. Crimm, a respected historian and community figure, who offered an in-depth look at the origins and meaning of Día de los Muertos.

She explained how the holiday blends pre-Columbian and Catholic traditions, centering on the idea that death is not an end but a connection to our ancestors.

Through ofrendas and symbolic decorations, families invite the spirits of their loved ones back, honoring their lives with personal items, favorite foods, and marigold flowers.

Dr. Crimm’s insights gave us a thoughtful look into the holiday, emphasizing that Día de los Muertos is about celebrating life and keeping memories alive.

Following Dr. Crimm’s presentation, we heard from Patti Countz, widow of Justice Mike Countz, whose ofrenda was displayed prominently.

She shared stories about her husband, painting a picture of his life and the impact he made on the community. Mike Countz was born in Orange, Texas, in 1951, and he moved to Walker County, where he became a star athlete and graduated from Huntsville High School in 1969.

After earning his BBA from Sam Houston State University, he built a distinguished career in criminal justice, starting with the Texas Department of Corrections and eventually becoming the Justice of the Peace for Walker County’s Precinct 2.

Known for his humor, his love for golf and poker, and his unwavering devotion to his family, Mike Countz was the ultimate “girl dad,” who proudly attended every recital, game, and family event.

His legacy extended beyond his public service; he was a beloved member of his church and community, a dedicated Elvis fan, and a friend to many.

His wife’s stories brought the ofrenda to life, filling the room with both laughter and fond memories of a man who gave so much to his family and community.

This event highlighted the Wynne Home’s role as a vital space for cultural education in Huntsville…

…giving students a hands-on connection to a meaningful tradition and an appreciation for the ways we honor those who came before us.

Thirty Years Later: Sam Houston Statue Still Standing Tall

by Chrissy Biello

Thirty years ago, David Adickes unveiled “A Tribute to Courage” – an iconic 67-foot statue of Sam Houston that has become a landmark in Huntsville. As a pivotal historical figure, Sam Houston left a legacy of resilience and integrity that has left a great impact on Huntsville. The installation of this statue has significantly boosted Huntsville’s tourism, contributing $8.5 million in local and state revenue this year alone.

Following our recent attendance at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum celebration, the LEAP students were honored to support another special Huntsville event: the 30th anniversary of Adickes’ towering Sam Houston statue, hosted by the Sam Houston Statue and Visitors Center.

Upon arrival, I immediately noticed the beautiful fairy lights that lined the path to the statue. While exploring the illuminated trail would come later, we first needed to attend to our duties. We had the privilege of welcoming many distinguished guests, including Mary Laura Gibbs, Mayor Russell and Tish Humphrey, and the celebrated artist himself, David Adickes, alongside his guest Linda.

Also, it was particularly special to see the two descendants of Sam Houston again, Lindsey Hughes and her mother, Penny.

The reception room, beautifully transformed by Tracy Chappell and her visitor center staff, provided an elegant backdrop for the evening.

They created a perfect atmosphere with carefully curated historical artifacts, mementos, and photographs from the statue’s inception, and an impressive charcuterie spread. A personal favorite of our group had to be the “Big Sam” cookies– they were almost too beautiful to eat!

Just as we had done the previous evening, we seized the opportunity to capture a photo with Mr. Adickes. He warmly agreed to join us in front of the designated “selfie area.”

To our great surprise, Mr. Adickes graciously signed miniature Sam Houston statues for each of us. We were absolutely thrilled by this personal touch, and it truly made the evening even more special.

The evening became even more memorable when Cinthia, Olivia, and I had the chance to take a photo with Miranda Estrada, the Economic Development Specialist for the City of Huntsville. As a former LEAP Ambassador herself and a former intern in the Economic Development Department while at SHSU, Miranda went on to become our supervisor during our own internships in that department. Having all of us together made for a heartwarming reunion and a reminder of how impactful the LEAP experience is.

As the celebration wound down, we finally ventured down the beautifully lit path to view the statue. We stopped for photos at the giant Sam Houston head statue along the way before reaching the main monument. This was only my second time seeing it up close – the first being when I was around one year old, a moment I recently discovered in my older sister’s scrapbook!

The girls could not resist photographing their newly signed miniature statues in front of the large statue (Olivia was especially eager to take photos of them taking photos!).

The night ended with us taking a group selfie with the impressive statue. Overall, the opportunity to meet Sam Houston’s descendants and to speak to David Adickes twice in one week made for two perfect nights in Huntsville!

An Evening to Remember: Celebrating Sam Houston’s Inauguration as TX President

By Olivia Discon

October 21, 2024, marked the 188th anniversary of Sam Houston’s inauguration as the first elected president of the Republic of Texas. It’s somewhat of a tradition for LEAP Ambassadors to volunteer, but this year’s event had a special twist, with a new Sam Houston Memorial Museum exhibit featuring Houston’s Executive “Mansion.”

As volunteers, we assisted in greeting guests throughout the museum. Michelle and Chrissy were tasked with driving attendees in golf carts from the parking lot to the museum. While their driving may have inspired a newfound appreciation for walking among some, the passengers arrived in good spirits.

The celebration was well-attended, with approximately 100 guests, including local figures such as Mac and Leanne Woodward, Michelle and Winston Spencer, Mary Laura Gibbs, Glynda Turner, former Mayor Jane Monday,Vice-President Matt Bethea, Dr. McCartney Johnson, Tabitha Shanley, Interim City Manager Sam Maisel…

…and Assistant Director of the Academic Success Center Heather Caudle.

And yes, Derrick Birdsall was there too.

One of the most exciting moments was meeting the renowned sculptor David Adickes, the man behind “A Tribute to Courage,” also known as “Big Sam.”

It’s safe to say we were star struck in more ways than one.

Once everyone had settled in, Matt Bethea, SHSU’s Director of University Advancement, gave opening remarks, discussing how the investment in university advancement strengthens SHSU’s position and puts it on a stronger playing field. His remarks highlighted the broader significance of projects like this exhibit for the university’s future.

Derrick then took the stage for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, offering a brief explanation of how the executive mansion exhibit came to life.

He shared the backstory of incorporating the mansion into the existing galleries, with help from local company Steely Lumber, which provided key materials for the project.

The exhibit itself is a interactive and fun representation of Houston’s life, styled after “an college student’s dorm room on a Monday night.”

It highlighted Houston’s well-known gambling habits and showcased his love for books, offering a balanced portrayal of both his vices and intellectual interests.

Another renowned artist, Lee Jamison, took the time to speak with us as well. His work can be found all over the state, and many of the LEAP Ambassadors—past and present—are huge fans of his distinctive style. A favorite of many is his painting of Old Main from his Huntsville at Night series. It was fun to hear him recount the many efforts that went into crafting the piece, including the detailed research into the stained glass windows. While I couldn’t help but feel a bit sad knowing I’ll never get to see the building in person, his painting offers the next best thing.

The Sam Houston Memorial Museum always puts on fantastic events, and for many of the students, it was their first time visiting the museum. It was truly an evening to remember!

An Afternoon of Laughter with LEAP: “Noises Off” at the Alley Theatre

by Michelle Cardenas

This past weekend, the LEAP Ambassadors, along with friends and alumni, took our regular trip to Houston for an afternoon filled with laughter, great food, and a little culture. Our destination: The Alley Theatre to see the farcical comedy Noises Off. These Houston outings have become something of a tradition for us—a chance to bond over good food and great theatre, and this time was no exception.

Before heading to the show, we made our first stop at POST Houston, a spot we frequent for its array of restaurants that cater to every craving. From sushi to burgers and international cuisine, POST has something for everyone. After fueling up, it was time for our traditional rooftop photo with the Houston skyline in the background—a moment we capture every time we’re in the area. The LEAP Ambassadors, a few friends, and alumni joined in for the photo op, including Michelle Lyons and her daughter Katherine Burnett, SHSU alum and former SHAIP intern Ashlyn Rodriguez with her husband, as well as Jacob Wessels and Yajaira Gutierrez. With full stomachs and a great group, we were ready for the play!

For those unfamiliar, Noises Off is a comedy about…well, comedy. It’s a play within a play, following a chaotic theatre troupe as they stumble (quite literally) through a performance. Having some theatre background myself, I was eager to see how close this farce would be to the real backstage antics I’ve experienced. Spoiler alert: it was spot on—and absolutely hilarious.

The play is structured in three acts, each highlighting a different stage of a theatre production.

The first act is the troupe’s final rehearsal before opening night, where the director desperately tries to smooth out the rough edges—particularly the constant confusion over a plate of sardines, which becomes a running joke. The second act gives us a behind-the-scenes look, with the audience seeing the backstage chaos unfold as the actors’ personal issues boil over. Doors are slamming, props are misplaced, and love triangles are revealed. And then, in the final act, we witness the disastrous final performance, where everything that could go wrong does. The actors are left to improvise their way through the script, which by now is nothing more than a series of disconnected lines and missed cues.

It was a joy to see our group laughing together, especially as some of us were familiar with the antics that come with putting on a play. Stephanie, in particular, has long been a fan of Noises Off, and by the end of the show, Yajaira had declared it her new favorite too. It’s no wonder—between the witty dialogue and physical comedy, the play is a masterclass in farce.

As we walked out of the theatre, we couldn’t help but keep laughing about the final performance scene—the sardines, the dropped lines, and the general mayhem. It was a perfect ending to a perfect afternoon. In fact, I think the sardines became their own character in the play! It was a delightful reminder that sometimes, when everything goes wrong, it makes for the best kind of theatre…and memories.

We can’t wait for our next Houston adventure!

Milling about in Little Rock

One of the pleasant things about Little Rock, AR is the mix of major museums and attractions and smaller, more intimate points of interest. Thus, after spending a few days attending a major book festival, visiting the Little Rock Central High Civil Rights Museum, and the Clinton Presidential Library, the LEAP Ambassadors prepared for a short respite at Old Mill Park in North Little Rock, AR.

The site is perhaps most famous as the last surviving set of Gone With the Wind (where it appears for approximately two seconds at the beginning of the film), but it is now a destination for any individuals or groups who want a beautiful place for photos.

The park has several bridges…

…several water features…

…an intriguing stone structure…

…and, of course, a mill, which is also a water feature.

For us, it was a pleasant way to spend an early evening, relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the Natural State.

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