Houston-based patron Deborah Colton is known for her groundbreaking contributions to the global art scene. Her lauded gallery (deborahcoltongallery.com) is rooted in historical and visionary contemporary culture, featuring works from diverse artists and practices that inspire positive change both in the Texas art community and beyond—with a little extra love for Houston, of course. Here, Colton talks about her Holiday Pop Up exhibition, the Houston arts scene and so much more.
Maripol, “Pink Wig” (1983)
Tell us about your December exhibition.
We are celebrating a stellar year for our artists and the gallery. The featured artists are Jeff Wheeler and Paul Horn. Friday, Dec. 10, will include live music and our celebrity Santa, mega art patron and collector Lester Marks. Additionally, throughout the month of December most of the Deborah Colton Gallery inventory will be discounted.
What about the current Houston arts scene?
The city is really coming together in the arts to help Houston shine! I’m a co-founder of the new Houston Art Gallery Association (artgallerieshouston.com) and have been serving as vice president since we began. Also, the Houston Airport System is alive with incredible art by Texas artists. I am pleased that works by three of our artists were selected through our gallery. What a way to welcome Houston’s visitors coming to the city through our airports. Congratulations, Houston!
Alfredo Gisholt, “Night Studio - Ritual” (2020, oil on canvas)
What are your thoughts on the current arts landscape as a whole?
Since my family and I came back from Asia to Houston in 2000, I have seen the art scene get much more international and stronger. The city has also realized that it has an art history worth honoring and recognizing, especially in the past five years. As we grow in prominence as a major art city, this will become more and more important in telling our story.
Jonas Mekas, “John & Yoko BEDIN FOR PEACE, Montreal, May 26, 1969” (2013, archival photographic print)
What are you loving in the art world this year?
I am loving the emphasis on Black artists, and we have several that we have been featuring. Our current exhibitions (Houston Foundations) feature both Bert L. Long Jr. and Jesse Lott. Our February-to-April exhibition features Angelbert Metoyer. All of these artists’ works are outstanding.
Photography by: COURTESY OF DEBORAH COLTON GALLERY