Lauren Luna

Greater Houston Area 

Lauren Luna, Sandy Toes, Oil paint, 2024

Artist Statement: “As an artist, I believe that representation matters. It is important for individuals to see themselves reflected in the world around them, including in art. That is why I am passionate about painting little black girls. Through my work, I aim to celebrate the beauty and joy that these young girls embody. Using a palette knife and oil paint, I create highly texturized paintings that capture the essence of these young girls. I believe that the texture adds depth and dimension to the paintings, helping to convey the emotions that the girls are experiencing. By painting little black girls, I hope to inspire others to see the beauty and value in all individuals regardless of race or ethnicity.. Through my work, I want to encourage young black girls to see themselves as beautiful and worthy, and to embrace their unique identities. Representation in art is crucial, and I am proud to contribute to this important conversation through my paintings. My hope is that my art will inspire others to see the world more inclusively and compassionately.”

Biography: Master painter Lauren Luna was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. She holds a bachelor and master degree in Fine Arts, focusing in painting. Commencing her professional artist career in New York City, and now living in Houston, she is “Your City Painter”, specializing in iconic city architecture and urban landscapes, and most recently, little joyful black girls.

Luna was named a Top 50 Entrepreneur by Scion Car Company, participated in Austin and Houston Fashion Week, was featured in British Vogue and Glamour Magazines, and included in an exhibit in the Grassi Museum in Germany. She received the Margot Siegel Award for Design by the Goldstein Museum of which her hand-painted shoes are a part of the museum’s permanent collection. She was also commended by the Alvin Independent School District School Board, and was placed into Congressional Record by the District’s State Representative. Throughout her tenure as a classroom art teacher and at the college level, to her participation in various Houston art events such as Bayou City Art Festival and Via Colori, leading to her murals, and other work being showcased everywhere from billboards to outside of KHOU television station, and culminating in the establishment of the D.R.E.A.M. Affect Foundation and correlating D.R.E.A.M. Art Scholarship, Lauren has worked tirelessly to promote art across the city of Houston as a means to improve the lives of the city’s residents, resulting in the proclamation of Lauren Luna Day, on July 11, 2020.