“Segundo Barrio”

In the Second Ward of Houston, TX | November 2024

This art exhibition was hosted by the Open Door Gallery in collaboration with the Divine Art Coalition. Opening night was debuted at Divine Art Coalition’s Segundo Barrio Block Party, held in the Second Ward of Houston, Texas. This event brings together the community in the East End as well as other Houstonians across the city. Below are photos of the Block Party and the exhibition. Thank you to the Divine Art Coalition for an opportunity to hold space together.

This group artist exhibition is a visual mapping of the celebration of resilient people, a rich culture and the withstanding history that has shaped Segundo Barrio. In a second iteration of the Open Door Gallery exhibition, El Barrio, this exhibition offers an intimate look at what makes Segundo Barrio a place of warmth, creativity and deep-rooted identity. The artists are not merely reflecting the neighborhood; they are part of its fabric. By celebrating the artistic contributions of those who live and work here, Segundo Barrio emphasizes the importance of preserving the cultural heritage of spaces like this—where the past and present intersect and where the future is constantly being shaped by the voices of those who call it home.

Like the changing landscape, a wide range of showcased art is represented from photography exploring the neighborhood’s ongoing transformation, love letters to the neighborhood archiving our shared collective consciousness, to surreal collages reimagining symbols of everyday life. The artworks guide viewers into the spirit of Segundo Barrio, a place where identity, community, and creativity thrive. 

Segundo Barrio welcomes you to walk its streets, meet your neighbors, and experience one of Houston's most historic neighborhoods. 

Curated by Raquel Natalicchio and Adrianna Audie Benavides