I have the distinct honor to be the Fiesta San Antonio Poster Artist for 2023.

We moved back to Texas just prior to Fiesta 2021 after having lived all over the US and a few places in Europe for my husband’s military career in the Army. We immediately felt such a warm welcome from everyone in San Antonio.  It was as if the city flung open the door and welcomed us into the party! That feeling of welcome was the inspiration for the painting, “Come on in!”. This painting then motivated me to submit an entry in the 2023 Fiesta Poster competition. I am grateful for this opportunity to tell the story behind the painting.

I started with the bright glow coming from the doorway to convey the warmth of the people of San Antonio. The door itself is based on a courtyard door at the McNay Museum because of its beautiful classic Spanish-Colonial Revival tile and iron work. The tiles on the painting showcase symbols that every Texan will recognize. The key stone is the date of the first Fiesta, 1891, surrounded by the crowns of King Antonio, Rey Feo, the Queen of the Order of the Alamo and Miss Fiesta featured near the top of the archway. The peacocks and unit patch of 5th Army represent the Army while the training jet represents the Air Force, both historic partners with Military City USA. The Six Flags of Texas are along the step of the threshold. The Texas State flag and the Fiesta Commission flag flank both sides of the doorway. Yellow roses, a horned toad, a mockingbird, magnolia blossoms, bluebonnets, crepe myrtle, and a pecan tree surround the door and steps. Party lights and papel picado flags drape across the top of the doorway to let you know “This is where the party is so COME ON IN!”.

I am humbled and thrilled to become a part of the history of San Antonio by joining the list of local artists whose works have been chosen to represent the heart and spirit of Fiesta.

We love it here so much that we have decided to stay and have plans to open an Art Gallery in the King William Cultural Arts District this summer!

Official Fiesta® Merchandise is on sale NOW!

We can't wait to see everyone in their Fiesta® gear this year!

Shop General Fiesta® Merchandise (posters, t-shirts, caps, tote bags, etc.): https://vivafiesta.com/ The Prestigious Mark

Shop Fiesta® Medals: https://www.fiestamedalssa.com/

Monarch Trophy Studio

FIESTA MEDALS by MONARCH TROPHY STUDIO

I earned a BFA in painting from Abilene Christian University and an MBA from the University of Texas, Austin. I have been a working artist for more than 30 years. My passion is for creating beautiful, enduring art that brings people joy.

• Commissioned Original Art- If you would like to commission a portrait to commemorate a special event, a loved person or pet, or favorite home or landscape, please contact me for pricing and options. I will create an original work of art in oil, watercolor, acrylic, charcoal, or mixed media. Each medium has a unique look, feeling, and price point. I will consult with you about your specific requirements and create original art perfect for you and your space!

• Murals- If you are interested in a mural for your business, on an interior wall or the outside of the entire building, I can do that too! Contact me for a consultation about what is possible for your space, timeline, and price point.

• Work for purchase- If you are interested in work you see here in the gallery, some of these are also available for purchase.