March 2025

"Impactful" is a powerful group exhibition featuring the work of members from the Professional Artists of Central Texas, where each piece was specifically chosen for its impact on the viewer. In this show, the artists explore the myriad ways in which art resonates on a personal and societal level, provoking reflection, inspiring change, and sparking emotional responses. From visual storytelling to abstract expression, each work in the exhibition speaks to the unique ability of art to influence our thoughts, stir our emotions, and even shift our perspectives on the world around us.

Art has the power to bridge gaps, to highlight shared experiences, and to give voice to stories often left untold. It encourages us to look beyond the surface, to ask questions, and to confront our assumptions. The works in "Impactful" invite the audience to engage deeply with the narratives unfolding in front of them

Whether through vivid colors, raw emotion, or intricate details, "Impactful" is a celebration of the transformative role art plays in shaping not just individual perspectives but also the collective consciousness. It's a reminder of how art can move us, connect us, and leave a lasting imprint on our hearts and minds.

ARTISTS OF THE PACT

JOE BARBIERI

Drawing since childhood, Joe Barbieri took art classes in high school and studied drawing and anatomy at Nassau college in New Your and Northlake College in Texas. But it wasn't until 1992 that he discovered the joy of painting and the opportunities it afforded to communicate with others.

Though primarily "self-taught," he attributes much of his progess to the help of many knowledgeable friends. He also studied under CA artist Ron Riddick in his "Painting with a Passion" workshop and was the only artist from that workshop to receive a full scholarship for Research and Development to the Prix de West Invitational Exhibition at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Since 1998 Joe has worked with Stanton Glasds Studio in Texas where he paints one of a kind stained glass pieces for for churches, hotels, museums, and private residences throughout the U.S.

Joe's stained glass and award winning watercolor and oil paintings have been purchased by individuals, collectors and museums across the Southwest and overseas. His work has appeared in the Mountain Oyster Show, the Peppertree Show, the Salon International Show, the Phippen Museum Show, the Bosque Art Classic, Settlers West Miniature Show and Trailside Galleries Miniature Show. He is represented in galleries throughout the Southwest.

He Walks Alone

Oil 16" x 12"

Framed $975

Contrasts

Oil 9" x 12"

Framed $ 700

You Ready For This?

Oil 12" x 16"

Framed $975

JOANNA BURCH

As an artist, I often reflect on why we are drawn to certain subjects and how our personal vision shapes the way we present them. Art is such an individual expression—our interests, perspectives, and the elements we wish to highlight vary greatly. Some artists may focus on subject matter, while others are inspired by color, lighting, or even the vantage point from which a subject is viewed.

For me, inspiration often begins with patterns. Whether they emerge through colors, repeating shapes, or the rhythm of lines, such as interwoven branches, patterns captivate me. When composing a piece, I strive to ensure that not only the primary elements but also the negative spaces (background shapes) hold visual interest. These elements must work together to create harmony in the composition.

Realism is the foundation of my work, and I currently use oils, watercolors, and oil on porcelain. Recently, I’ve revisited colored pencils, which has added new layers to my practice. I paint all subjects except landscapes, finding endless inspiration in the interplay of forms and details.

My journey as an artist began early in life. With a strong foundation in the arts fostered by my family, I was lucky to have my parents' encouragement. My mother once submitted one of my crayon drawings to a Superman coloring contest hosted by a local newspaper. To my surprise, I won—and that became the spark that ignited my passion for art.

Looking back, I feel deeply grateful to pursue a career in something I love. Being an artist is both a gift and a blessing. Every piece of art is a contribution to the wider dialogue of creativity, and each of us brings a unique perspective to that conversation.

Glass Pumpkin and Silver Creamer

Oil on Porcelain 8" x 10" $ 625

Boots and Hat Band

Oil on Canvas 11" x 14"

$ 980.00

Crabby House Hunting

Oil on Porcelain 14" x 10" $980.00

DARIA DEGA

For most children born in Russia, a country with a deep, versatile history and tradition in the arts, art is an integral part of their childhood. Like most Russian children, she was raised attending museums and concert halls and going to ballet and classical music concerts.

But Dary may have fallen even deeper in love with the arts at an early age, thanks to traveling extensively throughout Europe as a child with her father, a renowned scientist, and the rest of her family. Throughout her travels, she learned more about the fine arts and their beginnings at every turn. That early passion remained fervent for Dary, who would later graduate from art school and music school while also pursuing a career in medicine and graduating as an MD and Ph.D. in Neuroscience.

In 2013, Dary moved with her husband to Central Texas because he had assumed the position of physics professor at Texas A&M University. Following the move to Texas, Dary's lifelong love of art inspired her to launch a unique gallery in her new home in Aggieland. Her dream was to build a space that would allow every artist of every age, at every talent level, to express themselves.

In 2023, Dary graduated from graduate school at Northwestern State University with a Major in Art with a Solo Graduate Exhibition, "The Story of Women's Self Portraits Through Centuries and Styles." From 2024, she continue her graduate program in Museum Study at Harvard University.

Artworks of Dega regularly participated in national and international art exhibitions and won competitions.

Award-winning artist. Highly experienced manager. Art gallery and art studio Degallery business owner. Founder and director of not-for-profit art organization DEGA International Art Association.

When I create art objects from clay, I delve deep into my emotions and feelings, expressing them in every detail. The object's shape, color, and volume are the profound energy of what I feel as an artist and a neuroscientist. I sculpt from clay an emotion, not a functional object. Each of my works reflects my thoughts at the moment of creation, a part of me, a part of my soul, and a part from the depths of my heart. They are a journey into my emotional depth, a connection I want to share.

Water Illusion

Ceramic Set $250

11”x6”x6” and 8”x8”x4”

Multicolored Splashes

Ceramic Set $250

13”x14”x5” and 8”x5”x4”

LINDA FILGO

A lifetime filled with the love and joy of art...

Linda began drawing at a very early age and for 25 years she was a professional designer, illustrator, art director and managing editor, in the advertising, fashion, health education and publishing industries. Eventually Linda gleefully abandoned commercial art to devote herself to her true loves, painting and drawing. She has studied with many nationally known artists. With exposure to each of these gifted teachers, Linda's art has evolved into her own unique style of joyful expression.

Linda has been juried into the prestigious Bosque Art Classic and several local and regional art shows, as well as galleries; she has won Best of Show, First and Second Place in a number of exhibits and competitions. An active member of PACT (Professional Artists of Central Texas), Linda lives in Waco, Texas, near her childhood home, amazing grandchildren and a colony of feral cats.

Lunch on the Go

Oil

9" x 12" $200

Rockrose

Oil

16" x 12 " $200

Pottery

Oil

12" x 16" $200

Dr. CAROL FOX HENDRICHS

At its core, my art creates visual dialogue that speaks to the heart, inspiring reflection and connection with both the seen and the unseen.

Through my work, I explore the delicate balance between reality and imagination. I combine my original photography with digital brush strokes and carefully crafted textures, blending the tangible world with abstract, expressive elements. This very intentional integration allows me to create and share my vision beyond the boundaries of the lens, transforming what is seen into what is felt.

Each piece provides more than a visual representation. They all offer an emotional experience. Through layers of color, texture, and light, I aim to evoke a response that connects with my collectors on a personal level. Whether it's the subtlety of a soft texture or the boldness of a digital stroke, my art invites you to see the world through a lens of emotion and perception.

Milkweed Botanical

Integrated Digital Art

27" x 17"

$275 Framed

White Ibis Flyby

Integrated Digital Art

16" x 20" $200 Framed

Autumn in the Swamp

Integrated Digital Art

12" x 20" $200 Framed

My artistic journey began in South Korea, where I first explored painting at the age of seven. After immigrating to the United States in 1997 for graduate studies, I earned a PhD from Texas A&M University and briefly worked as a research scientist and lecturer. However, my passion for art never waned. In 2011, I returned to painting with renewed focus, and in 2012, I discovered watercolor batik—a technique that became central to my work. This method, blending watercolor and wax resist on delicate rice paper, led me to experiment with textured mulberry paper, which mirrors nature’s intricate patterns. Over time, I developed a distinctive layering process, alternating soft washes with vibrant hues and wax applications to create depth and spontaneity.

Rooted in both Eastern and Western influences, my work reflects my heritage and artistic evolution. Inspired by Korean oriental painting and Japanese woodblock prints, I incorporate simplified landscapes and organic motifs while integrating Western techniques such as negative space and optical color mixing. This fusion of traditions allows me to create luminous, layered compositions that celebrate the essence of nature. My paintings capture vivid colors, intricate textures, and dynamic forms, inviting viewers to connect deeply with the natural world.

HAILEY HERRERA

Currently based in Texas, I draw inspiration from its diverse landscapes, focusing on its vibrant flora and striking geological formations. As an honored Centennial Painter for the Art of Texas Parks project, I aim to evoke both appreciation and a desire for preservation through my work. My art has been exhibited in major institutions, including the Bullock Museum in Austin and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Constantly experimenting across mediums such as watercolor batik, acrylics, and ceramics, I continue to explore the balance between reality and abstraction, ensuring that each piece remains both meaningful and visually captivating.

Afternoon Feast

Watercolor batik

18" x 24" $2300 Framed

Blue Water Lilly 2

Watercolor batik

18" x 16" $ 185 Framed

Coy Coi

Mixed media digital

12" x 16" $185 Framed

Gentle Wish

Watercolor batik

18" x 24" $1800 Framed

KEVIN MALONE

"I see the beauty in God's creation, and I have a passion to capture it in my paintings. Many of my paintings are centered upon Biblical themes whether it be God's people, animals or His magnificent world in which we live. I especially enjoy creating oils and watercolors of people and animals that captures their personality and spirit. I take great pleasure in creating permanent 'snippets of memories' in the subject's life to be enjoyed by them and their families for years to come. Portraying the light and color of God's handiwork by painting landscapes of places and subjects in Texas and around the world are also in my repertoire."

After many years of concentrating on family and his career, in 2016, he felt God calling him to begin painting again. His heart is now full of inspiration that only God could provide. He likes working in oil and watercolor mediums to create his works of art.

He and his wife, Frances, have relocated to downtown Waco where Kevin has gotten new inspirations.

The Old Tree Swing

Oil

28" x 28" $ 650 Framed

Be Still

Oil

14" x 41" Framed $375

Peachy, Pearls, and Lace

Oil

12" x 16" Unframed $395

Kurt is a graduate of American University in Washington, DC with a Fine Art degree in Studio Art and a concentration in painting. After completing training in the Army Reserve, Kurt became an Art Teacher in Arlington, Virginia public school system teaching Art, Photography, Art History and Graphic Design.

Kurt cal called up to active Duty in 2001 serving two combat tours in Iraq and two combat tours in Afghanistan receiving four Bronze Stars. Retiring from the Army in 2020, he has turned his focus toward painting and capturing nature.

Kurt is a figurative painter. Many of his subjects are local scenes.

KURT RITTERPUSCH

I grew up in Maryland, Illinois, Virginia and New Jersey. Graduated from American University in Washington, DC in 1992 with a Fine Art degree in Studio Art and a concentration in painting. Shortly after graduation I enlisted in the Army Reserve and was later commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army Reserves following Officer Candidate School.

Shortly after completion of training, I returned to Arlington, Virginia became an Art Teacher in the Fairfax County Public School system. I taught Art, Photography, Art History and Graphic Design from 1994 through 2001. During the summers I would intern as a graphic designer at a local firm and work at the Fairfax County Art Institute.

All the while, I was an Army Reserve Officer. I taught my last day of classes on 11 September 2001 as I was called to active duty and remained on Active Duty until 31 December 2020 when I retired from the Army.

I was deployed four times. I spent two combat tours in Iraq and two combat tours in Afghanistan, receiving four Bronze Star medals. I was also decorated with the Legion of Merit. During those days of service to our nation art was never far from me as I sketched and drew frequently during those times.

Now that I am retired, I turn my focus toward painting and capturing nature. I created the name of the studio honor of my wife (Barb), my service in the Army (barbed wire) and my connection with Texas (a cattle brand name).

I paint to glorify God and magnify Christ.

Pleasant Pheasant Patrol

Oil

24" x 48" unframed $ 1800

JUDI SIMON

Judi Simon is a professional illustrator, graphic designer and medical artist whose career spans over 40 years in the commercial art, health education, medical illustration and consumer products fields.

She is a representational artist who specializes in fine art oil and watercolor painting with a wide range of still life and portrait subjects.. She has exhibited throughout Central Texas and has taught painting in Texas and Arizona. She is a member of the Professional Artists of Central Texas (PACT), International Porcelain Artists and Teachers (IPAT), and a former member of Oil Painters of America (OPA). She has been in numerous juried shows and has won several distinguished awards for her unique painting style. She has had 2 solo shows, one in Abilene and one in Temple, Texas, along with a two person show at the Breckenridge Fine Arts Center in Breckenridge, Texas. She was also selected as a participating artist in the Texas Art Connection art book of current Texas artists available through Amazon.

As a career medical illustrator, I have always been a technical, representational artist yet over the years, have developed eclectic tastes in painting subjects and how we traditionally view them. I am drawn to detail and how light and shadow visually affects objects and color within a still life, portrait or landscape, no matter what angle. I try to create depth and excitement in a painting by balancing the lights and darks within the colors and the overall composition. My goal is to draw the viewer into a painting and to spend time enjoying that painting.

Hail Damage

Oil on Board

12" x 12" Framed $1350

Games We Used to Play

Oil on Board

10" x 20" Framed $2150

Left Over Ham and Eggs

Oil on Board

16" x 16" Framed $2150

SUSAN SISTRUNK

Currently residing in Kempner, Texas, Susan L. Sistrunk has created art from an early age. She began professionally selling her works at the age of 18. After completing her Bachelor of Fine Art in Studio Art at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton, Texas, Susan began a career in Arts Education. In conjunction with teaching positions at the Methodist Children’s Home, J.H. Hines Elementary and McLennan Community College (all located in Waco, Texas), Susan has continued to pursue her career as a professional artist. She continues to show work locally, regionally and internationally. In 2019, Susan opened an art gallery in Waco, Texas. After closing the Susan L. Sistrunk Fine Art Gallery in September of 2023, Susan now focuses on her own art work and writing, including her first book, “Echoes in the Gallery”, slated to be published later this year.

Icy Wonderland

Oil on Canvas

16" x 20" $ 650

Sunrise at Fort Parker

Oil on Canvas

24" x 12" $ 450

Springtime in the Country

Oil on Canvas

24" x 36" $1550

CHESLEY SMITH

Chesley Smith was born in central Texas om 1045. He is a long-time artist currently focused on non objective paintings, collage and recycle weavings. His substantial body of work include painting, pencil, pen and ink. He graduated from Jarvis College with a Bachelors' degree in art education and later earned a Masters degree while teaching art education at Paul Quinn college in Waco, Texas. During his twenty-years tenure at Paul Quinn College, Chesley traveled extensively, exhibiting his work nationally and internationally.

GROOVEY GUITAR

Paper collage

26" x 20" $350

BOY WITH DOG

Paper collage

18" x 22" $250

SUSAN STERLE

Art is a visual love language that helps me communicate the importance of the people, animals, places, landscapes, and experiences in my life. As I paint and draw it teaches me about the gift of life and what God presents to me. It is my way to share what I see and experience.

From her studio in a one-hundred-year-old house, she restored in the historic district of Downtown Temple, Texas. Susan is creating images of the things she loves using oil and canvas. A graduate of the University of Texas in Austin with a fine art and graphic design degree she has been painting and drawing from a very early age. Plein air, studio work, and commission work are part of her art journey, and she especially enjoys painting animals. Retired from a 30-year graphic design career she teaches art and workshops and works as a freelance graphic designer and photographer. She also hosts guests at her Airbnb, located upstairs above her studio.

Whenever she has a chance, you will find her enjoying nature, painting outdoors, biking, fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying playtime with her miniature dachshund, Sophie, all the time scouting for the perfect location for her next Plein Air Creation.

Peach Season

Oil on linen

12" x 24" $800 Framed

A Sunny Day

Oil on Wrapped Canvas

1" x 4" $ 1250 Unframed

Hill Country Barn

Oil on Linen

6" x 18" $ 550 Framed

Melanie M. Stokes

Melanie M. Stokes was born in Macon, Georgia, grew up in Statesboro, graduated with B.A. in Communications from Shorter College in Rome, Georgia and earned an M.Ed. in Art Education from Georgia Southern University. Retired from 26 years of teaching in Georgia public schools, twenty of those as an Art Teacher, she now pursues her passion for painting in her Central Texas studio, inspired by the surroundings of their home on 29 acres near Mart, TX.

Melanie and her husband, Steve, relocated to the Waco Area in 2018, to be near family and grandchildren. Juried memberships in Outdoor Painters Society and Professional Artists of Central Texas (PACT) have provided opportunities for group shows and new artist friends. The big Texas Skies have captured her attention and paintbrushes for the last few years!

"Painting is something I not only enjoy doing, but something I need to do. It is a language of color and tone that brings richness to my soul. It becomes a spiritual act of worship while I marvel at the beauty of Creation. It is an expression of what I choose to see and process in this world.”

GLORY FILLS THE SKIES

Oil on Gallery Wrapped Canvas

30" x 24" $780

SKIES WILL CLEAR

Oil on Gallery Wrapped Canvas

A triptych (two panels 40x20 each, third panel 36x12) $3200

CHARLES WALLIS

Charles Wallis is a graduate of the Baylor University fine art program. He is master painter trained in the classic tradition. He is versatile in a variety of styles and media. He paints in a traditional realistic style, as well as impressionistic, abstract. He has earned over 50 awards including Best In Show, First Place and more. He was recognized by The Texas House of Representatives for his contribution to art.

My art is an expression of my spirit to the spirit of others that connect with it.

I seek to create a memory, a wish, a fantasy or moment of joy or peace in the soul of the viewer.

I pursue ideas, color combinations or images that attract my attention and paint them as an impression; or abstraction and some paintings are just for the fun of presenting something in an unusual manner.

CHARLES WALLIS

A Beautiful Soul Emerges From A Dark Place

Acrylic

16" x 20 $400

Canadian Geese

Egg Tempra on Board

8" x 10" $250

The Lily Pad Pond

Acrylic

16" x 20" $475

BARBARA FONTAINE-WHITE

Experiencing the land is a physical experience that requires engagement from theparticipant. Painting the landscape is a related experience that forges a connection between the work of art, the artist who made it and the person looking at it. These conversations become part of the human experience that recognizes our humanity and connectedness to the earth. From my perspective, landscape viewed as a metaphor for the human condition explores the relationship of humankind to the earth.

As a child and young adult, Barbara Fontaine-White always identified with the land.

Born in Troy, New York in the Hudson River Valley, she views the landscape as a physical experience. She sees her work as a multifaceted conversation between herself, the viewer and the painting she creates.

Fontaine-White taught painting and drawing at the university level for over thirty years. She retired in the spring of 2022 from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and now works as a full time artist. She is also president of the Harker Heights Arts Council working to expand art experiences within the community.