2025 Midtown PRIDE Wrap

2025 Midtown PRIDE Wrap

This installation serves as a time capsule, a time machine, and a love letter to Houston’s LGBTQ+ community. Artist Angel Albarran shares, “The idea for ‘A Convergence of Eras’ sparked when I saw a photo of Ray Hill holding a teacup, and my immediate thought was, ‘Of coooourse!! Gay people love brunch!’ That whimsical connection launched a larger exploration of what it would be like to meet our heroes across time.”

 

The resulting piece fuses dynamic gradients, archival inspiration, and personal storytelling into a single visual experience that connects queer trailblazers with contemporary voices. Each letter spotlights an individual, a place, or a memory integral to Houston’s queer heritage from JD Doyle’s sonic archives and Annise Parker’s political trailblazing to the soulful heart of Montrose and the nightclub that once defined its rhythm.

Creator: Angelus Albarran

Area: Houston / Downtown

Contributor: Angelus Albarran

Source: Angelus Albarran

Uploaded by: Justin Patera

Copyright status: In copyright

Center for Mexican American & Latino/a Studies

2018 SMASH Loteria

2018 SMASH Loteria

In an innovative blend of traditional and contemporary gaming cultures, we embarked on a journey to rebrand Loteria. This exciting project sought to bridge generations and preferences, creating a unique and inclusive gaming experience for all attendees at PAX South 2019. By seamlessly integrating the beloved SMASH Bros characters into the Loteria universe, we aimed to capture the imagination of both die-hard fans and newcomers alike. The result was a dynamic fusion of gaming worlds that brought together diverse communities in the spirit of fun, competition, and camaraderie.

Creator: Angelus Albarran

Area: Houston / Downtown

Contributor: Angelus Albarran

Source: Angelus Albarran

Uploaded by: Justin Patera

Copyright status: In copyright

Center for Mexican American & Latino/a Studies

04 Sandy The Safety Bee - Pool Safety

04 Sandy The Safety Bee - Pool Safety

The Sandy the Safety Bee® Series is designed to provide a foundation for meaningful conversations about safety between young children and the adults in their lives who care about them. Jonah is a bit of a scaredy bear, but luckily for Jonah, Miss Sandy always shows up at the right time to help him get over his fears. She is kind, thoughtful, and always right on time to teach Jonah about safety. Book 04 teaches kids about pool/water safety.

Creator: Angelus Albarran

Area: Houston / Downtown

Contributor: Angelus Albarran

Source: Angelus Albarran

Uploaded by: Justin Patera

Copyright status: In copyright

Center for Mexican American & Latino/a Studies

2020 OUTsmart Zodiac Illustrations

2020 OUTsmart Zodiac Illustrations

My mission? To create a captivating series of illustrations that not only paid homage to the zodiac, but also mirrored the dazzling diversity of Houston’s LGBTQIA+ community. Each month throughout 2020, a new zodiac symbol would take center stage, reimagined through the lens of inclusivity. Drawing inspiration from my own vibrant circle of friends, I meticulously weaved intricate zodiac symbols, elemental motifs, and unique faces into each piece. The result? Dreamy, evocative portraits that resonated deeply with readers. This project became a testament to my artistic philosophy: where artistry and inclusivity collide, creating visually stunning works that hold significant cultural meaning.

Creator: Angelus Albarran

Area: Houston / Downtown

Contributor: Angelus Albarran

Source: Angelus Albarran

Uploaded by: Justin Patera

Copyright status: In copyright

Center for Mexican American & Latino/a Studies