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“By being an active professional artist, I have a direct and positive impact on my art students, shaping their artistic journeys, nurturing their talents and instilling in them the belief that art is a viable and fulfilling career path.”

Lauren Luna, ’00, has made significant strides in the art industry, both as an accomplished artist and as a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion in the arts. Her contributions extend beyond her own artistic achievements to initiatives that uplift underrepresented voices in the art community.

Lauren founded the D.R.E.A.M. Affect Foundation in 2019 which focuses on organizing and curating an annual art show to showcase the talent of artists while raising funds for minority art students. The foundation’s mission is to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities within the arts community, ensuring that talented students from all backgrounds have the support they need to pursue their artistic dreams.

In addition to her work with the D.R.E.A.M. Affect Foundation, Lauren is passionate about art education. She believes in the power of sharing real-time experiences as a professional artist with her students. She provides insights, inspiration and guidance to her students, helping them navigate their journeys and encouraging their growth. Her commitment to education is reflected in the impact she has on her students as an adjunct art professor at Lone Star and San Jacinto colleges, many of whom have been inspired to pursue careers in the arts.

“By being an active professional artist, I have a direct and positive impact on my art students, shaping their artistic journeys, nurturing their talents and instilling in them the belief that art is a viable and fulfilling career path,” said Lauren.

Lauren’s artistic contributions have also been recognized by the City of Houston, which awarded her the prestigious honor of “Lauren Luna Day” on July 11, 2020. This recognition highlights her efforts to beautify public spaces in Houston through her art, making the city more visually appealing and fostering a sense of pride among its residents. Her public art installations not only enhance the aesthetic aspects of the city, but also create opportunities for community engagement and dialogue.

“Public art has the power to inspire, provoke thought and ignite conversations, ultimately enriching the cultural fabric of the society we live in,” said Lauren.

A vocal advocate for the importance of minority women in the art world, Lauren strives to create a more inclusive and diverse art community. She believes that art has the power to transcend barriers and bring people together. By advocating for art as it relates to fostering creativity, critical thinking and personal expression, she ensures that future generations have access to the transformative power of art.

Lauren is also involved with the Visual Arts Alliance (VAA) in Houston. As a member, she connects with other professionals in the field of visual arts for networking, collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional growth is evident in the workshops and programs she participates in, which she then shares with her students.

Her dedication to her craft, her students and her community exemplifies the profound impact that art can have on society. Through her work, she has achieved success, but also created opportunities for others to grow in the art world.