Art Squared Market sizzling in July

The heat may be on when the Art Squared Arts Market returns on Saturday, July 14, but it is always a cool place to visit. Taking place at the Hays County Courthouse lawn in downtown San Marcos from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., this free event features dozens of artists exhibiting and selling their works, as well as live music from 1 to 3 p.m.

The featured artist for the month of July is Thomas Myer. Trained as a machinist, Myer has worked in that capacity for the past 13 years. When asked what inspired him to create jewelry, he said, “A few years ago, an artist friend jokingly told me I didn't have an artistic bone in my body. I took that remark as a personal challenge. Now making art has now become my passion, though I still also work as a machinist.”

Through his business, Outlaw Artisan Jewelry, Myer creates fine jewelry from diverse objects, primarily antique silverware, coins and bullet casings. 

When asked how he acquired the artistic skills needed to move into this field, he replied, “I’m almost entirely self taught; I watch YouTube videos and carefully look at the works of my peers.” He then quickly adds, “A friend did teach me how to solder.” 

Myer continues to build his skill set, branching into new areas of artistry; recently he began making silver wire jewelry and is also working on several sculpture projects. He believes that his works embody the spirit of Texas.

Myer, a self-taught artist, uses his background as a machinist to create unique jewelry out of everyday objects, like this ring made from a coin.

The Jult featured musician is Daniel Driver. Born and raised in rural East Texas near the Louisiana border, Driver is heavily influenced by the beautiful piney woods. He now lives along the San Marcos River outside of Martindale. Come listen to tales of love and gumbo, loss and jambalaya, and of heartbreak and chicken-fried steak. 

This month's featured community organization is Prevent a Litter (PALS) of Central Texas. PALS of Central Texas is a valuable nonprofit organization whose mission is to help end pet overpopulation and pet homelessness. PALS offers a variety of services including access to free spaying and neutering assistance for trapping of feral cats, a cat adoption program, and the annual  Pet Fest – a free annual community education event, set for Oct. 20 this year.

Also available this month are free activities. Children can explore their creative side at the Kid’s Craft Table. They can experience a different art activity that will stimulate their creativity and allow them to create a unique piece of art. The Kids’ Craft Table is free and open to kids of all ages!

Enjoy T’ai Chi with local teacher Margaret Falletta at 9 a.m. on the courthouse lawn. T’ai Chi is a slow, gentle martial art form which originated in China and has been practiced for hundreds of years. Falletta’s emphasis is on the health benefits T’ai Chi provides – increased mental focus, decreased stress and better body balance. Take this opportunity to experience T’ai Chi for yourself.

Clear out unneeded art and craft supplies and bring them to the Art Supply Swap, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. inside the courthouse. Trade them for something different or simply donate them for others to use. All items should be in good condition, from a smoke-free environment, and placed in small containers or clear plastic bags.

Art Squared takes place on the second Saturday of every month between March and December. It is sponsored by the San Marcos Art League and funded through memberships, donations and the San Marcos Arts Commission.