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Gratitude may be invisible, but in the world of art, it takes on color, texture, and form. Each brushstroke, twist of metal, or sculpted curve is a quiet “thank you” - for the beauty we witness, the people who share it, and the community that makes creation possible. At the Dripping Springs Art League (DSAL), gratitude isn’t just a seasonal sentiment. It’s the underpainting of everything we do.
The Art of Connection
Artists often work alone, but they never create in isolation. DSAL’s mission has always been to nurture those connections: artist to artist, artist to audience, and art to community. When we pause to be grateful, we see how intertwined those relationships really are.
The DSAL Woo Woo Club sharing their creations.
Thank You to the Dreamers and Doers
If you’ve strolled through a DSAL market, you’ve seen gratitude in motion. It’s the adventurist artist sharing her art beyond her studio for the first time, the woodworker explaining how he carved local wood into a cup, bowl, or cherished keepsake, or the painter who donates their time to teach a class with kids and adults aching for more art time. Those moments remind us that generosity and creativity share the same DNA.This year, our gratitude extends especially to the dozens of volunteers who power our programs — the ones who carry tables before dawn, who design posters late at night, who turn “someone should” into “we did.” DSAL’s story is a patchwork quilt of their efforts. Without them, there would be no “Night to Inspire,” no public art installations, no socials and Clubs that foster the art community of Dripping.
Art as an Expression of Thanks
Art itself is an act of thanksgiving. When a sculptor molds clay, she honors the earth that gave it. When a painter captures a sunset, he thanks the light for pausing just long enough. And when a glass artist hangs their sun catcher just so, she captures the beauty of the sun shining through.Gratitude also reminds us to celebrate progress, not perfection; to find beauty in the journey not merely the destination.
The Gift of Community
Dripping Springs has always been more than a backdrop for our work - it’s a partner. We’re grateful for the spaces that welcome our work - from Rolling in Thyme & Dough and the Chamber of Commerce to the dedicated Dripping Springs’ galleries. We’re grateful to the City for inviting our partnership with the Stars of Dripping Springs, the Art Lounge at Songwriters, and the Art Markets at the Triangle. We’re grateful for a town that understands that art isn’t a luxury - it’s a language that deepens belonging.
DSAL Artist Brenda Gibbs introduces her art to curious onlookers.
Member art on display at the DSAL Gallery Room at Rolling in Thyme & Dough
The ripple effects are everywhere: students discovering confidence through art lessons, seniors finding new purpose after retirement, families spending Saturday mornings exploring markets together.Our gratitude also extends to those who may never pick up a brush or palette knife but believe in what art can do. When someone sponsors an exhibit, attends a gala, or simply tells a friend about an artist they met, they’re helping build a culture that values creativity. And that, in turn, strengthens the heartbeat of Dripping Springs itself.
Looking Ahead with Thanks
As we move toward the holidays, DSAL is already dreaming forward - expanding exhibits, nurturing young artists, and exploring the long-term vision of a dedicated arts space in Dripping Springs. Each new project begins with appreciation for what’s already been achieved and the trust our community places in us. Gratitude fuels ambition; it reminds us that growth is not about doing more, but about honoring what matters most.So this season, we invite you to practice your own art of gratitude. Attend a local show. Write a thank-you note to an artist who moved you. Share a creative afternoon with a child or friend. Or simply take a walk and notice the palette of colors the Hill Country paints each day.Because every expression of gratitude - large or small - adds a new hue to our shared canvas.
Our Thanks to You
On behalf of all of us at the Dripping Springs Art League, thank you for believing that art has the power to connect and to inspire. Thank you for supporting local makers, attending events, and cheering us on as we grow. We are honored to serve a community that understands that art, like gratitude, multiplies when shared.
May your season be filled with beauty, belonging, and the colors of appreciation.
The Leadership Team of your Dripping Springs Art League
Allison Buckner - Alison Cairns - Gretchen Edelmon - Steve FriedmanJennifer Friedman - Linda Moon - Amy Nelipovich - Starlia Phillips - Ivy Sheppard Tiffany Sierras - Celeste Perez Smith - Jenny Swannack
Learn more about our art programs and events at www.artindripping.com
