World Environment Day 2026 - Artist Talk and Reception

Celebrate creativity, community, and the planet at our Second Annual World Environment Day Art Reception & Mixer! 🌿✨ Join Houston’s vibrant environmental community for an inspiring evening honoring the people and organizations working to protect our wild places and wildlife. This year, we’re especially excited to celebrate the 55th anniversary of the Citizens' Environmental Coalition, recognizing their decades of leadership in fostering collaboration and connection across the region. We’re honored to welcome CEC Board President Amanda Kuhl, who will share special remarks as the organization marks it's 55 year anniversary! And yes—there will be celebratory cake and refreshments! 🎉 The evening will also feature acclaimed artist and designer Luana Rubin, joining us from Colorado. Known for her powerful textile art and visually stunning quilts, Luana’s work brings attention to critical issues including human rights, environmental justice, and wildlife conservation. In honor of World Environment Day 2026’s theme, “urgent climate action,” she’ll present her talk, “Art & Activism,” and showcase a curated selection of her pieces. Come mingle, be inspired, and celebrate the intersection of art and environmental action—we can’t wait to see you there! 🌎💚 PRESENTATION DESCRIPTION Art & Activism: Creating, Promoting & Supporting Activism Through Art Luana Rubin The arts are a powerful vehicle for activists to share their message, in a way that is inviting and thought-provoking. In a world where many of us feel frustrated and powerless about being able to make change, Art is a way to reach the viewer where they are at….to open the door and offer hope. One does not need to be an artist to participate in this trend. Curators, corporate sponsors, teachers, and those from all kinds of arts can participate in this movement. Writers, musicians, dancers, and makers can all participate by giving a voice and expression for those without the power to speak and be heard. Activists and non-profits can collaborate with artists to deliver a powerful message in a velvet glove. In this presentation, we will see many examples of activist art that convey a message, directly or indirectly. Luana will bring several examples of her own activist textile art, and share the stories behind each piece. Through photos and stories about creative activism, you will take home many ideas for your own activist path. Luana Rubin Biography: Luana Rubin has worked as an artist and designer in the garment, textile and quilting industries for over 40 years. She is a musician, wildlife photographer, world traveler and philanthropist. Her company eQuilter.com has raised over $2 million for a variety of non-profits. Her artwork has been shown at the United Nations in Geneva, NASA in Houston, Library of Congress, US Peace Institute, DAR Museum in DC, Carter Center, and Clinton Presidential Center…and in museums and galleries around the world. www.LuanaRubin.com [http://www.luanarubin.com/]