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Celebrating its 20th anniversary, The Woodlands Waterway Arts Festival is a gem in the Texas fine arts scene, proudly ranked among the top arts festivals nationwide! Nestled along the picturesque banks of The Woodlands Waterway® and in Town Green Park, festival attendees can immerse themselves in a lively outdoor gallery showcasing authors, music, delectable food, and activities for children, all while exploring art from talented fine artists worldwide. Jury-selected artists present an array of unique and original artwork across various mediums at the festival. Recognized as the best event in The Woodlands, this arts festival has become a cherished springtime tradition for both families and locals.


"Balancing Boundaries"
Thomas Wargin

2025 Featured Artist

Artist Statement

This evocative sculpture, Balancing Boundaries, explores the tension between freedom and constraint, harmony and discord. The central figure, rendered in a dynamic pose, embodies human vulnerability as it contorts within a geometric steel cube—a symbol of imposed limitations. The cube is interwoven with tree branches, whose organic growth disrupts the rigid confines, suggesting nature's persistence and resilience against structural control.


The branches are adorned with tender green buds, signifying renewal and hope, while the contrasting presence of heavy stones reinforces the burden of societal or personal constraints. The figure’s precarious posture—suspended between growth and restriction—invites viewers to reflect on themes of adaptability, perseverance, and the interplay between human constructs and the natural world.


The sculpture masterfully juxtaposes contrasting materials: the cool rigidity of steel, the weathered texture of stone, and the organic fluidity of bronze. This interplay enhances the narrative of duality and transformation, making Balancing Boundaries both visually compelling and conceptually rich.


This work stands as a testament to the artist's ability to blend metaphorical storytelling with masterful craftsmanship, leaving the audience with a sense of introspection and awe.


thomas wargin

A sculptor from Wisconsin, Thomas Wargin brings over 25 years of diverse experience, spanning from collaborations with Fortune 500 companies to intimate creations in a small art studio. His career showcases a deep dedication to crafting impactful and visually captivating artworks.


The work in its entirety represents who I am, my interests, abilities, and what lies beneath my sub-conscious mind. My goal is to engage the viewer and stimulate the mind as well as their visual senses. I want the viewer to go to a place that they can only dream of or hope to be part of. I sometimes am intrigued by childhood stories and interpret these stories in a fashion that captures my viewer and stirs them into a new way of looking at the story.

Explore Wargin's sculptures : https://www.wargin.com/process

Featured Artist & Best of Show Winners


Each year, on the festival's opening day, a team of judges representing The Woodlands Arts Council reviews art from all participating artists to select a Featured Artist and Best of Show Winners. The judges are local gallery owners, art teachers, artists, and business professionals. Artists are scored on artistic merit and booth presentation. Prize winners are jury-exempt for two years and receive booth awards and other benefits.

2024 Best of Show Artists

Richard Bond

Richard Bond

Glass

Canada
 
Luis Gutierrez

Luis Gutierrez

Ceramics

North Carolina
 
Seth & Jana Coldren

Seth & Jana Coldren

Wood

Louisiana
 
J Howard

J Howard

Drawing / Pastels / Printmaking

Texas
 
Yanfang Inlow

Yanfang Inlow

Fiber

California
 
Suzanne Seiler

Suzanne Seiler

2D Mixed Media / Digital Art

Texas
 

Prospective Artist

We will notify you of upcoming deadlines for available Calls for Artists!
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