Open Studio Extravaganza | Unconventional Portraiture

CAMH Spring Break Drawing Outpost Artwork, 2026. Photo: Tasha Gorel Add to calendar Google Calendar iCalendar Outlook 365 Outlook Live About Explore the exhibition Mario Ayala: Seven Vans by participating in a variety of hands-on art-making activities focused on self expression, inspired by Ayala’s seven life-sized paintings of the backs of vans.Mexican Blackbird will be providing a live curated vinyl set, serving as a living backdrop to our Open Studio Extravaganza. As participants explore the exhibition and hands-on activities, Mexican Blackbird’s curated mix of vibrant, layered Latin sounds-spanning genres, eras, and regions-will reflect the richness and diversity of Latinx experiences reflected in the exhibition Mario Ayala: Seven Vans. Rooted in the cultural backdrop of Houston, Texas, the set will highlight the city’s deep, multifaceted Latin influence, using music to both ground the moment and amplify the stories and art being created in real time. Hands-On Activities Look Closely Using Drawing and Text Sharpen your observation skills through a drawing and text layering activity within the exhibition, Mario Ayala: Seven Vans.Roadtrip Playlist Explore the resources within the exhibition Mario Ayala: Seven Vans and collaborate in creating a community-driven playlist specifically for travel around or beyond Houston, Texas.Scavenger Hunt for Shapes and Patterns Explore the exhibition, Mario Ayala: Seven Vans, through a scavenger hunt of shapes and patterns within Ayala’s seven life-sized paintings of the backs of vans.ID Card Collage Create a personalized ID card inspired by Mario Ayala’s imaginative visual vocabulary of commerce and counterculture in the exhibition Mario Ayala: Seven Vans. About Mexican Blackbird Mexican Blackbird shares her Afro-Tejana roots one record at a time. Raised on Houston’s south side, her vinyl crates blend Funk, Cumbia, Soul, Salsa, Tejano, Corridos, and beyond. Inspired by a box of records from her grandmother, she began DJing local venues in 2011 and has since spun across Texas and Louisiana. She’s the only all-vinyl DJ in Tropical Bass crew BOMBON, curating vibrant sonic spaces for all to enjoy. About Open Studios CAMH’s Open Studio sessions feature drop-in, hands-on activities that draw inspiration from the exhibitions on view. During these sessions participants will have an opportunity to explore imaginative concepts inspired by world-renowned artists who show at the Museum by making your own artworks in response to theirs. Experiment with new materials, explore fresh ideas, and make new friends. Whether you stay for five minutes or two hours, you’re invited to interact with art in new and profound ways at Open Studio. Regularly scheduled Open Studios occur the first Saturday of every month. All ages are welcome; admission is always free. Upcoming Programs View Calendar