In this workshop, explore the universal experience of self-moderation, what we cut out of ourselves to fit in or feel safe, how to express our hidden narratives, and how being vulnerable makes our work more compelling and resonant. Participants will be guided in creating a watercolor painting that explores their hidden narrative and are encouraged to share part of their story using their art.

Drew Riley is an award winning, transgender artist based in Austin, TX who uses portraiture and storytelling to explore the complexities of gender. Riley received classical art training from the Gemini School of Visual Arts where she graduated with distinction in 2008. Over the following five years, she honed her skills as a professional concept artist and illustrator. Today, she documents trans, intersex, and gender nonconforming people through vibrant acrylic paintings and written stories through her series, Gender Portraits. Riley is also the executive director of Gender Unbound, a nonprofit project that advocates for trans and intersex people through the arts and affirming programming like the Gender Unbound Art Fest, an annual transgender and intersex transmedia arts festival in Austin, TX. In 2017, Riley was awarded “Best Artivist (Artist/Activist)” in by the Austin Chronicle and received the Houston Transgender Unity Committee’s “Media Arts & Entertainment Award.” Riley also serves on the board of OUTsider Festival, an annual multidisciplinary LGBTQ+ arts festival in Austin, TX. Riley’s main goal in life is to create in the world what she didn’t have growing up.