Alternative Artists Find Kindred Spirits at De Nada

ART IN SAN ANGELO

In West Texas, it can be hard to find the perfect fit for your art. San Angelo may be known as the Visual Arts Capitol of Texas, but not every venue in town is accepting of all mediums, styles, and voices – particularly those that challenge norms.

That’s where Rocio Pena comes in.

Rocio’s love of art is energizing – and her mission is clear.

“I like to get people excited about life and about art, you know? That’s my happiness,” she told me.

Rocio is the co-owner of De Nada, a passion project turned home for alternative artists. She runs the business with her partner, Richard Gammill.

Like many local favorites, De Nada started as a seed – an idea in search of home. Since opening nearly a decade ago, the business has bloomed into an eclectic collective, including work of more than 50 local artists.

Among these is Rocio herself, whose art journey started with lessons on embroidery from her grandma and has now blossomed into a personal challenge to create meaningful pieces from whatever materials she can find.

“Anything that I can use and recycle is what I like to do. I like to take cheap things and give them life.”

Rocio has a passion for providing a safe space in the community where all feel welcome – no matter their form of expression.

“I don’t want you to change your art or the person that you are inside to make people happy.”

This sense of inclusion greets you when you step through the front door. An explosion of color fills the room, and the walls are lined with everything from embroidered patches, to unique jewelry, to iridescent stickers and even children’s books.

Rocio tries to keep this space accessible for artists, even if they’re just starting off. In fact, serving as a launch pad for aspiring artists is something in which she takes pride. She makes it a point to find the potential in young artists and to encourage their creativity.

De Nada also has art shows throughout the year, where artists can feature their themed work. One recent show paid tribute to David Lynch, an absurdist filmmaker, whose imaginative work would fit perfectly on the walls of De Nada. In true Lynchian spirit,  the entire shop was reimagined as a black, white, and red surreal homage to his cinematic universe.

The next art show will be A Very Spooky Horror Show, on October 18th from 6-10 pm. Artists can reserve spots outside for $30 and must bring a carnival-inspired game of some sort. As always, all mediums are welcome and creativity is encouraged.

At the end of the day, De Nada exists as more than a safe haven for artists – it’s a heartbeat in a world that sometimes falls flat. Rocio believes in keeping art alive for the sake of everyone.

“We are at a point in time that I think art is important to survive… Support your makers and shakers.”

The world right now, drenched in uncertainty and tension, is in desperate need of more small corners of abundant joy, courage, and community – all of which can be found at De Nada.

De Nada is located at 3038 W. Beauregard Ave. and they are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday, and closed on Sundays and Mondays.