At the heart of Houston’s thriving creative scene is Diane Gelman, a mixed media artist whose vibrant work celebrates the beauty, texture, and emotion of food. Based at The Silos at Sawyer Yards—a hub for over 100 working artists—Gelman is currently showcasing her solo exhibit EAT, a playful and deeply layered exploration of food in art, on view through May 24.
Gelman’s journey as an artist began unexpectedly over 35 years ago when she painted an eggplant on her kitchen wall out of boredom with its stark white decor. What started as a spontaneous act of color quickly bloomed into a lifelong passion. Encouraged by curiosity and creative drive, she enrolled at Galveston Community College art classes, eventually earning a Certificate in Painting from The Glassell Studio School of Art in Houston.
Though Gelman once doubted her artistic abilities, she remained devoted to her vision—layering paint, paper, fabric, and found materials into striking collages that blur the line between realism and imagination. As both an artist and a licensed dietitian, her works uniquely explore the intersection of food, culture, and personal expression.
In addition to being featured in Miami and receiving awards throughout her career, Gelman recently earned a prestigious grant from the City of Houston to support her EAT exhibition—an opportunity she embraced wholeheartedly.
“I wanted to do right by my city,” she said.
Now celebrating 50 years of marriage and a career that only continues to flourish, Diane Gelman proves that persistence, passion, and a love for food can create art that’s not only beautiful—but truly nourishing.
Diane has also invited the public to her Champagne Reception on Saturday, May 10th from 6pm-8pm in The Silos at Sawyer Yards, Gallery 200.