June arrives with the unmistakable energy of summer. Longer days, neighborhood gatherings, family traditions, and the opportunity to celebrate the people and businesses that help make the 78209 community such a special place to call home.
In this month’s issue, we’re honored to spotlight a true San Antonio success story. Our Business Profile features The Wash Tub as the beloved local company celebrates its 40th anniversary. What began as a family business has grown into a San Antonio institution, serving generations of customers while remaining firmly rooted in the values that built its reputation. Today, under its third generation of family leadership, The Wash Tub continues to evolve while staying committed to the customer service and community involvement that have defined the company for four decades. Their story is one of resilience, innovation, and the enduring power of family entrepreneurship.
We also invite you to explore our Around 09 feature on Art Gallery Prudencia, a vibrant creative space that is enriching San Antonio’s arts landscape. More than a gallery, Prudencia serves as a gathering place for artists, collectors, and community members who believe in the power of art to inspire conversation and connection. Its thoughtfully curated exhibitions and commitment to showcasing diverse artistic voices make it a cultural gem within our city.
As always, our goal is to bring you the stories that reflect the character, creativity, and spirit of the neighborhoods we serve. Whether you’re discovering a new local favorite, reconnecting with a longtime community landmark, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with this issue, we hope these pages leave you feeling more connected to the people and places that make 78209 unique.
Thank you for reading, supporting local businesses, and being part of our community.
Cheers,
Taylor Lane Editor, 78209 Magazine taylor@78209magazine.com
Photo by Jorge Tamez
PUBLISHER
Las Tres Muchachas
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Taylor Lane
DIRECTOR OF SALES & PARTNERSHIPS
Dale Lane
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Kimberly Pipes, PCM®, CDMP
ADVERTISING SALES
Dale Lane
Layla Saldana
WRITERS
Bruce X. Forey
Taylor Lane
For Advertising/Information (210) 236-5834 info@78209magazine.com
FEATURES
12 Business Profile: The Wash Tub
PUBLISHED BY
A Las Tres Muchachas Production
Cathleen & Dale Lane 7979 Broadway, Suite 109 San Antonio, Texas 78209 (210) 236-5834 | @78209magazine www.78209magazine.com
Follow us on social media @78209magazine & @78209_magazine (on X)
For 40 years, The Wash Tub has been more than a car wash, it has been a San Antonio institution built on family values, trusted service, and community connections. Third-generation owner Giovanni Vizza reflects on the legacy that shaped the company and the vision driving its future.
18 09 Elevated: Abode Interior Design
Tucked into the beautiful neighborhood of Bentley Manor, this Shavano Park home was already rich with character—limestone walls, exposed beams, and a thoughtful floor plan that worked well for everyday living. For our clients, a young family with two busy careers and two young daughters, the goal was to make the home feel lighter, fresher, and more reflective of how they truly live.
28 Around 09: Art Gallery Prudencia
Art Gallery Prudencia has become one of San Antonio’s most inviting destinations for art lovers and collectors alike. Through thoughtfully curated exhibitions, artist talks, and community events, the Monte Vista gallery creates meaningful connections between artists and audiences while celebrating the diverse voices shaping today’s art scene.
SATX Firefighter Turns Family BBQ Sauce Into Central Market Spotlight
A San Antonio firefighter’s family barbecue sauce recipe, perfected over decades in home kitchens and fire stations, is now being spotlighted statewide by Central Market during the grocer’s “From Texas Folks to Texas Forks” campaign, running May 27 through June 9.
Torcatha BBQ Sauce, founded by San Antonio firefighter lieutenant David McCulley, was selected as one of the featured Texas brands for the campaign, which celebrates locally rooted makers, flavors, and products from across the state.
Long before Torcatha landed on grocery store shelves, McCulley was making the sauce from scratch using his father’s 40-year-old family recipe. He often shared it with friends, family, and fellow firefighters, who kept asking the same question: “When are you finally going to bottle this?”
McCulley eventually began selling small batches at farmers markets, cookoffs, and local trade shows while continuing his full-time career as a firefighter.
“I’ll never forget the first time someone came back looking for another bottle,” said McCulley. “That’s when it started feeling like maybe this could become something bigger than we ever expected.”
As interest in the sauce grew, McCulley received a GO TEXAN grant that helped introduce Torcatha to international specialty food buyers at trade shows in Paris. The opportunity opened the door for the sauce to be sold in specialty stores across France, featured in gourmet restaurants, and even served aboard yachts along the French Riviera.
“It’s crazy to think about where this sauce has gone,” said McCulley. “But seeing it featured by a Texas staple like Central
Market feels like an extra special, fullcircle moment.”
Torcatha launched in all Central Market stores earlier this year and is now receiving expanded visibility as part of the “From Texas Folks to Texas Forks” campaign. During the campaign, the brand will be featured through in-store displays, endcaps, side caps, promotional advertising, and sale pricing at Central Market locations in San Antonio, Austin, Houston, and the DFW area. McCulley will also participate in select in-store events and appearances.
Torcatha BBQ Sauce is available in Mild, Original, and Spicy varieties at all Central Market locations, select specialty retailers, and online.
San Antonio’s Oldest Holiday Parade Returns, Presented
by Title Sponsor H-E-B
The holiday season in San Antonio officially begins on Saturday November 21st, 2026 with one of the city’s most cherished traditions: the Alamo Heights Annual Holiday Parade, proudly presented by title sponsor H-E-B. Recognized as the oldest holiday parade in San Antonio, the night parade includes festive floats, a 1 mile race event, a premier after party, and holiday cheer.
This year marks the 48th year for the parade, which has united generations of San Antonians for decades. The 2026 celebration will feature community dance groups, local non-profits, and a special appearance by Santa Claus to close the
evening. Spectators are encouraged to sign up for the 1-mile run/walk prior to the parade to start burning off those holiday calories.
“We’re honored H-E-B has continued their support as title sponsor of this beloved San Antonio tradition,” said Edgar Gonzalez, Midtown Business Association President. “The Holiday Parade brings families and neighbors together, and that’s what the holidays are all about.”
The parade remains free to the public and folks are asked to bring brand new toys to donate to the HEB shopping carts
along the route. The event partners with Elf Louise to collect toys and donations for families in need throughout Bexar County.
The Holiday Parade will step off on Broadway at Alamo Heights High School, traveling along Alamo Heights Blvd toward the pool. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, bring blankets and chairs, and enjoy the parade after party at the Alamo Heights Pool.
For more information, parade maps, and sponsor opportunities, visit holidayparade.org or contact Edgar Gonzalez at 210-289-9478.
Savor the Sounds
Midweek Jazz Nights at Alamo Quarry Market
Wednesday Evenings in June from 6-8 p.m.
Join us for a weekly music series that brings the smooth sounds of live jazz to Alamo Quarry Market restaurants.
Each Wednesday evening, enjoy talented musicians while savoring great food and drinks. Unwind, connect, and experience the rhythm of San Antonio.
June Lineup
June 3 / Onel Jimenez / Seasons 52
June 10 / Chris Guerrero / Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant
June 17 / Michelle Garibay-Carey / Seasons 52
June 24 / GrooveWerx / Piatti
For hours and specials visit QuarryMarket.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Alamo Quarry Market – Highway 281 North at Basse Road.
The Wash Tub at 40: A Family Legacy Still Going Strong
For four decades, The Wash Tub has been a familiar sight across San Antonio. A trusted name synonymous with quality, consistency, and hometown pride. What began as a family business has grown into a local institution with more than 30 locations, serving generations of customers while remaining grounded in the values that built its reputation.
Today, that legacy continues under the leadership of thirdgeneration owner Giovanni Vizza, who is focused on honoring the company’s past while guiding it confidently into the future.
As The Wash Tub celebrates its 40th anniversary, Vizza credits the company’s longevity to a simple but powerful formula: trust, consistency, and people.
“San Antonio is a big city, but it operates like a tight-knit community where relationships matter,” he says. “We’ve always viewed a car wash as more than a transaction. It’s an opportunity to deliver a reliable, premium experience every time.”
That commitment to excellence was established by his father, whose high standards and customer-first philosophy helped transform The Wash Tub from a single business into one of the region’s most recognizable brands. Yet despite its growth, the company has never lost sight of the details that matter most.
For Vizza, some of the most important lessons learned from previous generations are grit, accountability, and maintaining a hands-on approach. Those principles continue to shape his leadership style today. While he respects the foundation laid by his father and still seeks his guidance on major decisions, he also understands that the future of the business depends on investing in its people.
“When you take care of your team, they take care of the customer,” he says.
That philosophy has helped create a company culture that balances professionalism with genuine care. Many employees have spent decades with The Wash Tub, building careers alongside the company itself. The result is a workplace culture that values both operational excellence and long-term opportunity.
Over the past 40 years, The Wash Tub has also adapted to significant changes in technology and customer expectations. As
lifestyles have become increasingly fast-paced, the company has expanded beyond its traditional full-service model, introducing modern express locations and enhancing efficiencies throughout its operations.
Advancements in tunnel equipment and chemistry have allowed the company to provide a deeper, safer clean while reducing service times. Meanwhile, membership programs have created a seamless customer experience that aligns with today’s convenience-driven lifestyles.
Yet through every innovation, one promise has remained unchanged: every customer should leave with a cleaner vehicle and confidence that the job was done right.
Few places have played a larger role in that success than the 78209 community. Vizza speaks with gratitude about the neighborhood’s longstanding support and the generations of families who have made The Wash Tub part of their routines.
“We’ve watched kids grow up in the back seats of their parents’ cars and return years later driving their own vehicles to our tunnels,” he says. “The 78209 area isn’t just a market for us, it’s part of our history.”
Looking ahead, Vizza is energized by the challenge of continuing to grow while preserving the character and values that have defined The Wash Tub for four decades.
His goal is simple: ensure that the company’s newest location feels just as personal and community-focused as its first.
This fall, The Wash Tub will mark its milestone anniversary with a celebration bringing together hundreds of employees, partners, and family members. For Vizza, the event represents far more than a business achievement.
It is a celebration of millions of cars washed, hundreds of careers built, and a family legacy that continues to serve San Antonio one customer at a time.
Forty years after opening its doors, The Wash Tub remains proof that when a business is built on relationships, quality, and community, success isn’t measured merely in years - it’s measured in generations.
3.
09 Elevated 1. 2.
Tucked into the beautiful neighborhood of Bentley Manor, this Shavano Park home was already rich with character—limestone walls, exposed beams, and a thoughtful floor plan that worked well for everyday living. For our clients, a young family with two busy careers and two young daughters, the goal was to make the home feel lighter, fresher, and more reflective of how they truly live.
From the start, the vision was clear: create a home that feels like a peaceful retreat at the end of a full day—one that brings the beauty of the surrounding property indoors while still supporting the rhythm of family life.
5.
In the kitchen, we simplified and refined the space to better suit the family’s lifestyle. The original vent hood, while beautifully detailed, felt too formal, so we replaced it with a custom plaster hood that feels softer and more approachable. Cristallo quartzite 09
Interior Design:
Abode Interior Design
Gina Roth, Principal Designer
Shelly Antonacci, Kory Jonsson
09
Photography by Glass Lake Media Construction Team: JM Design Group
Rather than starting from scratch, we focused on honoring what made the home special. The limestone fireplace and walls, along with the existing beams, became the foundation for the design. We used a warm white on the walls and trim to lighten the space. The result is a palette that feels calm, cohesive, and easy to live with.
09 ELEVATED
One of the most impactful changes was updating the flooring. The original travertine was replaced with warm European white oak, instantly making the home feel more relaxed and current. It also created a softer backdrop for everyday moments—bare feet in the morning, kids playing in the afternoons, and family time in the evenings.
countertops bring in natural movement and light, and by extending the material up the wall, the space feels both elevated and easy to maintain. Custom cabinetry in a mix of warm white and wood tones ties everything back to the beams and flooring, creating a sense of continuity.
Throughout the home, we focused on creating spaces that feel connected and livable. The main living areas were designed to flow seamlessly, with custom built-ins and shelving that balance function with personal expression. There’s space for a large television, but also room for meaningful objects that tell the family’s story.
The home office was completely reimagined to support two professionals—designed specifically around how they work, from focused tasks to practicing presentations. It’s a space that feels both functional and tailored, making busy schedules just a little more manageable.
We also carved out quieter, more intimate moments within the home. A cozy sitting room offers a place to unwind, anchored by a custom piece of art above the fireplace. It’s a favorite spot for the parents to relax while still keeping an eye on the girls as they play nearby.
While much of the home is grounded in soft, neutral tones, the powder bath became an opportunity to do something a bit more playful. A bold abstract floral mural brings energy and personality, paired with a custom marble vanity that makes the space feel special and unexpected.
At its heart, this home is about balance—between beauty and function, calm and energy, refinement and real life. It’s a space designed not just to be admired, but to be lived in fully, every day.
www.myabodedesign.com
Fannie Mae Approves Bitcoin to Buy a Home
By Bruce X. Forey, REALTOR®
For crypto holders who’ve hesitated to buy a home because they didn’t want to liquidate their digital assets, a new mortgage option may change the equation. According to The Wall Street Journal, Fannie Mae will accept crypto-backed mortgages for the first time — a significant step toward bringing digital assets into mainstream homeownership.
How It Works
Mortgage lender Better Home & Finance and crypto exchange Coinbase have launched a product that lets buyers pledge bitcoin or USDC as collateral for a down payment rather than converting to cash. The buyer gets a traditional Fannie-backed mortgage plus a separate crypto-collateralized loan covering the down payment.
- Pledged crypto cannot be traded while it serves as collateral
- If crypto values drop, the mortgage is unaffected as long as payments are current
- Rates range from comparable to standard Fannie Mae rates to 1.5 points higher
Why It Matters
About 14% of American adults owned crypto in 2025, and a Redfin survey found nearly 13% of millennial and Gen Z buyers had already sold crypto for down payments. This product serves buyers who want to preserve their digital asset exposure — whether to avoid capital gains taxes or stay invested in crypto markets.
“As digital assets become more mainstream, financing products that integrate crypto into real-world use cases will continue to gain traction.” — Josip Rupena,
CEO
of Milo
78209 Rebounds Sharply in April — Prices Up, Days on Market Down
After a slower March, the 78209 zip code — home to Alamo Heights and Terrell Hills — posted a notably strong April. Prices jumped, homes sold significantly faster, and sellers captured a higher percentage of their asking price. The numbers confirm what buyers in this market already sense: well-priced homes in 78209 move quickly and hold their value.
April 2026 Market Snapshot
Note: The % of last list price reflects the final negotiated price vs. the most recent list price — not the original asking price. Many sellers reduce their price before a final offer is accepted.
What the Numbers Tell Us
The headline stat: 41 days on market in April versus 106 in March — a 61% drop signaling a strong spring surge in buyer activity. Median sale price climbed from $460,500 to $615,500 and price per square foot rose from $261 to $293. The 98.5% closing-to-list-price ratio confirms sellers had real leverage, with well-priced listings attracting serious buyers.
For sellers: April’s data is a green light. Demand is real, homes are moving quickly at near-asking prices, and the spring window is open.
For buyers: Competition is back. Desirable homes at realistic prices are moving fast — come prepared with financing in order.
Sources: The Wall Street Journal; Gallup 2025; Redfin 2025; San Antonio MLS April 2026.
Bruce is a skilled real estate agent serving 78209 and beyond. He excels at helping clients market and sell their property, find a dream home or discover investment opportunities. He offers advanced training in luxury and historic homes, military relocation and more. bruceXforey.com email: bruce@bruceforey.com.
BRUCE X. FOREY
Alamo Heights High School Names Head Football Coach
Rodolfo “Rudy” Nerio has been appointed the new head football coach at Alamo Heights High School.
He currently serves as run game coordinator, junior varsity football head coach, and assistant track coach at Alamo Heights HS.
“Being named Alamo Heights Head Football Coach is both a humbling honor and a responsibility I don’t take lightly,” says Nerio. “It represents years of growth, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to developing student athletes not just as athletes, but as leaders and individuals of character. Alamo Heights is a truly special place, and it means so much to my family and me to continue being part of a community that values people, relationships, and purpose the way this one does. This opportunity means more than a title- it’s a chance to build a culture rooted in discipline, accountability, and purpose. I’m grateful for the trust that’s been placed in me. I’m driven to serve this program, our players, and the community with integrity, and passion.”
Nerio joined Alamo Heights in 2021 and has also served as offensive line coach for the Mules. Previously he spent six seasons at Brandeis High School as offensive coordinator, head strength and conditioning coach, offensive line coach, and head track coach. His teaching roles include special education teacher and health/physical education teacher.
“I am excited for the future of our Alamo Heights High School football program with Coach Nerio in this role as our
head coach,” says Sean Reno, AHISD Athletic Director. “His passion and energy are contagious, and he is committed to the development of our student athletes. Coach Nerio will continue to build our program and maximize opportunities, both on and off the field. He is committed to continue to build this program as a state power and to develop young men that represent our amazing community in a positive manner.”
Nerio is a graduate of Madison High School, where he wrestled, participated in the field events of shotput and discus, and played football for Coach Ron Rittimann. He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor. He played on the offensive line for four years and later served as a football graduate assistant coach, student assistant coach, and head strength and conditioning coach.
“We are going to get our players to buy into our ‘Heights Way’ of culture,” says Nerio. “It will all be built on a firm foundation and identity of being the hardest working team, toughest team, and competitive in all that we do. We are going to lean on our program pillars of being an elite person, an elite player, and an elite student. Alamo Heights is a special place where our kids come back home to raise their families and we will take pride in the fact that we are building the future leaders of our community.”
Nerio and his wife Lucia have three children- twin daughters Evelyn and Charlotte who attend AHISD and a 6 month old son Rhett who will be a future Mule.
New Principal Named at Woodridge Elementary
Salena Valdes has been appointed principal of Woodridge Elementary.
She has served as assistant principal at Woodridge since 2021. She joined Alamo Heights ISD in 2018 as Instructional Coach at Woodridge. Prior to that, she worked in Somerset ISD as an assistant principal and at North East ISD as an AVID teacher and Coordinator and Reading teacher.
“As principal, I look forward to building on our strong foundations while continuing to support high-quality instruction, meaningful relationships, and opportunities for every student to succeed,” says Valdes. “I am committed to listening, learning, and working alongside each of you to ensure our school continues to grow and succeed.”
Valdes earned her bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees from Trinity University.
In 2025, she was honored as the Texas Elementary Principals and Supervisors Association (TEPSA) Region 20 Assistant Principal of the Year. She currently serves as Treasurer for the TEPSA Region 20 Executive Board.
“We are thrilled to name Salena Valdes as the next principal of Woodridge,” says Dr. Dana Bashara, Superintendent. “She brings a deep commitment to student success, a passion for building strong relationships, and a clear vision for creating a learning environment where every child’s needs are met. I am especially excited for our community to have a leader who has already invested so much of herself in Woodridge and will continue to build on the strong foundation in place.”
Valdes and her husband Rocky Valdes have been married for 10 years and their son and daughter attend Woodridge.
“Having grown within this community, I have had the pleasure to witness the dedication, talent, and heart that make Woodridge a wonderful place,” says Valdes. “I have had the honor to assist and learn from incredible leaders. I know that our students are capable and inspiring, and that it is largely in part to our committed and caring staff and our families who share their utmost support. It is this strong foundation that makes me so excited to step into this new role and continue the important work we have already begun together.”
ALAMO HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH
6501 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-9539
Services: Sunday 11:00am
Wednesday 6:30pm Praise and Prayer
ALAMO HEIGHTS
CHRISTIAN CHURCH
6435 N. New Braunfels Ave.
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-5728
alamoheightscc.org
Services: Sunday: 10:50am
ALAMO HEIGHTS
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
6201 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-0271
San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 733-6201 trinitybaptist.org
Services: Mulberry Service 9am Bible Study 10:15am TriPoint Service 11:30am
UNITY CHURCH
8103 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 unityofsa.org (210) 824-7351
Services: Sunday 11am Children’s Church 11am
If you are unable to make it to a service, check your church website and see if they are livestreaming so that you can worship from home.
Thinking of adding a new four-legged-friend to your family? The Animal Defense League of Texas (ADL) is a non-profit organization that rescues homeless dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, and provides medical treatment, nutrition, and shelter in a safe, live-release facility until they are matched with their forever families!
Outside surveillance cameras recorded two light colored SUV vehicles stop in the street and three subjects wearing gloves, hoodies and masks get out and approach vehicles on both sides of the street; unknown if property was stolen from a Chevrolet truck that was successfully entered; possibly related to the vehicle evading officers.
02/09/26- 200 blk. Wildrose
Emergency Detention
EMS personnel responding to a lift assist requested officers assistance in evaluating a female subject who was unable to care for herself; officers determined the female subject was a danger to herself if left unattended; subject transported to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment.
02/09/26- COAH
Narcotics Violation
A pre-impoundment inventory of a traffic violator’s vehicle discovered methamphetamines and related paraphernalia in the driver’s purse.
02/12/26- 5000 blk. Broadway
Emergency Detention
Family reported a male family member left the house in a manic state threatening suicide; subject was located by police and found in possession of a large quantity of prescription drugs; officers determined the subject was a danger to himself and possibly others; subject transported to a medical facility for further evaluation and treatment.
02/12/26- COAH
Narcotics Violation
Driver found asleep behind the steering wheel of a vehicle with the engine running and foot on the brake; once secured the driver exhibited the signs of intoxication but alcohol abuse was ruled out; further investigation found the driver was in possession of cocaine and THC vaping devices.
02/13/26- 5800 blk. N New Braunfels
6116 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209
(210) 822-2164
Fax (210) 822-7111
Criminal Trespass
Male subject taken into custody when he entered property where he had an active criminal trespass warning issued.
02/14/26 - 4600 blk. Broadway
Wanted
Person
A dispute between a former wedded couple over property was put on pause when it was determined the male subject was found to have multiple arrest warrants issued by Hays County.
02/15/26- 200 blk. Routt
DWI
Driver stopped for speeding was found to be under the influence of alcohol and impaired.
02/15/26- 7200 blk. Broadway
Stolen Vehicle / Recovered
Resident reported their vehicle was stolen during overnight hours and left in its place was a same make/ model vehicle with broken windows and a damaged ignition; the resident’s vehicle was recovered in San Antonio and the abandoned vehicle was reported stolen from San Antonio.
02/03/26- 100 blk. Arcadia
Vehicle Burglary
Unlocked vehicle was unlawfully entered and rummaged through; gift cards stolen.
02/03/26- 300 blk. Evans
Alcohol Violations / Minors
Officers responding to a noise nuisance report discovered multiple under aged minors and open containers of alcohol; further investigation revealed several of the subjects were in possession and/or consumed alcohol; citations issued and minors receiving citations were released to parents.
02/04/26- 100 blk. Katherine Ct
Art Gallery Prudencia: Where Art and Community Meet
Tucked into San Antonio’s historic Monte Vista neighborhood, Art Gallery Prudencia has quietly become one of the city’s most welcoming destinations for collectors, artists, and anyone who simply appreciates the transformative power of art. Founded in 2018 by Prudence Lucas, the gallery offers an experience that feels both sophisticated and approachable, an increasingly rare balance in today’s art world.
Located in a charming space on North Main Avenue, Art Gallery Prudencia showcases an ever-evolving collection of representational works, contemporary pieces, sculpture, photography, and abstract art. The gallery’s roster reflects the depth and diversity of Texas talent while also introducing visitors to artists from beyond the region. From luminous landscapes and expressive plein-air paintings to mixed-media explorations and contemporary abstractions, each exhibition invites viewers to discover something new.
What truly distinguishes Art Gallery Prudencia is its commitment to creating connections between artists and the community. Throughout the year, the gallery hosts a dynamic calendar of exhibitions, opening receptions, artist talks, demonstrations, and special events designed to foster conversation and deepen appreciation for the creative process. Its popular monthly “Wine Down” gatherings offer visitors an informal opportunity to meet artists, learn about their inspirations, and engage directly with the stories behind the work.
The gallery has earned a reputation for thoughtfully curated exhibitions that highlight a wide range of artistic voices and mediums. Recent shows have featured everything from nationally recognized watercolorists and plein-air painters to collage artists, photographers, and sculptors. Rather than focusing on a single style or trend, Art Gallery Prudencia celebrates the richness of artistic expression itself, encouraging visitors to explore new perspectives and discover unexpected favorites.
For many collectors, the gallery offers an inviting entry point into the world of original art. For seasoned enthusiasts, it provides an opportunity to build meaningful relationships with artists and fellow collectors. And for casual visitors, it serves as a reminder that art is not merely something to observe. It is something to experience.
In a city known for its vibrant cultural landscape, Art Gallery Prudencia stands out as a space where creativity, conversation, and community converge. Whether you’re searching for the perfect piece for your home or simply looking to spend an inspiring afternoon surrounded by beautiful work, this Monte Vista gem continues to prove that great art is as much about connection as it is about creation.
“The Purple Cowboy” (What goes around comes around) 14x11 Oil on Panel
Samuel Wilson, 2025
Samuel Wilson is a self-taught realism oil painter based in San Antonio. Originally from Wichita, KS, he began his painting journey in 2008 under the guidance of his father, Kent Wilson, an oil painter himself. Although Sam’s subject matter has varied throughout his career, his primary focus lies in portraiture, figurative, and still life, particularly in the trompe l’oeil style. Trompe l’oeil is described as an illusionary style of painting, translated from French to mean “fool the eye”.
Sam has shown work all across the United States in many national and international exhibitions. He is currently represented by three galleries across the U.S.: Lovetts Gallery (Tulsa, OK), Vickers Collection (Vail, CO), and AnArte Gallery in San Antonio, TX. You can learn more about his process and available works at his website www.samuelkwilson.com and follow him on Instagram at @spot_slim
“Purple Cowboy” (What goes around comes around) follows a familiar trompe l’oeil theme of Sam’s work. Taking child-like craft materials and concepts, along with a very technical style of painting. It is a juxtaposition of content and technique. Sam constructs each craft project just as a child would, as a reference for the painting, which he calls his “mock up” in order to see subtlety in shadows, texture, and color relationships. The purple cowboy himself is a character thought up by Sam years ago for a children’s book concept.
Locally owned. Community rooted. Home to the only Lagree studio
Lagree Onda is a locally owned boutique fitness studio in the heart of King William. Built with intention and rooted in community, Onda brings together thoughtful movement, welcoming energy, and effective full-body strength training in a warm, small-group setting.
