Exciting news to start the new year: Archway Gallery turns 50 in 2026! They announced this incredible milestone on Facebook, and I’ll share more details below. Meanwhile, they have an artist reception coming up.
Bubble Clock by Robert L. Straight. Laminated Baltic birch plywood, 14 x 12 x 8 inches. Whimsical layered timepiece. (Submitted photo)
Archway Gallery, 2305 Dunlavy, Houston, TX 77006, presents “Just Wood—Mostly,” featuring whimsical, inventive and utilitarian works in wood, mostly, by artist Robert L. Straight and guest artist Tom Wells. The exhibition runs Feb. 7 to March 5, 2026.
The opening reception is Saturday, Feb. 7, 5-8 p.m., with opportunities to meet the artists and attend their talks starting at 6:30 p.m. An added plus: complimentary valet parking and light refreshments will be served.
Jewelry Cabinet by Tom Wells. Zebra wood and cherry. Elegant custom storage with rich grain contrast. (Submitted photo)
Robert L. Straight takes his playful creativity to new heights in this show.
“I’ve let my creative juices flow in all directions,” he said. Highlights include a to-scale midget race car crafted entirely from wood and an array of unique clocks that transform timekeeping into art. “I’ve also turned into a time machine,” Straight quipped, noting the joy of crafting each distinct piece.
Other works feature sculptural body parts designed to hang on walls, along with various other surprises blending humor, craftsmanship and function.
Joining Straight is Houston furniture-maker Tom Wells, known for his refined cabinetry and custom designs. With a background as a chemical engineer, Wells brings precision and artistry to his pieces, creating distinctive furniture that balances utility and aesthetic appeal.
Penland Chair by Robert L. Straight. Solid walnut, 29 x 18 x 18 inches. Sculptural seating with clean lines. (Submitted photo)
Native Houstonian Robert L. Straight has devoted much of his life to art-making. He holds a master of fine arts degree from Houston Christian University (formerly Houston Baptist University) and has participated in numerous workshops at various art schools. Before committing to art full time, he spent a decade in the business world. Straight has been an artist-member at Archway Gallery since 2019.
Tom Wells, after retiring from chemical engineering, converted his garage into a woodworking shop. He began crafting furniture for his home, then expanded to commissions. Since 2007, he has produced more than 150 pieces, starting with friends and growing through referrals. Wells continues to explore new ideas and techniques, merging his engineering mindset with an artistic sensibility.
Wine Cabinet by Tom Wells. Birdseye zebra wood and cherry. Stylish, bold-patterned storage piece. (Submitted photo)
This exhibition celebrates wood’s versatility, from Straight’s exuberant, unexpected creations to Wells’ elegant functional designs. In Houston’s thriving art scene, shows like this highlight how local makers transform everyday materials into objects that delight and serve, inviting viewers to appreciate craftsmanship in a fresh light.
The exhibition arrives as Archway Gallery marks its 50th anniversary in 2026. Founded on April 1, 1976, by a group of 11 artists who sought to control the sale and presentation of their own work. The name Archway was inspired by the arches at their first location at the C.G. Jung Center at 5200 Montrose. The members bought shares in the business and my favorite part, members had to buy a track lighting too!
Archway Gallery strikes a chord with me because I’ve always leaned toward doing things a little differently and independently. Archway has been an inspiration and filled a hole for many artists for 50 years, a true milestone, congratulations! Read more about the gallery’s history on the website under Our Story.Â
Archway Gallery is located at 2305 Dunlavy. Open Tuesday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and Sunday, 1–5 p.m., it features affordable sculpture, pottery, painting, and photography by 30+ artist members. For more, visit ArchwayGallery.com or call (713) 522-2409.
Cohen is an artist and founder of the First Saturday Arts Market. Visit ArtValet.com for more.