When Holly Glenn first applied to Art in the Square (AITS) in 2023, she knew it was one of the top juried shows in the nation – the kind of festival artists work toward for years. What she didn’t expect was to be accepted on her first try. Three years later, the impressionist, based in Liberty Hill, near Austin, has not only earned the 2025 People’s Choice Award, but her vibrant “Highland Cow 3” has been selected as the official logo artwork for Art in the Square 2026. Known for her colorful, textured wildlife paintings, Holly brings whimsy, warmth and a touch of magic to every canvas. Now she’s bringing it to Southlake’s most beloved art festival.
I COME FROM A LONG LINE OF… creatives. My family owned a gallery in Colorado, and some of my earliest memories are walking through those spaces, completely captivated. I went on to study at UC Berkeley and participated in art shows during college. After my first pop-up market – where I made about $200 – I realized this could actually be more than a hobby. That moment gave me the confidence to pursue art professionally.
MY WORK IS ROOTED IN… impressionism. I create colorful, highly-textured wildlife art using acrylics. My process blends vibrant layers, intricate detail and unexpected pops of metallic and iridescent finishes. Animals are my primary subjects – foxes, highland cows, expressive wildlife – often painted with exaggerated expressions that bring a sense of humor and personality to each piece. I want my paintings to feel joyful, dynamic and full of life.
COLOR AND TEXTURE ARE… everything. Through detailed brushwork and layered application, I build depth and movement across the canvas. I love using bold hues that energize a scene and invite viewers in. The metallic elements add dimension and light, giving each piece a subtle glow that shifts depending on perspective. It’s about capturing not just what an animal looks like, but how it feels.
ART IN THE SQUARE IS TRULY… next-level. The caliber of artists is extraordinary. You’re surrounded by some of the best in the country, and the level of professionalism is unmatched. The Southlake Women’s Club volunteers are some of the most organized and supportive people I’ve ever worked with. And the community – they genuinely value and understand art. People come ready to engage, to ask questions and to celebrate creativity.
WINNING THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD… was incredible. It meant so much because it came directly from the community. To know that festival-goers connected with my work in that way was deeply affirming. It’s one thing to be juried into a show — it’s another to feel embraced by the people attending it.
HAVING MY ARTWORK SELECTED FOR THE 2026 LOGO… is a true honor. The logo artist each year represents the spirit of the festival, so being chosen feels surreal. I’ve become friends with past logo artists and have admired their work for years. To now be part of that legacy — and to see “Highland Cow 3” represent Art in the Square — is incredibly special.
THE ARTIST COMMUNITY AT AITS… is remarkably supportive. There are seasoned veterans who have been doing this for decades, and they’re generous with advice and encouragement. That collaboration and camaraderie make the experience even more meaningful. It doesn’t feel competitive — it feels communal.
WHAT I LOOK FORWARD TO MOST EACH YEAR… is the people. From fellow artists to organizers to families walking through the festival, there’s a shared appreciation for creativity. I love reconnecting with artists I’ve known for years and discovering new work I haven’t seen before. The energy is inspiring.
AT THE HEART OF MY WORK IS… joy. I want people to smile when they see my paintings. Humor and whimsy create connection. When someone pauses, laughs or feels drawn into a piece, that’s the magic. If my artwork can spark a little lightness — and maybe even a deeper appreciation for wildlife and conservation — then I’ve done what I set out to do.