I recently had the privilege of attending the grand opening of the 4-FOLD: Perspectives exhibition featuring four sensational artists of many talents: Alicia Chapman, Joaquin Soto, Mark Hernandez, and Alison Ledbetter. It was both refreshing and enriching to engage with such gifted artists and gain deeper insights into their creative processes.
One of the most memorable moments of the evening was getting to talk to Alicia Chapman. She revealed her work Morning Joy, depicting the woman with purple hair, was inspired by a reference photo of her mother and the foundational lessons she taught Alicia about nature, gardening, and faith. Her other work Petals & Scars was inspired by a close relative who experienced a broken relationship; the scattered petals represent broken trust and the arrows that once brought love now cause pain. I also spoke with Joaquin Soto who shared his work consists of found objects as well as treasures gifted to him by people who know he will put them to good use. The other unplanned surprise was Mark Hernandez sat down to play piano and sing. His joyful voice filled the room as I was reading about his “deeply rooted personal journey and profound transformation” that influences every aspect of his life and art. And learning about Alison Ledbetter’s “exploration of internal landscapes and endeavor to create a visual language that reflects the complexity and depth of the human psyche” was stirring.
Throughout the exhibition, each artwork presented a compelling narrative that was truly captivating. I was particularly impressed by the strategic and significant use of metals, finds, hearts, blooms, torn pages, words, symbols, and psyche to create profound works of art.
The words that best describe the exhibition for me are originality, reflection, resourcefulness, and faith. I found myself walking through the gallery multiple times, and with every pass, I discovered something new and inspiring within the pieces.
Here’s a glimpse!
Alicia Chapman
Joaquin Soto
Mark Hernandez
Alison Ledbetter
4-FOLD: Perspectives runs March 12 through April 10, 2026, curated by the artists and Create Texas at Wellspring on Main — 201 W Main St, Arlington TX 76010. Opening Reception March 13, 5-8 PM. Closing Reception April 2, 5-8 PM. Some works in this collection feature artistic representations of the human form, including figures not covered with clothing. For more information about the exhibition and Create Texas, visit createarlington.com
Learn more about the artists
Photos by Hope N. Jones
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