The Rio Grande International Study Center has announced the three judges for the 2026 Birds of the Brush art exhibition, part of the Laredo Birding Festival. The judges are Kassandra Romero, an artist and educator; Anakaren Escamilla, a Laredo-based artist focused on healing and feminine strength; and Raul Delgado, an avid bird photographer and member of the Monte Mucho Audubon Society. The free public event will take place February 5 at the Laredo Center for the Arts, featuring aviary-themed works from artists of all ages and skill levels.
This exhibition matters because it connects the local art community with birding and environmental conservation, celebrating the natural beauty of the Rio Grande region. By bringing together artists, birders, and the public in a free, accessible setting, the event fosters community engagement and highlights the role of visual art in promoting ecological awareness. It also spotlights emerging and established local artists, reinforcing Laredo's cultural scene.