EVERY PIECE OF ART YOU BUY

GIVES THE ENORMOUS GIFT OF SELF-ESTEEM AND FINANCIAL SUPPORT

DIRECTLY TO THE HOMELESS ARTIST THAT CREATED IT

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AFTS would like to remember and to honor gene golembiewski and bernardo Martinez:

it saddens us to announce that two of the shining stars of art from the streets have passed from this earth in recent months.  we wanted to remember them both here and to honor their legacies, the art they made and the wonderful people they were.

Gene Golembiewski

Gene Golembiewski, a beloved member of the AFTS family, made his transition home on June 29, 2018. Gene was just 52 years old and was just starting to enjoy the fruits of his recent retirement as an accountant in state government. Gene was a humble yet charismatic man, driven by a genuine desire to do good in the world. He was passionate about taking care of the earth and conserving natural resources. He had a quick wit and great sense of humor. He was the first treasurer/accountant for AFTS and over the years, not only did he help with the organizational business needs, he became a sort of "father figure" to the artists in this community. In fact, his heart was always with the artists. Gene left us this earth too soon. His acts of kindness will be remembered for a long time.



Bernardo "Nayo" Martinez

Nayo has been an artist with AFTS for over 7 years, painting and creating his large, bright, and vibrant pieces of art.  He was a quiet and reserved man who came to Open Studio to create. We have found out recently he worked in the circus for many years which gives us partial insight into the amazing faces he painted.  We are sad to find out of his recent passing. We are offering a print collection of his artwork. His son and family will receive the proceeds of your purchase until 2020. AFTS misses Nayo and were thankful to have known him.

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SERVING AUSTIN'S HOMELESS COMMUNITY

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Testimonials

"I met another artist from AFTS. I saw that he was serious about his work. I thought I had some ability and decided to check it out. AFTS means helping out people who are down on their luck, who need incentive to keep creating."

— Artist ~ Clifton Hayes ~

"Enjoy proving my existence. Creation of art is that proof."

— Artist ~ John McPherson ~


"I am an opportunist…I am acquiring wonderful artistic materials to reach an end. I am on my way!"

— Artist ~ Mark Abelli ~

“AFTS is something to look forward to…an expansion of my sanity. I enjoy creating.”

— Artist ~Joseph Brunson~