Nestled in the heart of the historic Downtown District of Harlingen, Cactus Valley Art & Supply Company stands as a warm and welcoming space where creativity can flourish. As a small, independently owned art supply store, their mission goes beyond just selling materials; they aim to make art accessible to everyone in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) by providing opportunities, resources, and a supportive community.
At Cactus Valley, art is more than a hobby—it’s a way to bring people together. The store regularly hosts a variety of classes and workshops designed to inspire creativity, spark meaningful conversations, and foster connections among participants. These events are not just about learning new skills; they are about building a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for art. Cactus Valley partners with local artists to host events and curated art shows. These collaborations provide a vital platform for artists to showcase their work and give the community a chance to engage with the vibrant local art scene.
Cactus Valley offers a carefully curated selection of high-quality art materials. They have everything an artist might need from paints and brushes to ceramic tools, paper, canvases, and more. Owner Souther Recio is committed to stocking brands that meet high standards of quality and align with the store’s ethical values. “We put a huge importance in carrying brands that meet our standards both in quality of product as well as brands we are proud to stand behind ethically,” says Souther. Many brands they carry come from small businesses across the USA, including those that are woman-owned, POC-owned, or LGBTQIA+-owned.
Souther, a working artist for the past seven years with over 12 years of experience in customer service, has poured her passion into making Cactus Valley a success. After graduating from PeopleFund’s BIPOC Small Business Accelerator, she received a loan to purchase inventory, a point-of-sale system, and signage—essential tools that have helped Cactus Valley Art & Supply Company continue to grow and thrive.