Choosing a single organization that defines Houston’s super-diverse art scene might very well be impossible…But if we had to narrow it down to two, Fresh Arts and Glasstire would seem like pretty solid choices.

The Fresh Arts Coalition is a collective of small and mid-sized Houston-based arts organizations.  Founded shortly after 9/11 when most art scenes –including Houston’s– were struggling, the non-profit organization was created with the goal of uniting emerging arts groups with small budgets.  By sharing knowledge and resources, the organizations could grow and expand their presences in the community.  Today, Fresh Arts’ roster is a who’s-who of the scene’s most influential art organizations, including Talento Bilingue, Opera in the Heights, Main Street Theater, and Stages Repertory Theatre.

Meanwhile, Glasstire has long been the online source for all things Texas visual art.  Named for Texas native Robert Rauschenberg’s famed tire sculptures, the site has been helping to shape the scene for nearly a decade with its musings on Texas art and the art world at large.  While covering openings, et al. at giants like MFAH and Menil, Glasstire also keeps readers posted about goings-on at off-beat and under-the-radar spots like notsuoH.

Each year, Fresh Arts and Glasstire team up for a gala benefiting Houston art organizations.  Honoring the “-ball” theme of its predecessors (”Snoball,” “Fireball”), this year’s bash is dubbed “Be the Ball,” and will feature an auction of work from Houston’s hottest artists, and enforce a strict “Caddyshack couture” dresscode.  The fete, which was postponed last month due to snow, marks the start of a new year of Houston art– sure to be as fresh as ever thanks to FAC and Glasstire.