Epic. Legendary. Institutional. The only way to survive summer in Texas. All these phrases describe Austin’s grand assortment of community pools. Yes, there’s the shining star of Barton Springs, but don’t forget to pay proper homage to Springwoods or Big Stacy. Artist Ruth Lauer centers her work around an appreciation for those Austin ecosystem gems. Her paintings glow cerulean and azure and glitter with white-tipped ripples – shades as cool and immersive as a dip beneath the waves. They’re a refreshing promise of the joys of the sweltering season. Summer isn’t nearly as scary with Lauer’s optimistic perspective. – Cat McCarrey
