Carlyn Ray Designs

Meet artist Carlyn Ray at Raven Gallery today in Aspen during ArtWeek. Come hear about the inspiration behind her weavings displayed in the gallery, as well as stories from her glass journey.

Art has the ability to spark conversation, inspire imagination and create connection. Thank you to Christopher Collins and for highlighting Gathered Radiance and the role public art can play in bringing a community together.

“I feel the energy really culminating in Abilene,” Ray says, “this blossoming effect, like it’s just starting to open up.” Her Gathered Radiance, along with works displayed at Ray’s solo exhibition inside the Grace Museum a few blocks from the library, casts a glimmer across the city’s centerline, a beacon of imagination and creative exploration in a divisive world. “Colors and light, there’s something about that that naturally ties books and art and learning together. It opens minds to possibilities.” – Christopher Collins

Carlyn Ray Designs was honored to support Ronald McDonald House Dallas during this year’s Rock The House and Heart of Gold celebrations, marking 45 years of serving families with seriously ill children.
 
Carlyn’s connection to RMHD began through Migration, a community-created installation that featured butterflies decorated by families staying at the House, each representing a story of hope, resilience and love. The experience offered a firsthand look at the impact RMHD has on children and families during some of life’s most challenging moments.
 
This year’s celebration was especially meaningful as Carlyn Ray Designs created the Heart of Gold Award honoring Nancy Nasher and David Haemisegger for their extraordinary support of RMHD and lasting impact on the Dallas community. The moment came full circle for Carlyn, who was honored with the Obelisk Award by Nancy and the Business Council For The Arts in 2019.
 
Congratulations to Nancy and David, and thank you to everyone who helps make Dallas a community rooted in compassion and care.

From Gathered Radiance at Abilene Heritage Square to her exhibition at The Grace Museum, Carlyn Ray’s time in Abilene has been shaped by so much more than the artwork itself.

Throughout this experience, Carlyn has had the opportunity to meet community leaders, artists, museum partners and local supporters who care deeply about the future of Abilene and the people within it. One of the things that has impacted her most has been meeting individuals who truly lead with their heart: people creating meaningful change through connection, collaboration and support for the arts.

A special thank you to the , especially Dr. Jodi Hierholzer, John Nichols, Katie Alford, Doug Peters, Will Dugger and Gerardo Duarte, for the warm welcome and thoughtful conversation during last week’s board meeting. Carlyn also wanted to extend an extra special thank you to John Nichols and all those connected to Dyess Air Force Base for their dedication, service and continued impact on both the Abilene community and our country.

Thank you as well to everyone who has been part of Carlyn’s Abilene experience along the way, including Jane Beard, Jay & Laura Moore, Judy Deaton, Mayor Hurt and so many others who have made this time so meaningful. 🤍

And thank you to for involving us in the Abilene Heritage Square project to bring Gathered Radiance to life!

Carlyn Ray Designs was honored to partner with the 2026 Las Colinas Home Tour, creating custom hand-blown glass pieces for the homeowners featured throughout this year’s event. 

More than just a showcase of beautiful homes and design, the tour continues to grow into a meaningful community tradition, raising funds for several Irving-based organizations including Irving Cares, Irving Schools Foundation, Many Helping Hands and Church of the Incarnation while highlighting the unique lifestyle and character of Las Colinas.

Thank you to the entire Home Tour Host Committee for including us in such a special event and for supporting local charities through this incredible initiative. ✨