The energy was high, the paint was flying, and creativity was on full display at The Lab in downtown Wichita Falls, where the Art Battle brought together 12 talented painters in a fast-paced, live painting competition. And at the end of an inspiring night, Natalia Hernandez-Pagan stood tall as the 2025 Art Battle Champion.
This marked the first-ever Art Battle hosted at The Lab, and the response from the community was nothing short of amazing.
What Is Art Battle?
Art Battle is not your typical painting contest. It’s a live art competition where artists are challenged to create original pieces in just 20 minutes per round. The artists work under pressure, surrounded by a cheering crowd, and spectators vote for their favourites to advance to the next round.
Art Battle has become a global movement, with events held in cities around the world. Now, Wichita Falls is proudly part of that network.
A Champion in Her Element
For Natalia Hernandez-Pagan, this wasn’t her first art battle—it was her third time competing, and this time, she claimed the top spot.
“I’m just in my element,” Natalia shared. “Everyone’s comfortable doing what they love, and that makes it feel very natural.”
Her calm and confident approach helped her shine in each round, creating standout pieces that wowed the crowd and judges alike.
Community and Creativity Come Together
The Lab, co-owned by Rob Comello, was the perfect venue for the event. Located in the heart of downtown Wichita Falls, The Lab brought people together from all sides of the city—and even beyond.
“It’s such a raw and vulnerable moment for these creatives to paint live,” said Comello. “The support from the community really fuels the atmosphere.”
Art lovers came from near and far, including fans like Amber McPherson and her husband, who travelled from Lawton, Oklahoma to be part of the experience.
“This is still our favourite place,” Amber said, “but we’ve seen Art Battles in other cities too. It’s amazing how people from different places come together for this.”
Looking Ahead: A Bigger Future for Art in Wichita Falls
Comello believes events like these play a big role in strengthening the art scene in Wichita Falls.
“Downtown is central—it brings everyone together,” he said. “There may be fewer opportunities in other parts of the city, but here, we can unite as a community in one space.”
As the 2025 Art Battle winner, Natalia Hernandez-Pagan will now go on to compete in national and international competitions, showcasing her talent on a bigger stage and representing Wichita Falls.