Launched in 1993 by like-minded artists and UTSA grads Leigh Anne Lester and Jayne Lawrence, Cactus Bra Space helped pave the way for many other artist-run spaces in the Blue Star Arts Complex. Quirkily named after a sadistic-looking brassiere Lester fashioned from cactus pads, the gallery championed an experimental ethos during an impressive 19-year-run, hosting exhibitions for many well-known contemporary artists including Chuck Ramirez, Katie Pell, Ethel Shipton, Chris Sauter and Dario Robleto.