The words "art school" and "Dallas" may not strike you as the most obvious combination, but you might be surprised to learn of Dallas' flourishing art scene. While Dallas may be famous more for its barbeque, those Cowboys and their cheerleaders, and that eponymous TV series from the '70s and '80s, it may soon become nationally known for its fast emerging art scene.
Dallas Arts District
Home to the Dallas Museum of Arts, the Nasher Sculpture Center, Booker T. Washington High School for the Visual and Performing Arts, the Morton H. Myerson Symphony Center and many other arts institutions, the Dallas Arts District features 19 city blocks devoted to the arts, making it a mecca for aspiring artists.
The Cedars Neighborhood and Bishops Art District
Studio artists are quickly taking over these two formerly run-down warehouse districts, taking advantage of cheap and plentiful studio space in old buildings. Just as you'd expect, a variety of restaurants, shops and entertainment venues are following artists into these areas, making them lively places to live and work.
Contests and Grants for Texas-based Artists
By attending art school in Dallas, you'll make yourself eligible to compete for all sorts of annual awards for Texas artists, such as the $50,000 Hunting Art Prize or the $30,000 Arthouse Texas Prize for emerging visual artists.
Dallas Art Festivals and Galleries
The Dallas Art Fair, the Dallas City Arts Festival, Cliff Fest, the Deep Ellum Arts Festival and Artfest are just a few of the yearly art festivals held in the Dallas area. These events can be a great place to display and sell your work. Smaller shows are generally open to anyone who can afford the modest rent on booth space. What's more, the Dallas area boasts over 3,000 art galleries, many of which are actively looking for work by new artists.
