Dallas is buzzing with cultural activity this February, and the Office of Arts and Culture is leading the charge. The Dallas OAC has announced various events and opportunities to celebrate the local arts scene and bring the community closer together.
The city will see the inaugural “214 Day: Show Love for Dallas,” an event dedicated to the city’s vibrant culture and artistic spirit, according to the City of Dallas. With the festivities scheduled for February 14, the day’s highlight is pegged to be the unveiling of a community quilt, representing the unity and diverse expressions of Dallas’ inclusive community. Held at the Dallas City Hall Main Lobby from noon to 1 p.m., attendees can expect light bites, live entertainment, and interactive activities.
To nurture the artistic ecosystem further, the OAC is also inviting applications for its 2025 Non-Profit Summer Residency Program. Targeting districts lacking OAC cultural centers, the eight-week residency will extend space and support to arts organizations that deliver community-based arts programming. Applications remain open until February 17, an opportunity for organizations to deepen their community impact.
Fresh opportunities bloom for local artists, too, as the City of Dallas announced that the Old East Dallas Work Yard Park is seeking public art proposals. The Park’s budget of $95,000 covers design, fabrication, and installation, and the artwork is intended to celebrate the neighborhood’s cultural heritage. The proposal deadline is March 7, illustrating the city’s commitment to fostering pride and engagement through the arts.
On the financial front, the Moody Fund for the Arts has swung open the gates for its 2025 grants cycle. By providing vital funding to small and mid-sized arts organizations, the MFA enables the flourishing of diverse creative projects across Dallas. Last year, MFA granted $450,000 to 59 organizations, significantly boosting those looking to bring innovative and impactful artistic experiences to the community. The application deadline is noon on February 18, and organizations across Dallas are urged to seize this opportunity for support.