If you've read some of our other articles about great cities where you can view art, you may have noticed that we are big fans of Dallas, Texas. Thanks to their well-funded public art program, the city has an abundance of top-tier art installations and institutions. With its art district and the Dallas Museum of Art alone, it is surely a place that will tickle the hearts of art lovers and culture enthusiasts.

A Strong Public Art Program

North Texas City gets praise for its dedicated arts funding, which was established through a city ordinance in 1989. As passed by the city council, the cultural affairs program coordinates with a public art committee and culture advisory commission. Resources devoted to public art include support from the Texas Commission on the Arts. The result is an incredible collection of over 300 works of art, many by local artists, with installations in almost every neighborhood in the city.

These installations, many created by local artists, are scattered across many neighborhoods. They are in libraries, fire stations, parks, recreation centers, and more. With so many great public spaces to explore, it's difficult to narrow the list. But don't worry, we'll pick a handful of our favorites you can check out on your next visit to the big D.

Fair Park

Located in South Dallas, Fair Park is home to one of the biggest state fairs in the country. Aside from corn dogs and carnivals, it is also a hub for public art. The park features many great works of art, including the spectacular Crystal Chandelier designed by William Martin in 1970. Although access to public art is often free, attending a music event at the hall offers the added bonus of viewing the elegant lighting display.

Location: 3809 Grand Avenue / Dallas, TX 75210

https://www.fairparkdallas.com/

Love Field Airport

We've talked a lot about transit art, such as that you will find at DART train stations, but we've yet to discuss public art found at local airports. Dallas Love Field Airport is a city-owned and operated airport and home to many incredible artworks and exhibitions.

While travelers at the Dallas Love Field Airport prepare to soar above the clouds, their eyes are transfixed on the floor when entering the ramp from the mezzanine. The mural on the floor, In Flight (2012), is made from 100% recycled glass featuring four species of Texas birds. Artist Paul Marioni explained, “Texas has an unusual number of native birds and an extreme number of migratory birds. I felt that this was a fundamental theme that all members of society could relate to.”

Location: 8008 Herb Kelleher Way, Dallas, Texas

https://www.dallas-lovefield.com/

Dallas City Hall

Downtown Dallas is home to many incredible public art pieces, including the Floating Sculpture by Marta Pan. Many regard it as a "must-see" on the list of Dallas public art tours.

The two polyester resin pieces, mounted on a steel frame, are displayed in the reflecting pool near City Hall. Due to their innovative design, the spheres swivel and sway along the water. The sculptures were created by Pan to reflect a sense of balance with nature. They were displayed in New York's Central Park before finding a permanent home in Dallas.

Location: 1500 Marilla St. Dallas, Texas

https://dallascityhall.com/Pages/culture.aspx

Nasher Sculpture Center

Nasher Sculpture Center is home to the modern and contemporary sculpture collection of Patsy and Raymond Nasher. The Nashers began collecting art in the 1950s, initially focusing on pre-Columbian art before expanding to modern sculptures. As their collections grew and gained international recognition, Raymond Nasher acquired a lot near the Dallas Museum of Art and hired architect Renzo Piano to design a dedicated space for the collection. Opened in 2003, the center features an indoor gallery and a garden with 25 large-scale sculptures. The outdoor installation offers a peaceful spot for citizens to enjoy art while being surrounded by trees.

Visitors can explore works from notable artists such as Willem de Kooning, Pablo Picasso, Alexander Calder, and Henri Matisse. Admission is free on select days.

Location: 2001 Flora St, Dallas, Texas

https://www.nashersculpturecenter.org/

Katy Trail

Katy Trail is a 3.5-mile-long scenic trail in the middle of Dallas, Texas. Aside from being a perfect training ground for cyclists and hikers, the trail is also a hub for public art installations. The Katy Trail Art commissions, borrows, and creates art projects on and around the trail to inspire creativity, start conversations, and foster community engagement among the residents and tourists.

In collaboration with Nasher Sculpture Center, Katy Trail hosts sculptures along its length, such as Eddie Martinez's Half Stepping Hot Stepper, an enamel and spray-painted bronze figure.

Location: 3102 Maple Ave Ste 230, Dallas, Texas

https://katytraildallas.org/katy-trail-art/

Deep Ellum

Deep Ellum is a historic community on the outskirts of downtown Dallas, Texas. It was established in the 1870s after the T&P Railroad intersected with the Houston and Texas Central Railroad near Elm Street and Central Avenue. The name "Deep Ellum" even evolved from the railroad workers' pronunciation of "Deep Elm." With many African Americans, Jews, Italians, Mexicans, and many more immigrants seeking freedom and a better life, the area became a melting pot of culture.

Deep Ellum first gained attention in the 1920s as a jazz and blues hotspot. Today, the neighborhood continues to celebrate its rich musical and artistic heritage. One highlight is Blues Alley, a set of murals along Clover Street that pays tribute to the history of blues.

Location: Deep Ellum, Dallas, Texas

https://www.deepellumtexas.com/

Final Thoughts

The art in the public sector in Dallas, Texas offers a myriad of opportunities for exploration and inspiration. Whether you are visiting with family, friends, or on your own, you're sure to have a great time discovering the city's diverse installations. From murals to sculptures, each art will lift your spirit and connect you to the vibrant local culture.

You can check out this map to plan your next adventure. Or, if you prefer to view art from the comfort of your home, visit UGallery and see new art posted weekly.