For those who love art and also want to meet the budding artists of tomorrow, they should make a point of visiting the Art Institute of Dallas. Built back in 1926, the Institute continues its tradition of teaching art students as well as offering classes in painting to drawing. There are even degrees in stage design.
Since displays of student and alumni work change frequently, tourists might want to schedule a visit to catch the annual showcase of work from graduating students. Of course, there is always plenty of art to see at any time of the year but the showcase is a special event. It is a chance to see work from artists who could become world famous.
There are many graduates of the Art Institute of Dallas who have accomplished quite a bit of fame. Have a few days of extra time while visiting Dallas? Why not enroll in one of the three day workshops offered during the summer?
There are courses in animation, cooking, fashion design, photography and much more. Within a few days, it could be possible to learn how to cook fine cuisine, create a magazine that looks as professional as any found in bookstores or more.
For those who have only a day to stop by the Art Institute, the main Gallery, located on the first floor, is a treat. It is a special exhibition space that highlights artwork done by those affiliated with the school. Professionals, students and graduates are eligible to exhibit there work.
The art shown here inspires both visitors and current students at the Institute. Only work which meets the highest standards of excellence is shown. By opening these exhibits to visitors and the larger community, art becomes more than classes hidden within a college climate and reaches out to a wider audience.
The Gallery charges no admission and is open to the public from Monday through Friday. Hours are 8am to 8 pm, with shortened hours on Friday (closing at 5 Pm) On Saturday, the Gallery is open from 9 am to 1 pm.
Insiders already know about the Institute’s restaurant guide, showcasing Dallas restaurants where culinary students and graduates of the Culinary department work. This special guide lists restaurants who have hired Art Institute graduates. Be sure to ask for information about that and how to find it online or get a list of the restaurants.
Some of the many restaurants included are Suze, The Grill on the Abby and Nana Restaurant. Be sure to ask to be served by a graduate of the Art Institute as well as requesting their special meals, desserts or side dishes. This is a special way to incorporate a visit to the Institute with examples of cuisine produced by new chefs – and to enjoy a fine meal at the same time.
Since the Art Institute of Dallas is primarily a school for aspiring artists, visitors should ask about convenient times to drop by and glimpse students at work. The Institute will do its best to meet such requests, if possible.
Hotel accommodations for those visiting The Art Institute are located conveniently nearby in The Doubletree Hotel, in the Campbell Centre at 8250 North Central Expressway.