About
US

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The Galveston Historic Downtown Cultural Arts District designation was officially established in September 2012, thanks to the efforts of the City of Galveston Cultural Arts Commission, particularly with the recommendation of commission chairman Martha Terrell and past commission chairman Maureen M. Patton Executive director of The Grand 1894 Opera House. Kathy VanDewalli, a fellow commission member, also played an integral role in bringing this district to life.

 

In 2016, the Galveston Historic Downtown Cultural Arts District (ARTS Downtown GTX ) 501(c)3 non-profit organization was formed, largely under the leadership of Maureen Patton. The Grand 1894 Opera House was the key stakeholder in the creation of Galveston Historic Downtown Cultural Arts District and helped to establish the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that governs it ARTS Downtown GTX.

 

ARTS Downtown GTX, currently supports arts organizations within its footprint that meet the criteria of the Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) Cultural Districts program. These organizations must be VERIFIED College Arts Institutions, Established Arts Organizations, Established Arts Organizations of Color, Government Local Arts Agencies, Local Arts Agencies, or Rural Arts Providers. They must also have a budget of $50,000 for three consecutive years. Eligible organizations can seek funding for projects that use the arts to diversify local economies, generate revenue, and attract visitors and investment.

 

In 2023, the City of Galveston collaborated with the Park Board of Trustees and a steering committee led by The Galveston Art Center and The Lakota Group to develop and adopt a City Cultural Arts Master Plan. For ARTS Downtown GTX, this endeavor marked an opportunity to strengthen the organization's foundations and become an integral part of the growing artistic movement in Galveston.

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Led by Sarah Piel, President of the ARTS Downtown GTX board, the board has grown to include twelve exceptional and diverse members from the artistic community. These individuals bring a wealth of expertise across various disciplines, from performance and visual art to culinary arts, music, and arts education. The board is further strengthened by representatives from non-profit stakeholders whose events take place within the district. As a united force, we aim to amplify the voices of artists and arts organizations, fostering economic opportunities and creating a vibrant cultural hub that attracts both visitors and residents. This hub will celebrate Galveston's unique cultural heritage, making it a destination for all.

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