Wildlife and nature

Animal shelters and rescues

Theater and dance

Rivers, parks and trails

Hunger and food

Schools and learning

Housing and homelessness

Community health

Mental health

Mentoring and foster care

Legal help and rights

Jobs and money help

Atlanta

The Triangle

Everywhere

The Collective Workshop

Royal Animal Refuge

Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta

Georgia Advancing Communities Together

Atlanta Writers Club

Cobb Collaborative

Bosleys Place

Jewish Fertility Foundation

Durham Arts Council, Inc. is a catalyst in the cultural development of Durham – it leads, inspires, and promotes excellence in and access to the creation, experience, and active support of the arts for all the people of our community.
DAC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization funded by earned revenues, grants and contributions from corporations, foundations, individuals, and support from the City of Durham, Durham County, North Carolina Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
We envision a community where creativity and the arts are highly valued, positive and transformative forces in Durham’s cultural, educational, and economic life. We envision an excellent and sustainable arts and cultural sector that is vital to quality of life in Durham.
Durham Arts Council celebrates the unique creativity and spirit of every person and believes in creating a vibrant, diverse, equitable and inclusive community through the arts. DAC is committed at every level to developing, supporting, and celebrating diversity, equity, access, inclusion, and belonging in our programming, services, audience, workforce, vendor relationships, and governance as a reflection of the diverse communities we serve.
2nd Vice President, Development Committee Executive Director, Helius
Grant Coordinator and Staff Liaison, Durham Park’s Foundation

Durham Art Walk Holiday Market

CenterFest Sculpture Highlights

CenterFest New Artist Highlights

CenterFest Illustrator Highlights

CenterFest Painter Highlights

Volunteer at CenterFest and Art Walk

Volunteer with DAC School and Camps

Give

Full Plan

Executive Summary

"Our House 2026" featuring work from DAC students & instructors

2026 CenterFest Basketry

FREE Training: Arts Business Accelerator

FREE Training: Arts Marketing Accelerator

Seeking Arts Instructors for School Break Camps 2026-27

“Rooted in Joy” a duo exhibit of Charisse Coleman & Kristin Gibson

"The Hours After Helene" A solo exhibit by Christa Capua

CenterFest 2026 Printmaking

CenterFest 2026 Paper

CenterFest 2026 Sculpture

CenterFest 2026 Wood

FY25 Impact Report

FY25 Impact

FY23 Impact

FY22 Impact

Katie Wyatt

Laura Montgomery

McKayla Walker

Janet Bell

Amanda Miller

Colleen Scott

Sean Uyehara

Al Strong

Mïa Vollkommer

Wendy Leigh

Lulu Clark

Ridge Borland

Constanza Gómez-Joines

Geraud Staton

Andy Esser

Bryan Scherich

Mitch Sava

Sheila Crosby

Baron Tymas

Senator Mike Woodard

John Snyder

Dan Ellison

Nate Baker

Jen Stone

A little everyday magic is waiting at Fate & Folklore ✨ This downtown Durham shop brings together handmade finds and gifts with a touch of the unexpected. Stop by during the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market to browse their selection, find something one-of-a-kind, and take home a little magic of your own. Here's a little extra incentive: Spend $50 and receive a free gift! 📍 123 Market Street, Unit B Durham Art Walk Holiday Market November 21 & 22 Saturday 10am-5pm | Sunday 1pm-5pm Plan your Art Walk at the link in our bio.

For 51 years, Durham Arts Council has proudly produced CenterFest, celebrating the arts, supporting local artists, and bringing our community together through one of Durham's most beloved cultural traditions. As we look toward the future, we have made the decision to pause CenterFest in 2027, allowing time for a strategic visioning year focused on the festival's next chapter. This is a pause, not a farewell. We are taking this opportunity to thoughtfully evaluate the festival's future, strengthen community partnerships, explore new possibilities, and consider how CenterFest can continue to evolve alongside the community it serves. We invite community members, artists, and supporters to help shape the future of CenterFest. Stay tuned for updates and an invitation to an upcoming public forum, where we will gather community feedback and ideas for the festival's future. We believe deeply in the power of the arts to bring people together. Events like CenterFest create meaningful opportunities for connection, shared experiences, and community pride, and we recognize the important role these gatherings play in making Durham such a vibrant place. Our commitment to bringing the community together through the arts continues. We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market on November 21–22, 2026, featuring approximately 200 local artists across 12 downtown locations. This free event offers a festive weekend of art, holiday shopping, and community activities, alongside the Downtown Durham Tree Lighting on November 21. We are proud of what we have built together over the past 51 years and hopeful about the next chapter. To the artists who have shared their talents, the partners who have supported our vision, the volunteers who have given their time, and the generations of festivalgoers who have filled our streets with joy: Thank you for making CenterFest such a special part of Durham. Please save the date for CenterFest in September 2028!

The Durham Art Walk Holiday Market is coming November 21–22, and we need volunteers to help bring it all together! From welcoming visitors and supporting artists to helping guests navigate the event, volunteers play an important role in making Art Walk a great experience for everyone. Want to get involved? Sign up to volunteer and spend the weekend celebrating Durham's artists, small businesses, and creative community. Sign up at the link in our bio!

Throwback to our 2024 Ghost Tour where the budget was $0 (…it’s still $0)

Your next favorite local find might be waiting at Cecy's Gallery & Studios 👀 Visit Cecy's during the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market, November 21–22 and make it part of your downtown art walk! Explore a welcoming space filled with local artists, art and crafts for sale, clothing, and unique gifts. It's a chance to discover something special while supporting Durham's creative community. 📍 417 Foster Street Durham Art Walk Holiday Market November 21 & 22 Saturday 10am-5pm | Sunday 1pm-5pm Plan your Art Walk at the link in our bio!

Help make the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market happen! We're making our final call for sponsors ahead of the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market, November 21–22. By sponsoring at Art Walk, you get to: - Connect with over 7,000 Art Walk Shoppers - Be featured on various digital platforms and printed material, including over 10k email subscribers and +1 mil. social media impressions - Support Durham Artists and our creative community Interested in getting involved? DM us or email lmontgomery@durhamarts.org by Friday, October 30, to secure your spot and be a part of something amazing.

RIP my wallet... Explore 50 artists at the Durham Art Walk Holiday Market! At the Durham Arts Council, we're bringing a variety of artists from painting and drawing to sculpture and jewelry. There's something for everybody! Plan your visit now by checking out the featured artist in this year's market. Shop of local art to your loved ones, your frenemies, and don't forget to save something for yourself! We're already keeping our eyes on a few Durham creatives, who are you excited to see at this year's Art Walk?! Durham Art Walk Holiday Market - Downtown Durham - Start at Durham Arts Council and explore a 1-mile radius of other artsy gift shopping and galleries to explore. - November 21 and 22: Saturday 10am to 5pm, and Sunday 1pm-5pm Learn more at the link in our bio.

We had such a great time exploring the Cabarrus Arts Council with Liz and Brian! Some of our DAC team is at the North Carolina Center for Nonprofits Conference, and we had to make a trip to downtown Concord to see their historic building! They have a beautiful space with galleries, theatre, and gift shop. Thank you @cabarrusartscouncil so much for giving us a late night tour, we loved the extra edition to our field trip and learned so much!

This past Friday we celebrated two major exhibitions at the Durham Arts Council! “Our House”, DAC’s largest annual showcase featuring students and instructors gathered to enjoy and reflect on our community’s hard work at the DAC School. In the Truist Gallery, the Durham Art Guild hosted artist talks with caretakers featured in “Holding Space: The Art of Care“, curated by Ash Lorusso and Paget Marion Blythe. Our galleries are free and open to the public Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm and Sundays 1-6pm. We hope you come visit these incredible works.

Emerging Artists Program Grant Applications are OPEN through January 3, 2027 The Emerging Artists Program (EAP) provides financial support to developing or established professionals by funding a project pivotal to the advancement of their careers as artists. Grant Info Sessions are planned for: October 22 November 4 December 1 The Emerging Artists Program is open to artists in Chatham, Durham, Granville, Orange, or Person Counties, and is funded by The Mary Duke Biddle Foundation, the F.M. Kirby Foundation, the Kelley Katzenmeyer Fund, the Anika James Foundation, the DAC Annual Arts Fund, and it is supported by our Partner Counties (Chatham, Orange, and Person). Apply at the link in our bio or visit durhamarts.org/eap

Come to Our House! DAC’s annual student and instructor exhibitions opening on Friday, October 16 with a reception from 6PM to 8PM. This exhibition will be on display until December 3, but don’t wait! Visit our free gallery located in downtown Durham and see what our community has to show you ❤️

Make Third Friday a night at "Our House"! Join us at the Durham Arts Council on October 16 from 6PM to 8PM for an open reception celebrating Our House 2026, an annual exhibition featuring over 150 artworks by DAC students and instructors. This exhibition steps you into the classrooms and studios of our amazing community, we hope to see you there! Artwork featured in order: "Bloom Boom" David Watts, DAC Student "Michaela" Patrick Tibby, DAC Instructor “Savoring Sunshine” Lindsay Parker, DAC Student "Portrait of Hayden Swanson" Samuel Bordley, DAC Instructor "It’s so confusing sometimes" River Takada, DAC Instructor "House of Cards #4, Three of Spades" jo Stroud, DAC Student

Save the date! The Durham Art Walk Holiday Market returns November 21 and 22 🎨😍 Explore two days of local art, one-of-a-kind gifts, live music, and holiday cheer in downtown Durham! The Durham Art Walk Holiday Market brings our community together to shop regional artists, support small businesses, and kick off the holiday season. And we’re looking for community partners to help make it all happen. Become an Art Walk sponsor! Your support helps champion local artists, strengthen Durham’s creative economy, and make this beloved downtown tradition possible. Interested in sponsoring the 2026 Art Walk Holiday Market? We’d love to connect! Email lmontgomery@durhamarts.org to get started. Learn more at the link in our bio and get ready to walk the Art Walk! #DurhamArts #DurhamNC #ArtWalk #ShopLocal #supportlocalartists

Now Hiring at the Durham Arts Council! Help keep Durham Arts Council’s historic home, programs, and events running smoothly. We’re looking for a Director of Facilities to lead the care, maintenance, safety, and day-to-day operations of our facilities. Know someone who would be a great fit? Link in bio to apply.

It’s getting just a little bit chillier lately…guess it’s time to plan for school break camp!! Register now for fall and winter break camps! For ages 5-12, our camps mix visual and performing arts with cultural themes to keep your kiddos movin’ and groovin’! Coming up this November campers will learn about 100 years of Highway History, following with Hip Hop: Art of the Streets starting in late December. Secure your campers spot now at the link in our bio!

The last pumpkin 🥹🎃 Got the creative bug 😷? Take an art workshop at the DAC, we have tons of cozy classes and spooky subjects to make the most out favorite season 🍂 Check out our classes and register at the link in our bio!

Attention DAC instructors and students: Now is your time to shine ✨ The call for art for Our House 2026, DAC’s annual Instructor/Student Gallery Exhibit, is open! Here’s your chance to see your work exhibited in the Durham Arts Council galleries alongside fellow DAC students and instructors. If you’ve taken or taught a DAC class or camp in the past year, you’re invited to submit up to 3 works. Submit at the link in our bio and drop off your work by Wednesday, October 7. Our House will be on view October 16–December 13 in DAC’s Allenton and Semans Galleries.

Looking for something creative to do on a Friday night? Friday Night Makes is Durham’s one-night-only workshop series, happening every Friday night at the Durham Arts Council. This October, we’re getting into the spooky season with autumn-inspired projects, experimental art, DIY Halloween fashion, and some delightfully weird creations. Pick a Friday, bring a friend, and make a night of it. October 2 * Perspective Fundamentals for Urban & Landscape Art w/ Sia Karamalegos, $50 * Coiled Textile Trivets w/ Wendy Leigh, $50 * Long Pose Figure Drawing, $35 October 9 * Ceramic Autumn Leaves w/ Becca Hulett, $52 * Painting with Wool w/ River Takada, $35 * Monotype Magic with Gelli Plates w/ Erin Fei, $40 * Woven-Cover Pamphlet Stitch Bookmaking w/ Wendy Leigh, $50 October 16 * Suminagashi: Paper Marbling w/ River Takada, $35 * Concertina Journals w/ Molly Coleman, $50 * Intro to Intuitive Abstract Expressionism w/ Kai Krensler, $50 * Friday Night Live w/ The Black Drama School, $25 October 23 * Ceramic Autumn Leaves w/ Becca Hulett, $52 * Sashiko 101: Japanese Geometric Embroidery w/ River Takada, $35 * Thanks, I Made It: DIY Halloween Fashion w/ Marion Tisdale IV, $45 * Urban Sketching w/ Richard Kris Meyer, $40 October 30 * Long Pose Figure Drawing, $35 * Weird Halloween Art w/ Sia Karamalegos, $40 * Macrame Wall Hanging w/ Hattie Pink, $50 Register at the link in our bio.

We are so pleased to announce the merit award winners for Centerfest 2026! Best in Show-Richard Wilson (Drawing), Booth A45-46 First Place-Dan Murphy (Sculpture), Booth A06 Second Place-Chris Matias (Clay), Booth B20 Third Place-Johanny De Los Santos (Jewelry), Booth A26 Best Durham Artist-Delores Farmer (Clay), Booth A19-20 Duke Arts Threads of Community Award- Chloe Urbancyzk (Painting), Booth B27 Coca-Cola Citizen’s Choice- Bren West (Mixed Media), Booth A24 Thank you to our esteemed judges for this selection, and thank you to the artists for making Centerfest such a great show! Congratulations to all!

Centerfest Day 1 ✅ Up next, Day 2! The first day of CenterFest was SO MUCH FUN!! Thanks to our staff, volunteers, visual artists, performing artists, all you other artists, and visitors for being amazing!! Who’s ready for Sunday? CenterFest Arts Festival Sunday September 20 11AM to 5PM More info at link in bio.

CenterFest starts today, and we want to "incredi-bull" sponsors for helping bring this signature arts festival to life! Not only are these sponsors supporting CenterFest, they're contributing to our arts community and supporting local artists, organizations, and promoting a vibrant arts ecosystem. Being a supporter of CenterFest is being an advocate for the arts and understanding the value of festivals and events that keep our city creative. We really can't thank you all enough! See you all today and tomorrow for CenterFest! For information and a festival tips, visit https://durhamarts.org/centerfest/

Do you think Al charged the company card for his scooter ride? Check out the behind the scenes of CenterFest prep, and get ready! Durham’s signature arts festival starts TOMORROW, September 19 at 10AM!! See you there! More details at link in bio.

Join DAC Grantee and filmmaker Hillary Esminger for a free screening of her film, As I See It, exploring vision loss and the arts. On Sunday, October 4, come together at the Durham Arts Council for an afternoon of film, food, and conversation. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion offering an opportunity to continue the conversation around vision loss, accessibility, and the arts. Admission is free and open to everyone. A potluck will be available during the gathering beforehand, and bringing a dish is welcome. Donations are encouraged and will directly support accessible programming at the Durham Arts Council. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. Sunday, October 4, 2026 1:30–2:45 PM — Mingle + Potluck 2:45 PM — Theater doors open 3–4 PM — As I See It screening 4–5 PM — Panel discussion Durham Arts Council 120 Morris St, Durham, NC 27701 Bring your family and friends, and share this invitation with anyone who may be interested. All are welcome.

Thank you T-Mobile Fiber, for another year of supporting CenterFest! T-Mobile Fiber is redefining what customers can expect from home internet. T-Mobile Fiber delivers lightning-fast, ultra-reliable internet with straightforward pricing and no hidden fees. With speeds up to 2 gigabits designed to power streaming, gaming, remote work, and connected homes, T-Mobile Fiber provides the performance families and individuals need today and for the future. As part of T-Mobile’s mission to be the best in wireless and beyond, T-Mobile Fiber expands on the Un-carrier’s promise of simplicity, transparency, and customer-first service. From hassle-free installation to responsive support, T-Mobile Fiber ensures customers enjoy a seamless and connected experience Visit T-Mobile Fiber this year at Booth E08-09, right next to the T-Mobile Fiber Gate along Foster St and E. Chapel Hill Street!

Centerfest is THIS Saturday and Sunday!! Are you ready for Durham’s signature fine arts festival?! Check out all the amazing things happening this year, and get your program ahead of time to see the things to do, festival map, and artists featured this year on our website! We’ve been hard at work getting this festival ready for Durham, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you! See you September 19 and 20 for CenterFest Fine Arts Festival, in the heart of Downtown Durham ❤️ More info at the link in our bio.

You better come hungry to CenterFest! We’re serving up a taste of what makes Durham so iconic at CenterFest. Have a brew at the beer garden or try something delicious between artist booths, Sips and Snacks is your chance to enjoy some of the Durham restaurants and food vendors that make our city’s creative community so special. Meet the local vendors joining us for CenterFest 2026: Bull McCabes - Beer Garden Toast Rose's Dumplings Bull City Burger and Brews 21c Museum Hotel Dinkers (Glazed Nuts) Guzzy's EO Athletic Club Coco Crissy's Tropical Icees CenterFest is Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20. Learn more at the link in our bio!

CenterFest is NEXT WEEKEND, and we need you! Join the Durham Arts Council team as a CenterFest volunteer on September 19–20 and help make Durham’s biggest art weekend happen. Volunteers will welcome festivalgoers, supporting artists, collecting donations, and so much more! Every volunteer receives a free CenterFest T-shirt, so why haven't you signed up yet?? Already signed up to be a volunteer? We need a ton of help, so consider picking up another shift! Volunteer Orientation: Wednesday, September 16, 5–6 PM Join us in person at the Durham Arts Council or attend virtually to get ready for the weekend. Find volunteer opportunities at the link in our bio! Remember. Free T-Shirt.

From quiet nature scenes to expressive landscapes, this year’s featured painters bring a range of styles and techniques to CenterFest. Mary Bell of woodmiration combines painting and woodworking, following the natural grain of wood to create layered scenes featuring moss, trees, and birds. Soonja Cook of Lazy River Gallery works in classical representational oil painting, pairing realism with expressive, impressionistic brushwork. Rani Ray & Joe Godfrey create impressionistic watercolor scenes in the studio and plein air, capturing light, mood, and atmosphere. See their work and discover more artists throughout CenterFest in Downtown Durham! September 19–20, 2026 Saturday, 10 AM–6 PM Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM

Love history and art?? Same!! Check out this year’s featured artist and CenterFest design! Illustrated by the notorious L Jámal Walton and screen printed by our friend Robby Poore at Super G Print Lab, we’re excited to announce these limited edition prints will be available at CenterFest! Visit Super G and the CenterFest Merch booth and be one of the lucky collectors to purchase 1 of 51 (for 51 years of CenterFest!) limited edition prints. Your purchase supports the Durham Arts Council’s mission while shining a light on Durham’s history ❤️ This design is available to order now on T-shirts, link in bio! CenterFest Arts Festival is September 19 and 20 in Downtown Durham, NC! Link in bio for more info.

There’s a lot to discover in this year’s Sculpture lineup. These artists turn clay, metal, jewelry, and natural materials into unique works of art! Casey & Sara Anderson of Wild Bohemian Co. Clay & Decor explore glaze chemistry to create one-of-a-kind crystalline effects on their ceramic pieces. Kathleen Grebe of Bold Standard uses laser cutting and graphic design to create bold jewelry centered on empowerment, wit, and statement-making design. Liz Kelley creates wheel-thrown and hand-built stoneware layered with slip, transfers, and vintage ceramic decals. Cesar Sertzen & Sara Borey of Shade Metals sculpt with plants, mushrooms, wax, and resin before casting their designs in silver and gold. See these artists and more at CenterFest in Downtown Durham! September 19–20, 2026 Saturday, 10 AM–6 PM Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM

What are YOU excited about for CenterFest this year?! CenterFest is only 2 weeks away, and although staff is getting a little delirious in the hustle, we CANT WAIT to bring back Durham’s signature arts festival to downtown. Heres a few things you should be excited for: • LIVE screen printing with @super_g_printlab • Chalk Art installation by @cruzwearstudios1 • 120+ juried fine artists • A copy of the Declaration of Independence at the @durhamcountylibrary, in partnership with @dukearts • Free performances all weekend long, including guest artists @rissipalmermusic, @dashawnhickman_steelguitar, @september_ewftributeband Learn more about CenterFest, Sept. 19 and 20, at the link in our bio! ***no we are totally not stealing the Declaration of Independence, nobody here got time for that 💅

Aaand here's the line-up you all have been waiting for!! CenterFest is bringing the energy all weekend long! Join us at the “We The People” Stage at CCB Plaza during CenterFest to celebrate the creativity, culture, and incredible diversity of the Durham community. We'll have local favorites and special guests Rissi Palmer, DaShawn Hickman, and September: A Tribute to Earth, Wind & Fire taking the stage alongside a full weekend of music, dance, theater, and cultural performances. September 19–20, 2026 in downtown Durham Free admission, $5 suggested donation to help support the festival. See the full performance schedule at the link in our bio!

Shout-out to Unscripted Durham for supporting CenterFest! Book now for September 19 and 20, get a discounted rate, and immerse yourself in Durham's signature arts festival! With close proximity, you can relax and watch the festival unfold below, from our rooftop pool deck; or enjoy the laidback nightlife in The Studio. The options are endless, all yours, and unscripted. Book now at the link in our bio! Throwback pics from last year when we had our VIP Sponsor Brunch on their rooftop, such a lovely view of the festival!

Get ready for art filled with imagination, storytelling, and plenty of personality. This year’s Illustrator lineup for CenterFest Arts Festival brings together artists working across watercolor, ink, painting, and more. Cordell Cordaro draws inspiration from myth and fairy tales, creating work that balances elegance and playfulness. Jessica Robin Harkey creates whimsical illustrations with watercolor and ink, alongside greeting cards, stickers, prints, commissions, and original paintings. Laura Morales combines sketching, watercolor, and ink to create richly textured paintings mounted on wood panels. Tara Reed is a global illustrator, designer, and licensing artist based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Bursting with color and energizing patterns, her artwork catches the eyes of many. Come meet these artists and explore their work at CenterFest! September 19–20, 2026 Saturday, 10 AM–6 PM Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM

Take a moment, you earned it 🍃 We often find ourselves exploring the art in our galleries when we need a moment to slow down and enjoy the simple joys of art and human experiences. Come down to the DAC, our galleries are free and open 9am to 9pm Mondays to Saturday, and 1pm-4pm Sundays. Currently on exhibit are two incredible collections by NC women’s artists: • “Rooted in Joy” a duo exhibit by Charisse Coleman and Kristin Gibson in the upstairs Semans Gallery • “The Hours After Helene” a solo exhibit by Christa Capua in the on the main level in the Allenton Gallery

The Net Friends Theatre is LIVE! Tonight we celebrated in style with ribbon cutting, @boomunitbrassband, and friends to celebrate the new Net Friends Theatre! This partnership means a lot to us, and we’re so grateful for the @netfriendsinc team to be a supporter for the arts and help us create many more magical moments in our theatre ❤️

NEW SHIRT ALERT‼️ Our CenterFest T-Shirt Collection just got an upgrade! Check out the new Limited Edition shirts we just got in, illustrated by the one and only @ljamalwalton! T-shirts are only available online, get yours now and wear it to CenterFest on September 19 + 20! Link in bio. CenterFest Fine Arts Festival September 19 from 10am -6pm September 20 from 11am -5pm Visit link in bio or durhamarts.org/centerfest

NEW CENTERFEST ARTIST ALERT! Meet some of the artists joining CenterFest for the first time this year! From surreal mixed media to whimsical fiber work and vibrant, maximalist paintings, these artists bring fresh perspectives and unique techniques to the festival. Leif Johansen creates surreal mixed-media pieces using painting, layering, and hand-cut paper to build depth and dimension. Liz Kruckemeyer transforms wool with miniature pieces and vintage finds, creating whimsical works with their own narratives. Tara Turnbull blends realism and pop-inspired elements to find the playful side of familiar subjects. Chloë Urbancyk creates vibrant, maximalist paintings on canvas, cardboard, and paper. Her festive scenes, inhabited by skeletons, women, and odd creatures, invite both escapism and contemplation. Discover their work and more at CenterFest! Link in bio for deets. September 19–20, 2026 Saturday, 10 AM–6 PM Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM

Celebrate 60 Years of the Eno River Association with us! The Eno River Association is coming to downtown Durham Saturday, September 12 for a full day of music, art, and community as we celebrate 60 years of protecting the Eno River! Join us for a free afternoon at DPlex Plaza (301 W. Morgan) from 1–5PM featuring performances by Paperhand Puppet Intervention, Rowdy Square Dance w/ Five Points Rounders + Simone Fine, Durham Labor Choir, and Duo d’Antan alongside activities with the Scrap Exchange, Luke Vandergriff, NC Herpetological Society, and a live mural painting by Serendib Creative. That evening, head to the Carolina Theatre (309 W. Morgan St.) for a special 60th Anniversary Benefit Concert. Doors open at 6:30PM and the show begins at 7:30PM, with performances by Pura Fé & Cary Morin, Jake Xerxes Fussell, and Tre. Charles, along with sound poetry collaborations by Cortland Gilliam & Brian Howe and Beverly Scarlett & special guests. Explore a Culture & History exhibit and connect with community partners before the music begins. The “Little Big Top” merch tent will be on-site at both events debuting a special collection of tees, art prints, and anniversary-inspired collaborations with local artists and printers. Saturday, September 12, 2026 | Durham, NC Free Plaza Celebration: 1–5PM at DPlex Plaza Benefit Concert: Doors 6:30PM | Show 7:30PM at the Carolina Theatre

In the mood for some crunchy leaves and pumpkin spice? Register for a weekend workshop and get ready for the coziest most creative season of the year! Registration link in bio. Try something new 🍂

Yeah…120 artists is a LOT! We’re so excited and honored to have over 120 juried artists this year for CenterFest. Save the date for September 19 and 20 to experience Durham’s most creative weekend of the year 🎨 CenterFest Fine Arts Festival 📆 September 19 + 20 ⏰ Sat. 10a-6p, Sun. 11a-5p 📍 Downtown Durham As always, CenterFest is free to enjoy with a suggested $5 donation to keep the festival going strong!

We had a little “end-of-camp” ice cream party, but our teachers showed up with tea ☕️ on the goofiest summer camp moments…

We need your help! Volunteer at CenterFest on September 19 + 20 and help make NC's longest running outdoor festival amazing!! Shifts include pre-festival support, assisting artists, greeting visitors, and collecting donations. These positions are crucial to keeping the festival alive, so sign up and share with your friends. PLUS you get a free CenterFest T-Shirt! Sign up now at the link in our bio.

It's never too early to celebrate CenterFest! Introducing the 2026 CenterFest commemorative T-shirt, featuring an original design by Durham artist L. Jámal Walton. Inspired by the historic Durham Arts Council building, this year's artwork celebrates more than a century of Durham's creative spirit and the stories that continue to shape our community. Pre-order your limited-edition shirt now through our Bonfire store. These exclusive pre-order shirts are only available online for a limited time, and every purchase helps support Durham Arts Council's year-round programs, arts education, and the future of CenterFest. Don't miss your chance to wear a piece of Durham history. Pre-order now at the link in our bio!

Up Next in DAC Galleries! Explore two new exhibitions at Durham Arts Council this month, featuring works that reflect resilience, connection, and the beauty of the natural world. "The Hours After Helene" by Christa Capua in our Allenton Gallery was created in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s devastation in Western North Carolina. Inspired by medieval Books of Hours, Capua’s layered paintings blend natural and technological imagery to reflect on climate change and resilience. "ROOTED IN JOY" by Kristin Gibson & Charisse Coleman brings together vivid botanical paintings and eco-printed works, ROOTED IN JOY celebrates two artists’ shared love of nature and creative exploration, located in the Semans Gallery. Through painting and plant-based printing processes, Gibson and Coleman invite viewers to experience the joyful connection found in the natural world. Both exhibitions open August 15, with a Third Friday Artist Reception on August 21 from 6–8 PM. Join us at DAC to meet the artists and explore these beautiful showcases!

This evening we celebrated Margaret DeMott and her 44 years of dedication to the Durham Arts Council! As Margaret retires, we want to take a moment to reminisce on the amazing years of having her with us. Margaret started in 1984 as an intern, and was the one and only Director of Artist Services for many years. She’s also done a lot of cool things, organizing installations for the first ever Public Arts Conference in Durham, worked alongside Ella Fountain Pratt in developing the Emerging Artist Grant, and bringing together local legends Silvia Heyden and Edith London in one of DAC’s most significant exhibitions. It’s been such an honor working alongside an advocate so dedicated to supporting artists. Margaret will be missed, but we know she’ll be around to take a few classes and visit our galleries very soon ❤️

It's time to trade notebooks for sketchbooks! Back to school season isn't just about homework and calculators... Registration for Durham Arts Council School's fall classes and camps opens tomorrow, July 24, at 10 AM sharp! Whether you're ready to get your hands dirty in the ceramics studio, pick up a paintbrush, learn a new dance style, or spark your child's creativity, there's something for every age and experience level. Registration opens online at 10:00 AM through the link in our bio. Popular classes fill quickly, so be ready to grab your spot!

Fall Registration Opens Next Friday! You heard it here first, Sean Uyehara decreed that registration for our Fall Session will open July 24 at 10AM! Don’t miss your chance to learn something creatively new and amazing. Check out our classes and register at the link in bio! Shoutout to Amanda Miller, who served as our DAC School Director for 3 years and did some pretty cool things during her time with us. While she hands off the power to Sean, we can’t wait to see all the cooler things she does as our new Artist Services Director after Margaret DeMott retires from 44 years of service later this month. We got an awesome team y’all 🥹

We’re looking for volunteers to help bring CenterFest 2026 to life! Join us September 19–20, 2026 in downtown Durham for North Carolina’s longest-running outdoor juried arts festival. Volunteers help make this event possible through opportunities like supporting artists, welcoming festival guests, collecting donations, assisting in the Kid Zone, and helping with event setup. Whether you’re a longtime CenterFest fan or joining us for the first time, your time and energy help create a vibrant celebration of art, creativity, and community. Sign up to volunteer and be part of CenterFest at the link in our bio!

Join us for an evening of art, free bites, and over 130 artists! This month is HUGE! We’re featuring “Da Da Da: Trios” by Jennifer Clifton, “Rewoven: What We Leave Behind” by Jen Stone and the Durham Art Guild’s annual Members Showcase, featuring over 130 DAG Artists! Be sure to join us out in the lobby to do a free arts activity along with interactions throughout the DAC Galleries. This is the most action-packed Third Friday of the year! Date: Friday, July 17 Time: 6:00PM - 8:00PM Location: Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris Street, Durham, NC

Threads, memories, and stories come together in Rewoven: What We Leave Behind, a mixed-media textile exhibition by Jen Stone. Using salvaged textiles, natural dyes, and layered surfaces, Stone explores what we inherit, what we mend, and the lasting marks we leave behind. Experience Rewoven in person during our Third Friday Gallery Reception on Friday, July 17, from 6–8 PM. Explore this exhibition alongside our other current gallery shows, meet fellow art lovers, and enjoy a free evening celebrating Durham’s creative community. Free and open to the public.

We are excited to welcome Sean Uyehara as our new Arts Education Director at the Durham Arts Council! Sean Uyehara has devoted his career to the development and support of creative practices. He was previously Director of Programs at Headlands Center for the Arts, an internationally respected arts and residency center located in Marin Headlands National Park. Prior to that he was a film programmer for SFFILM, presenter of the San Francisco International Film Festival. He holds a PhD in Cinema-Television, Critical Studies from the University of Southern California. Sean is excited to join DAC's talented, dedicated team and to contribute to the social and cultural vibrancy of Durham through the championing of community arts. Sean started last week and takes on a new role that blends two previously separate Education departments: the DAC School and CAPS (Creative Arts Programs in Schools + Communities). The Arts Education Director role is a retitling of the School Director position, with the additional responsibility of our CAPS program included in this newly unified department. Sean is currently undergoing training from current DAC School Director, Amanda Miller, as she transitions to her new role as Director of Artist Services ahead of Margaret DeMott's retirement later this month. Please join us in welcoming Sean to the DAC community!

Save the date! CenterFest returns to downtown Durham on September 19–20 for a weekend filled with art, music, creativity, and community. Join us for North Carolina’s longest-running outdoor juried arts festival, featuring talented artists, live performances, interactive experiences, local shopping, and fun for all ages. Admission is free. Stay tuned for artist announcements, the performance lineup, and more!

Hey! We're closed on Saturday, July 4! Watch fireworks if that's your thing, or stay inside, just make sure you're having a great day!!

Join Durham Arts Council and Durham Art Guild for a special early edition of our monthly Third Friday Gallery Reception! In observance of Juneteenth, Durham Arts Council will be closed on Friday, June 19. To continue this longstanding community tradition, we'll gather one day early on Thursday, June 18, for an evening of art, conversation, and community. Save the date and join us for two NEW exhibitions at the DAC: Da Da Da: Trios by Jennifer Clifton Through sculpture, drawing, and installation, Jennifer Clifton explores repetition, pattern, and connection, inviting viewers to consider the relationships formed through groupings of three. Rewoven: What We Leave Behind by Jen Stone This mixed-media textile exhibition examines memory, loss, and resilience through fiber-based works that reflect on the marks we leave behind and the stories that continue to shape us. And don't miss your last chance to see Natural/Unnatural, presented by the Durham Art Guild, this exhibition features works by Emily Clare and Kelsey Merreck Wagner that explore the intersections and tensions between the natural and constructed worlds. Date: Thursday, June 18 Time: 6:00PM - 8:00PM Location: Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris Street, Durham, NC Please note: There will be no Third Friday reception on June 19 due to the Durham Arts Council's Juneteenth closure.

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Durham Arts Council staff