Galleries and museums will open their doors on March 23, 2013, for a day of celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Fort Worth arts community. Spring Gallery Night is sponsored by the Fort Worth Art Dealers Association (FWADA), an organization that promotes interest in visual art through educational programs, exhibits, art scholarships and competitions.
Shea Patterson Young, executive director of FWADA says, "It's certainly a festive time."
Among other responsibilities, Young is curator of the Atrium Gallery at UNT Health Science Center. This year, she will oversee the installation of paintings by a group of Texas artists known as "The Rockport 9.
"We're Texas proud," said Young. "It's something people can relate to." Contrastingly, some exhibitions on Gallery Night will push people out of their comfort zones, providing an interesting opportunity to leave with broader horizons. This year, participants are incorporating an interactive element. What do you want to know about art? At each participating location, visitors can answer that question. Common themes will be considered for FWADA's annual panel discussion and summer exhibition.
"Anytime you have an active arts community, it enhances the environment of the entire city," she said. Several restaurants and retailers are participating in Gallery Night, which is free and open to children and adults of all ages. Most venues will be open from noon – 9 p.m. Visit fwtx.com to download a gallery map and list of participating organizations
