Welcome

Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) advances our state economically and culturally by investing in a creative Texas.

 Our work strengthens and grows the creative industries in our state, attracts cultural tourists, and generates economic activity.  The arts and culture industry generates $7 billion annually for the Texas economy.

TCA Designates Cultural Districts

Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) officially designates cultural districts on behalf of the State of Texas.

Cultural districts are special zones that harness the power of cultural resources to stimulate economic development and community vitality. These districts can become focal points for generating businesses, attracting tourists, stimulating cultural development and fostering civic pride.

TCA Rural Initiatives

Texas has the nation’s largest rural population, with more than 4 million rural residents. Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) has programs to serve these communities and celebrate these hidden gems.

Young Masters

Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) helps to cultivate and elevate the next generation Texas artists through the Young Masters program. Talented high school students compete for the coveted title of Young Masters. Two-year awards help these outstanding young artists hone their artistic skills.

Texas Touring Roster

Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) maintains a list of outstanding Texas-based touring companies and artists.

 Artists compete to be included on this prestigious list. TCA grants help to ensure every Texas community has access to high quality arts programming at an affordable price.

TCA Speaker Series

Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) offers free professional development opportunities. Pick up new ideas for fundraising, marketing, and more with our online speaker series.

Public Art in Texas

Murals, outdoor sculptures, and other public artwork can be a great way to create a unique and memorable identity for a community. Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) is happy to advise on public art projects and percent for art programs.

TCA News

Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) offers a free monthly email newsletter. Get the latest scoop from TCA delivered to your inbox including reminders about upcoming deadlines and opportunities.

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Grant Guidelines

TCA Grant Guidelines

Calendar Deadlines

Calendar of grant deadlines

Grant Portal

Sign in to TCA grant portal

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Our News

Texas State Artist

Nominate the next Texas Poet Laureates, Texas State Musicians, and Texas State Artists (visual arts) by October 15! TCA organizes this biennial designation process, which is the highest honor the State gives to artists.

Information and the online nomination form are here.

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New Grants Approved

On September 3, TCA Commissioners approved funding of 1,143 grants in the first funding round for fiscal year 2027. The grants total over $17 million and will go to nonprofits and units of government in 131 Texas cities. The full list of fiscal year 2027 grants is here.

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 New Cultural Districts Approved

On September 3, TCA Commissioners also approved the designation of four new cultural districts: the Edinburg Arts District, Galveston African American Cultural Heritage District, Lufkin Cultural District, and Mitte Cultural District in Brownsville. Congratulations!

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September Commission Meeting

Per State law (Government Code, Chapter 551), the agenda is posted for public review with the Texas Register

Search for “Texas Commission on the Arts” to view the current agendas posted online.  The meeting materials are located here.

Art Jobs

Penfold Theatre Company is seeking enthusiastic and experienced professional Teaching Artists (Independent Contractors) for the upcoming Penfold Academy fall session. Classes run for 12 weeks, starting the week of August 31 and concluding the week of November 16. Each class meets once a week for 55 minutes during the late afternoon and early evening (classes begin at 4:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 6:00 PM) Monday through Thursday. Penfold Theatre Company is located at 2120 N. Mays Street, Suite 290, Round Rock, TX.
We are looking for instructors who can teach students ranging from PreK to 12th grade in at least one of the following specialty areas:

*Musical Theatre (Acting/Voice/Dance): For classes such as Musical Theater Beginnings (Grades PreK – 1), Broadway Stars (Grades 1 – 3), and Triple Threat Technique (Grades 4 – 8).
*Acting for the Camera: For our elementary (Grades 2 – 6) and teen (Grades 7 – 12) on-camera acting classes.
*Improv: For high-energy classes like Intro to Improv (Grades 4 – 6) and Teen Improv (Grades 7 – 12).
*Acting: For foundational classes like Center Stage Kids (Grades 2 – 4), Comedy Kids (Grades 1 – 3), and The Actor’s Process (Grades 5 – 8).
*Voice: For technique-focused classes like Sing the Movies (Grades 1 – 3) and Broadway Vocals (Grades 4 – 8).

We encourage applicants to visit the Penfold Academy page of our website to learn more about each course and the dates and times each course will be offered.

COMPENSATION
$40-50/hour

RESPONSIBILITIES
*Deliver engaging, skills-based instruction tailored to the specific age group and subject.
*Foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for young performers of all experience levels.
*Lead students toward a final skills demonstration during the last week of class (these are skills-based demonstrations, not full productions).
*Communicate classroom needs and coordinate effectively with Penfold Theatre Company staff.

REQUIREMENTS
*Bachelor’s Degree/equivalent or higher in a performing arts discipline or in performing arts education.
*Proven experience teaching or directing youth theatre and/or performing arts.
*Strong professional background in at least one of the requested disciplines.
*Reliable transportation to our Round Rock location.
*Ability to pass a criminal history background check.

Deadline: 08/22/26
Location: Round Rock, TX
Website: https://www.penfoldtheatre.org/job-opportunities/

Job Features1

Job CategoryJobs
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

Penfold Theatre Company is seeking enthusiastic and experienced professional Teaching Artists (Independent Contractors) for the upcoming Penfold Academy fall session. Classes run for 12 weeks, startin...

The Dallas Opera is a world-class performing arts organization producing outstanding mainstage and chamber opera repertoire, attracting national and international notice, committed to extensive community outreach and education, and managed to the highest standards of artistic excellence, accountability, and financial sustainability.

The Advertising and Sales Manager is responsible for managing media placement, budget, content, and production for all print, digital, broadcast, and out-of-home advertising to support the ticket sales goals of The Dallas Opera. This is a full-time annual position and reports to the Director of Marketing and Communications.

Key Responsibilities:

Advertising:
Manage media placement in-house and through external agency, including budget, content, and production, for all print, digital, broadcast (radio/TV), and out-of-home advertising campaigns to support the revenue and attendance goals for in-person and digital performances
Build and nurture relationships with media vendors for stronger campaign reach
With support from Director, secure media partnership agreements and oversee fulfillment
Create promotional opportunities through media partners that support audience development goals and increase ticket sales
Write compelling copy for print, radio, and digital ads based on source content
Work with Graphic Designer (and/or freelance designers) to produce design assets in support of marketing plans, including all print, digital, and video assets, as well as manage timeline for deliverables
Submit all creative assets to media and print vendors on a timely basis
Review and report on vendor analytics for advertising ROI
Ensure Asana production schedules are built for all print and digital media to ensure on-time delivery of assets
Collaborate with Digital Content Manager for content creation and timelines for paid and organic campaigns

Direct Sales:
In conjunction with the Director of Marketing and Communications, develop and oversee implementation of all single ticket direct mail
Project manage Graphic Designer (provide content and direction, route proofs, and edit) printing (select paper, optimize dimensions for press efficiency, and non-profit mail rates), and mail house services (provide specs, final artwork, and mailing lists in a timely manner, and ensure adequate postage balance in USPS account)

Qualifications:
Traits and Characteristics:
Aptitude for multitasking, prioritizing, attention to detail, and managing time in a fast-paced environment which often presents competing priorities
Strong interpersonal skills, ability to provide creative direction and negotiate media rates and consultant fees for service
Self-motivated with a commitment to achieving sales goals
Strong project management and organizational skills; accepts responsibility for quality, accuracy, and timeliness of assignments
Team player with customer service mindset, creative and collaborative spirit, and proven ability to build productive working relationships internally and externally
Skills and Knowledge
Bachelor’s degree in a related field (Marketing, Sales, Communications, Business Administration) and five or more years’ experience in high-volume advertising environment, including print, broadcast, direct mail, digital, and out-of-home media planning in the arts and entertainment industry
Proven expertise in creating and implementing integrated multi-channel advertising plans with an emphasis on digital/social marketing
Strong understanding of graphic design, print production, and direct mail
Effective communication skills, including superb copywriting and editing skills
Budget management experience
Deep understanding of the Dallas media landscape
Familiarity with web-based project management systems (Asana, Basecamp, Trello)
Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop and Canva; experience adapting and resizing graphics for use in multiple formats
Proficiency in Microsoft products (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and collaborating in a Microsoft Teams environment; adept at learning new programs and technology

Compensation - $60,000-65,000 annually, depending on experience
Benefits - Comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and long-term success of our employees including medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid parental leave, dedicated PTO and sick leave, 403b retirement savings plan with employer matching, complimentary tickets to performances, and personalized professional development opportunities

Deadline: 09/01/26
Location: Dallas, TX
Website: https://dallasopera.org/about/careers/

Job Features1

Job CategoryJobs
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

The Dallas Opera is a world-class performing arts organization producing outstanding mainstage and chamber opera repertoire, attracting national and international notice, committed to extensive commun...

The Dallas Opera is a world-class performing arts organization producing outstanding mainstage and chamber opera repertoire, attracting national and international notice, committed to extensive community outreach and education, and managed to the highest standards of artistic excellence, accountability, and financial sustainability.

This position is full-time, annual, exempt and reports to the Operations Production Administrator and works closely with the Technical Director, Assistant Technical Director, and IASTE Crew, Production department, and Artistic department.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Specific duties include managing of lighting-related functions within the Production department, including but not limited to:
Serve as the primary liaison between the Company and all guest Lighting Designers throughout the design, production, rehearsal, and performance process
Collaborate with the Winspear Opera House Head of Lighting regarding front-of-house repertory lighting, venue systems, and equipment modifications or requests
Partner with the Technical Director to provide technical information, venue documentation, and production resources that enable designers to develop lighting designs that support the artistic vision while remaining within budget, schedule, and venue capabilities
Lead the successful implementation of each lighting design while balancing artistic objectives with operational priorities, including safety, scheduling, budget, and Company policies
Attend production meetings, design presentations, technical rehearsals, focus sessions, cueing sessions, staging rehearsals, dress rehearsals, performances, and other meetings as assigned
Foster collaborative working relationships with artistic, production, technical, and administrative personnel to ensure the successful realization of each production
Provide artistic and technical leadership for the lighting for concerts, community engagement programs, special events, and The Dallas Opera Education productions, either by serving as Lighting Designer or by supervising the work of assigned designers, ensuring consistency with The Dallas Opera's artistic standards and production practices

Departmental Leadership & Administration
Provide leadership and direction to the Lighting Department, including the Assistant Lighting Director, Head Electrician, IASTE Crew, and overhire personnel
Oversee departmental planning, scheduling, and workflow to ensure efficient implementation of all production activities
Assist in monitoring departmental and production-specific expenditures, including purchase requests, purchase orders, rental expenses, and expense reporting, in coordination with the Assistant Lighting Director
Forecast departmental needs and ensure the timely procurement of lighting equipment, expendables, electrical supplies, and related materials

Technical Planning & Documentation
Oversee the preparation and maintenance of all lighting documentation, including but not limited to light plots, channel hookups, instrument schedules, focus charts, cue sheets, followspot paperwork, deck sheets, inventory records, and archival documentation
Direct the preparation of production paperwork in collaboration with the Head Electrician, including shop orders, hang documentation, color counts, inventory tracking, and installation paperwork
Ensure all production documentation is complete, accurate, and archived to support efficient remounts and future revivals
Guide the Assistant Lighting Director in organizing, coordinating, calling, and maintaining followspot operations, including communicating designer intent, preparing cue documentation, distributing revisions, and supporting operator training

Equipment & Venue Stewardship
Oversee the coordination, tracking, and return of all rented lighting equipment in collaboration with the Head Electrician, ensuring accurate inventory and timely returns
Coordinate with venue personnel and the Head Electrician to ensure the theatre's lighting systems and facilities are restored to their required operational condition following each production
Support the ongoing maintenance, organization, and long-term stewardship of departmental equipment, inventory, and infrastructure

Other Responsibilities
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Production Department and organizational objectives.

Traits and Characteristics
Strong focus, organizational and communication skills; capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously
Team player with a positive attitude
Maintain a calm, relaxed, and professional demeanor at all times
Work well under pressure while maintaining accuracy and efficiency
Keen sense of awareness
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive data
Interest in current and new developments in theatrical technology and standards
Appreciation of opera and classical music
Ability to read music a plus

Skills, Knowledge, and Certification
MFA in Lighting Design and 5 Years of professional experiences as a Lighting Supervisor or Director
Training and understanding of safe practices in live performance settings
Ability to work within a rigorous time schedule with a large variety of personalities
Experience with running Union crews in a live performance setting
Basic understanding of union rules and regulations as it pertains to technicians, singers, dancers, and musicians
Proficient in Vectorworks CAD Software (2026+), Lightwright (v26.2) (lighting design spreadsheet/database software), Excel, and Word
Intermediate to advanced knowledge of ETC Family Consoles (ION/EOS), ETC dimmers, and ETCNet 3 protocols
Intermediate knowledge of electrical theory and practice
Ability to sit or stand in low-light conditions for long periods of time on a wide variety of surfaces

Salary - $60,000 - $65,000
Benefits - Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, PTO, paid parental leave, sick leave, 403b savings plan with employer matching, complimentary tickets to performances, and professional development opportunities.

See yourself at the opera! We appreciate the many experiences and perspectives people bring to our work, and we encourage you to apply to be a part of The Dallas Opera. To apply, please send a cover letter and résumé to recruitment@dallasopera.org, using the subject line “Lighting Director – Name”. No phone calls, please.

Deadline: 09/01/26
Location: Dallas, TX
Website: https://dallasopera.org/about/careers/

Job Features1

Job CategoryJobs
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

The Dallas Opera is a world-class performing arts organization producing outstanding mainstage and chamber opera repertoire, attracting national and international notice, committed to extensive commun...

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Art Opportunities

The City of Allen invites qualified artists and artist teams to submit qualifications and concept proposals for a permanent, site-specific public art flooring installation to be incorporated into the main lobby of the new City of Allen Police Headquarters.

This commission presents an opportunity to create a meaningful and welcoming artwork that reflects the values of the Allen Police Department and the City of Allen. The selected artwork should celebrate public service, community partnership, integrity, safety, and the strong relationship between residents and law enforcement. The artwork will serve as a signature feature within the building, creating a memorable first impression for visitors, employees, and community members.

The selected artist or artist team will be responsible for the design, coordination with the project architect and flooring contractor, preparation of production-ready artwork files, and oversight during fabrication and installation to ensure the artistic vision is successfully integrated into the finished flooring system.

Location: Allen, Texas
Website: https://cms3.revize.com/revize/repository/allentx/City%20of%20Allen%20PDHQ%20Artist%20Call%201.pdf?1108
Deadline: 10/04/26

Job Features1

Job CategoryOpportunities
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

The City of Allen invites qualified artists and artist teams to submit qualifications and concept proposals for a permanent, site-specific public art flooring installation to be incorporated into the ...

The Kimbell Art Museum is currently accepting applications for Local Lens: Analog Photography Showcase taking place Saturday, December 12, 2026, in collaboration with Courtesy of, a Dallas-based curatorial project founded by Jesse Jackson IV and Katherine Stephens which focuses on lens-based art. The showcase is open to both amateur and professional photographers who work with analog photography techniques, including but not limited to film, wet plate, cyanotype, and other traditional processes.

Six artists will be selected and invited to display examples of their finished work, as well as artifacts of their processes, and engage with museum visitors to share information about their work. Each will receive a $150 honorarium. Artists are not required to be based in the DFW area but must be able to attend the showcase event in person on Saturday, December 12.

Location: Fort Worth, TX
Website: https://kimbellart.org/OpenCall
Deadline: 10/19/26

Job Features1

Job CategoryOpportunities
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

The Kimbell Art Museum is currently accepting applications for Local Lens: Analog Photography Showcase taking place Saturday, December 12, 2026, in collaboration with Courtesy of, a Dallas-based curat...

Surreal Times reflects on what surrealism means in current times. Whether you're paying homage to traditional surrealism as an art form and incorporating it in contemporary work, or portraying what surrealism means to you as an individual of this generation, we invite all kinds of interpretation of this iconic movement for this show.

CALL FOR ART NOW OPEN!
Texas-wide artists are welcome to submit up to 5 gallery-ready 3D and 2D original artwork for this exhibit. We accept different mediums like glass, ceramic, sculpture, fabric, textiles, paintings, photography, mixed media, etc. This show will run from October 1 to Nov 7, 2026 at Ghost Pepper Gallery.

Location: Austin, TX
Website: https://ghostpeppergallery.com/pages/surreal-times
Deadline: 09/18/26

Job Features1

Job CategoryOpportunities
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

Surreal Times reflects on what surrealism means in current times. Whether you’re paying homage to traditional surrealism as an art form and incorporating it in contemporary work, or portraying w...

 

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