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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TCA Grant Guidelines

Calendar Deadlines

Calendar of grant deadlines

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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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Texas Touring Roster

Congratulations to the Texas artists and arts companies who have been approved to the Texas Touring Roster for 2026-2028. The Texas Touring Roster features some of the state’s best artistic talent and is designed to ensure that all Texans may enjoy events and performances by these artists in their local communities. Performance Support applications to hire artists from this roster are available now.

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 Young Masters

TCA is excited to announce and congratulate the 2026 class of Young Masters, 15 of the top teen artists in Texas! Learn more about them and the $5,000 grant program here.

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June 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

Victoria Bach Festival | Victoria, Texas
Full-Time | Exempt
Salary: $65,000–$70,000
Application Deadline: August 7, 2026

About the Victoria Bach Festival
The Victoria Bach Festival is one of Texas’ premier classical music organizations, presenting nationally and internationally recognized artists through annual festival programming and year-round educational and community engagement initiatives. As the Festival enters its next chapter following its 50th Anniversary Season in 2025, we seek an experienced and dynamic Executive Director to lead the organization into the future.

Position Summary
The Executive Director serves as the chief executive officer of the Victoria Bach Festival and works closely with the Artistic Director and Board of Directors to advance the organization’s mission, artistic vision, financial sustainability, and community impact.

This position is responsible for fundraising, financial management, strategic leadership, operations, marketing oversight, and community engagement. The Executive Director serves as the Festival’s primary ambassador to donors, sponsors, community partners, and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Governance
● Implement strategic priorities in partnership with the Board and Artistic Director.
● Support effective board governance, planning, recruitment, and engagement.
● Foster a collaborative, mission-driven organizational culture.
● Ensure compliance with nonprofit regulations and organizational policies.
● Represent the Festival within the community and throughout the region.

Fundraising & Development
● Lead annual and long-term fundraising efforts.
● Cultivate, solicit, and steward individual, corporate, foundation, and government donors.
● Oversee grant identification, writing, reporting, and compliance.
● Support fundraising events and donor engagement initiatives.
● Strengthen and grow the Festival endowment.

Financial & Administrative Management
● Develop and manage annual budgets.
● Provide accurate financial reporting and analysis to the Board.
● Maintain strong financial controls and stewardship of organizational resources.
● Oversee contracts, insurance, licensing, payroll, and vendor relationships.

Festival Operations
● Lead planning and execution of the annual Festival and year-round programs.
● Supervise staff, contractors, and volunteers.
● Oversee artist services, production logistics, scheduling, travel, accommodations, venue coordination, and contracts.
● Ensure effective ticketing, donor database, CRM, and office technology systems.
● Maintain an active presence during Festival events and performances.
Marketing & Community Engagement
● Oversee marketing, communications, website content, social media, and audience development efforts.
● Build partnerships with educational, business, civic, and arts organizations.
● Serve as a visible advocate for the Festival and its mission.

Qualifications
Required
● Bachelor’s degree.
● Five or more years of leadership experience in a nonprofit, arts, educational, cultural, or other mission-driven organization.
● Demonstrated success in fundraising and donor development.
● Experience managing budgets and financial operations.
● Experience leading staff, volunteers, and multiple projects.
● Strong communication, relationship-building, and public speaking skills.

Preferred
● Advanced degree in business, nonprofit management, arts administration, or a related field.
● Experience working with boards of directors.
● Experience with grant management.
● Familiarity with QuickBooks, DonorPerfect, Mailchimp, and Microsoft Office.
● Experience in the performing arts or classical music.

Candidates from other nonprofit sectors with strong leadership, fundraising, and operational experience are encouraged to apply.

Compensation & Benefits
● Salary: $65,000–$70,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
● Four weeks paid vacation
● Sick leave
● Family leave
● Professional development opportunities
● Flexible scheduling outside Festival production periods

Location
The Executive Director is expected to reside in or near Victoria, Texas, and become an active participant in the community.

To Apply
Please submit:
● Cover letter
● Resume
● Brief statement describing your philosophy of nonprofit leadership and community engagement
Email application materials to jobs@victoriabachfestival.org.

Applications will be reviewed after the August 7, 2026 deadline and handled confidentially.

Equal Opportunity Employer
The Victoria Bach Festival is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on any basis protected by applicable law.

Deadline: 09/01/26
Location: Victoria, TX
Website: https://victoriabachfestival.org/

Job Features1

Job CategoryJobs
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

Victoria Bach Festival | Victoria, TexasFull-Time | ExemptSalary: $65,000–$70,000Application Deadline: August 7, 2026 About the Victoria Bach FestivalThe Victoria Bach Festival is one of Texas’ pr...

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

Performs moderately complex administrative support and program assistance work. Work involves disseminating information, maintaining filing systems, and performing internal administrative support work. May train others. Works in support of Program Administrators. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

RESPONSIBILITIES
• Provides outstanding customer service while serving as first point of contact for new grant applicants and the public
• Assists applicants and grantees with timely and accurate information and technical assistance on the agency’s grants programs
• Maintains filing, record-keeping, and agency records management systems
• Performs general office duties such as ordering supplies, basic bookkeeping work, answering the telephone, and assembling presentation materials
• Coordinates meetings, conferences, and seminars
• Participates in the planning and execution of agency programs

QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in administrative support work. Graduation from a standard senior high school or equivalent is required. Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with major course work in the arts, public administration, business, or a related field is generally preferred. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.

Solid knowledge of MS Outlook, Word, and Excel, Asana, etc.
Knowledge of office practices and administrative procedures.
Ability to implement administrative procedures; to interpret rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; to communicate effectively, and to train others.
Background and/or interest in the arts or arts-related fields.

REMARKS
A State of Texas Application must be submitted electronically at https://www.workintexas.com (Job Posting ID: 17042383) to be considered for this position. Please email resumes to hr@arts.texas.gov. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a State of Texas Application.

Military Crosswalk information for this position can be found at: http://www.hr.sao.texas.gov/Compensation/MilitaryCrosswalk/MOSC_AdministrativeSupport.pdf

This job is covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
TCA does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex national origin, age, disability, or veteran status

Location: Austin, Texas
Website: https://www.arts.texas.gov
Deadline: until filled

Job Features1

Job CategoryJobs
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

GENERAL DESCRIPTION Performs moderately complex administrative support and program assistance work. Work involves disseminating information, maintaining filing systems, and performing internal adminis...

Organizational Description
For 49 years, Mid-Texas Symphony has enriched the cultural life of Central Texas through exceptional performances, educational programming, and community engagement. Serving Seguin, New Braunfels, and surrounding communities, the Symphony is committed to creating memorable experiences that ignite and sustain a lifelong appreciation of symphonic music.
As our region continues to grow, Mid-Texas Symphony is expanding its reach, deepening donor relationships, and strengthening the systems necessary to support long-term sustainability. We are seeking a Development Manager who is passionate about relationship-building, stewardship, and creating meaningful connections between donors and our mission.

Position Summary
The Development Manager is responsible for leading and strengthening the Symphony's annual fundraising and donor stewardship efforts while building the systems, processes, and relationships necessary to support long-term organizational growth.
Working closely with the Executive Director, Board leadership, and Development Committee, the Development Manager will cultivate and steward donors, strengthen donor retention, grow subscriber-to-donor conversion, and build a sustainable major gift pipeline. This role requires an individual who is equally comfortable building authentic donor relationships and creating the organizational systems that ensure consistent stewardship and follow-through.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, self-directed, relationship-oriented, and committed to advancing the mission of Mid-Texas Symphony through thoughtful donor engagement and exceptional stewardship.
Mid-Texas Symphony offers a competitive salary range of $58,000-$65,000, a SIMPLE IRA employer match up to 3%, an employer-paid healthcare membership, hybrid work flexibility, paid time off, professional development opportunities, and eligibility for an annual performance incentive. We are committed to providing a collaborative, flexible, and supportive workplace where employees can thrive professionally and personally.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Donor Relations & Fundraising
  • Cultivate, steward, and strengthen relationships with current and prospective donors.
  • Develop and implement donor engagement strategies that increase retention, loyalty, and long-term support.
  • Assist in identifying, cultivating, and soliciting major gift prospects.
  • Support the Executive Director and Board leadership in donor cultivation and stewardship activities.
  • Manage donor acknowledgment, recognition, and stewardship processes.
  • Coordinate donor receptions, cultivation events, and engagement opportunities throughout the season.
  • Help grow subscriber-to-donor conversion and annual giving participation.

Development Systems & Infrastructure

  • Maintain accurate donor records and relationship histories within the donor database.
  • Develop and manage donor stewardship systems and tracking processes.
  • Create and maintain fundraising dashboards, reports, and performance metrics.
  • Implement portfolio segmentation strategies to improve donor engagement.
  • Assist in developing a sustainable major gift pipeline and donor journey process.

Marketing & Communications Support

  • Collaborate with staff and volunteers to support donor communications and fundraising campaigns.
  • Assist with donor-focused marketing materials, appeals, and stewardship communications.
  • Support efforts to communicate the impact of donor investment and community engagement.

Organizational Leadership & Community Engagement

  • Represent Mid-Texas Symphony at concerts, donor events, and community functions.
  • Support front-of-house donor engagement activities during performances and special events.
  • Participate as an active member of the Symphony team, contributing to a collaborative and mission-driven culture.
  • Other duties as assigned in support of development and organizational goals.

Core Competencies

  • Relationship Building: Builds authentic, trust-based relationships with donors, patrons, volunteers, board members, and community stakeholders to strengthen long-term engagement and support.
  • Planning & Organizing: Effectively manages multiple priorities, donor relationships, stewardship activities, and reporting through strong organizational systems and consistent follow-through.
  • Initiative: Takes ownership of responsibilities, identifies opportunities, and advances projects and relationships with minimal supervision.
  • Collaboration: Works cooperatively with staff, musicians, volunteers, board members, and community stakeholders to achieve goals and support a positive team culture.
  • Adaptability & Emotional Intelligence: Demonstrates self-awareness, professionalism, and adaptability while building trust and working effectively with a variety of personalities.

Skills & Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
  • Two or more years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, advancement, nonprofit management, arts administration, hospitality, customer relations, or a related field preferred.
  • Experience managing databases, CRM systems, donor management software, or similar relationship management platforms preferred.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed for concerts, donor events, and special programs.
  • Passion for the arts and commitment to the mission of Mid-Texas Symphony.

Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $58,000 - $65,000 based on experience
In addition to base compensation, the Development Manager may be eligible for an annual performance incentive based on overall performance and achievement of agreed-upon annual goals.

Additional benefits include:
-Employer-paid Direct Primary Care membership with no employee cost

  • 3% employer match through the organization's SIMPLE IRA retirement plan
  • Hybrid work schedule with up to two remote workdays per week, based on organizational needs and performance schedules
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Flexible scheduling opportunities following concerts, donor events, and major organizational activities
  • Opportunity to help shape and grow the Symphony's fundraising program

To Apply
Please submit a cover letter and resume to jobs@mtsymphony.org
This search is being conducted in partnership with Cielo Strategy Group.

Mid-Texas Symphony is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.

Deadline: 08/31/26
Location: Seguin and New Braunfels, Texas
Website: https://www.mtsymphony.org

Job Features1

Job CategoryJobs
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

Organizational DescriptionFor 49 years, Mid-Texas Symphony has enriched the cultural life of Central Texas through exceptional performances, educational programming, and community engagement. Serving ...

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Art Opportunities

Texas students in grades K-12 are invited to participate in the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Take Care of Texas Student Art Contest. Entries are accepted from October 5, 2026 to December 18, 2026.

To enter, students must submit original artwork portraying ways to reduce waste. Winners and runners-up in each category will win cash prizes, and students in grades 11–12 are eligible for up to $2,000 in scholarships!

Artwork Requirements:

  • Artwork must depict ways Texans can reduce waste.
  • Artwork must include the phrase "Take Care of Texas" spelled correctly.
  • Artwork must be submitted on an 8.5" x 11" piece of paper (landscape format is recommended).

To get the full list of requirements and learn how to submit your artwork, visit https://takecareoftexas.org/education/art-contest-rules

Deadline: 12/19/26
Location: Texas
Website: https://takecareoftexas.org/education/take-care-texas-art-contest

Job Features1

Job CategoryOpportunities
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

Texas students in grades K-12 are invited to participate in the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s Take Care of Texas Student Art Contest. Entries are accepted from October 5, 2026 to Decem...

The Nacogdoches Arts Collaborative’s Falling Star Gallery is proud to announce an art competition and exhibition in honor of the 250th Birthday of the USA.

The idea came from the big brain of Terry (TL) Steed, who could quote the Constitution and tell you all about each amendment, including when it was ratified. When asked by his sister how to “do more than vote”, he said, “Well, you DO have an art gallery and America’s birthday is September 2026.”

An idea was born. Then in October 2025, TL passed after a brief illness. So the contest has become the TL Steed Memorial Constitution Competition & Exhibition: What the Constitution Means to Me. Before he exited, he donated the seed money for the prizes and suggested one of the jurors. First and foremost, TL would want you to read the Constitution and pick what moves you.

https://www.senate.gov/about/origins-foundations/senate-and-constitution/constitution.htm

DETAILS & RULES

Artists 16 and over are invited to enter original work in Falling Star Gallery’s “What the Constitution Means to Me” show, to be held August 22nd - September 19th, 2026. Entrants will choose a passage from the US Constitution (including the Bill of Rights and all amendments) and create a piece of art inspired by the passage.

Do NOT use current politicians blatantly. Clever artists can lay their thoughts between the lines. Any piece using images of politicians other than the founding fathers will find their pieces disqualified. No matter your politics, this contest is about the Constitution, which I think we all agree is dandy.

RULES

The gallery hopes to hang all entries that follow the rules.

  1. There is a $20 fee to enter. Artists may enter a maximum of two pieces, but each must be entered separately.
  2. Artists must register on our website www.nacartscollab.com/constitution, and pay their tax deductible fee using our Give Butter platform. If an artist does not have a computer or needs assistance, we will accept a hand completed entry form and $20 cash or check. Credit card payments only available on our website (which includes options for Paypal and Venmo). Questions? Contact our administrator at info@nacartscollab.com
    Please register as early as possible so we have an idea what’s coming.
  3. Finished entries must be delivered by August 22nd, 2026. Attach the Art ID form, which includes name & title and the passage from the Constitution that inspired your art. Mailed entries will also be accepted, but must be received by August 1st. Mailed entries must be registered prior to mailing. Send to: Constitution Show, AL Steed, 403 County Road 821, Nacogdoches, TX 75964. Roundtrip postage is up to you. Please advise by email if you have mailed an entry.
  4. Entries can be in any visual art form, 2D, 3D, written (such as poetry or song), or film (3 minute limit). However, any medium that requires a player or equipment, the equipment must be provided by you and will be returned at the end of the show. Any film, music or noisy piece will need headphones provided. The gallery owns a limited number of pedestals and easels.
  5. Any AI will be disqualified.
  6. Artwork must be ready to hang or display, wires, etc. Include any special instructions in writing.
  7. Though we do not have specific size restrictions, please remember that the space is limited and anything that is huge better be spectacular to be included. It is our hope to include as many entries as possible in the exhibition.
  8. This contest will be juried by members of the gallery’s exhibition committee and two attorneys involved in the arts. Entries will be judged based on creativity/uniqueness, interpretation of the theme, overall visual appeal.
  9. Cash and other prizes will be awarded. A minimum of $600 in cash will be awarded to 3 top winners (1st-$300, 2nd-$200, 3rd-$100). There will also be a People’s Choice award based on visitor votes. It is possible there will be additional prizes based on sponsorship opportunities.
  10. Your piece(s) can be for sale or not. You may retain ownership. IF it is for sale, the split is 40% to NAC, 60% to you, or you can donate your piece to NAC for sale or auction.
  11. There will be both opening and closing receptions and the show will be open for viewing on Saturdays from 11am-4pm, or by appointment.
  12. Winners will be announced August 15 at approximately 3:00pm.

NO GLITTER unless its REALLY ATTACHED, NO PERISHABLE ART,
No pornography (tasteful nudity ok), no hate talk of any kind and appropriate for high schoolers.

The address to deliver: 320 North street, Suite 307, Saturdays, 11-4 starting July 11th. Or by appointment, text 917-209-1050 or email info@nacartscollab.com. All delivered art must have an art form attached.

Register here: https://nacartscollab.com/constitution-show-registration

No obligation or liability is assumed by NAC in connection with the contest.

Deadline: 08/15/26
Location: Nacogdoches, TX
Website: https://nacartscollab.com/constitution-show-registration

Job Features1

Job CategoryOpportunities
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

The Nacogdoches Arts Collaborative’s Falling Star Gallery is proud to announce an art competition and exhibition in honor of the 250th Birthday of the USA. The idea came from the big brain of Terry ...

Southside Education and Training Center (SETC) Public Arts Project

Issued by: Alamo Colleges District
Location: San Antonio, Texas
Submission Deadline: August 17, 2026
Contact Email: ecastillo34@alamo.edu

Overview
The Alamo Colleges District seeks artists or artist teams interested in creating, fabricating, and installing a site-specific exterior sculpture for the Southside Education and Training Center (SETC), a member of the Alamo College District. This Request for Qualifications (RFQ) will establish a pool of pre-qualified artists who may be invited to submit a full art proposal in our Request for Proposals (RFP) application in the fall.

About the Southside Education & Training Center at the Alamo Colleges District
The Southside Education and Training Center (SETC) serves as a workforce development hub that prepares individuals for careers in high-demand industries. Its programs include Information Technology, Healthcare, Advanced Manufacturing, Skilled Trades, Business and Professional Services, Transportation and Logistics, and other industry-recognized credential pathways designed to meet regional workforce needs. SETC supports a diverse community of learners, including recent high school graduates, working adults seeking career advancement, military veterans and their spouses, career changers, underemployed and unemployed individuals, and lifelong learners from a wide range of cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
As a catalyst for economic mobility and workforce development across San Antonio’s South Side and the greater Bexar County region, SETC connects residents with education, employer partnerships, and meaningful career opportunities. Through accessible training and industry-aligned programming, the center strengthens both the local workforce and regional economy while fostering opportunity, resilience, innovation, and lifelong learning. SETC stands as an important community asset that empowers individuals and responds to the evolving needs of area employers.

Eligibility
This call is open to all professional artists or artist teams with experience in creating public art installations. Artists from all backgrounds, cultures, and artistic styles are encouraged to apply. Local and Texas-based artists are especially encouraged to participate and incorporate their unique insights into the project.

Specific Eligibility Requirements:

  • Are 21 years of age or older
  • Have experience with public or institutional art
  • Can demonstrate successful completion of completed projects of this scale
    All qualified applicants will be considered.
    Submission Requirements

Please submit the following materials as a single PDF document:

  1. Artist Statement (1 page maximum):

○ Describe your artistic approach and any relevant experience working on public art projects, particularly those requiring public engagement.

  1. Resume or CV:

○ Highlight previous public art, mural, or community-based work.

  1. Portfolio:

○ Include 5–10 images of past public art projects with brief descriptions (title, date, location, size, materials, budget).

○ For each sample, if applicable, include the title, date, location, dimensions, materials used, budget, and your role in the project.

  1. References:

○ Provide contact information for two individuals familiar with your work in public or commissioned art.

Submission Instructions
● Format: Submit all materials in a single PDF document.

● Email: Send your submission to ecastillo34@alamo.edu with the subject line: "RFQ Submission – [Your Name]".

● Deadline: All submissions must be received by August 17, 2026.

Selection Process
Submissions will be reviewed based on:
● Artistic Quality and Originality: Demonstrated through past work and artist statement.

● Experience: Ability to execute projects efficiently and on time, with experience in public, urban, or collaborative settings.

● Flexibility: Responsiveness to site-specific needs and changing urban conditions.

Artists selected through this RFQ will be invited to submit a full art proposal and art rendering.
Timeline (Subject to Change)
● RFQ Release Date: July 1, 2026

● Submission Deadline: August 17, 2026

● Notification of Selection: October 2026

● RFP Deadline (if selected): November 2026

Contact Information
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Dr. Eric Castillo
Associate Vice Chancellor for Arts, Culture, and Community Impact/San Antonio Peace Center
Alamo Colleges District
ecastillo34@alamo.edu

Deadline: 08/17/26
Location: San Antonio Texas
Website: https://www.alamo.edu/about-us/offices-departments/departments/arts-culture-community

Job Features1

Job CategoryOpportunities
Closing Date05/19/25
LocationLocation
WebsiteWebsite

Southside Education and Training Center (SETC) Public Arts Project Issued by: Alamo Colleges DistrictLocation: San Antonio, TexasSubmission Deadline: August 17, 2026Contact Email: ecastillo34@alamo.ed...

 

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