Experience the dynamic environment of Austin's oldest community arts venue through provocative theater, music and dance performances, intriguing art exhibits, lively date nights, and a robust studio arts program for youth and adults. The Dougherty Arts Center has been the heart of the arts in Austin since 1978 and is committed to supporting emerging through established artists by creating opportunities to showcase work and experience art first hand.
Since 1978, the DAC has thrived as one of Austin’s most cherished and affordable community arts centers, featuring live performances, gallery exhibits, and art classes. From our fine arts preschool to our popular summer camps and afterschool arts programs, we’ve got your kids art cravings covered. Practice drawing, painting, darkroom photography, ceramics and more in a supportive adult studio environment. Check out creative opportunities in our Artist Resource Center. Visit our 2,400 square foot gallery space, catch a live theater or music performance in our 150 seat theater, and meet new friends at our monthly Date Night. With so much going on, there is always something for everyone at the DAC.
"Sum You Some Me", Felice House & Dana Younger
Mission
The mission of the Dougherty Arts Center (DAC) is to support emerging through established artists who create, showcase, and experience the arts first hand. We envision the DAC as Austin’s cultural living room where people of all ages, races, ethnicities, abilities, genders, sexual orientations, socio-economic statuses, nationalities, and religions gather to create community through the arts.
History
Formally a Naval and Marine Reserve Center, built in 1947, the building was dedicated to the City and named for the late arts advocate Mary Ireland Graves in 1978. Since then, the Dougherty Arts Center (DAC) has been offering arts experiences for a broad audience through its three main components- The Dougherty Theater, Julia C. Butridge Gallery and the Dougherty Arts School.
Trouble Puppet Theater Company Presents "The Bomb In HayMarket Square"
Planning Your Visit
Located just south of the Colorado River, (see map for directions) the Dougherty Arts Center overlooks the iconic Butler Park and ever growing Austin skyline. Admission to the Julia C. Butridge Gallery is always free. After visiting the DAC, enjoy a meal at one of the many nearby popular Austin restaurants, located along Barton Springs Road. Click here for more FAQs about visiting the DAC.
Parking
Parking at the Dougherty Arts Center is always free. During business hours, guests will need to check in at the front desk to receive a parking permit while on premise. During special events, the DAC will close its parking lot to the public. Patrons and guests of the DAC will not need to display a parking permit when the parking lot is officially closed to the general public. Guests and patrons include anyone visiting the gallery, creative spaces, performance or special events, or anyone who is attending a workshop or class.
Planet Music "Dance Around The World" Photo Courtesy Miklos Lorant
Support Us!
Want to support the Dougherty Arts center and stay up to date with the latest news on workshops, performances, exhibits, receptions and more? Join our mailing list and receive our monthly e-newsletter. You can also follow the Dougherty Arts Center on Facebook, Instagram and Nextdoor. For more information on becoming involved with the DAC and support the Austin arts community visit our Get Involved page.
"Saude", Adrienne Hodge & Katie Ryan
Staff
Guiniviere Webb Culture & Arts Education Manager 512-974-4019
Lucy Miller-Downing Theater & Events Coordinator 512-974-4045
Daphne Holland Adult Arts Education Specialist 512-974-4033
Catherine Chao Youth Arts Education Specialist 512-974-4022
Jefferson Lykins Theater & Events Assistant Producer 512-974-4002
James Byers Culture and Arts Specialist 512-974-4069
Lori Luce Business Office Specialist 512-974-4036
Drew Garcia Maintenance 512-974-4010
Norma Zapata Housekeeping 512-974-4010