Get Involved with the Dougherty Arts Center
At the Dougherty Arts Center (DAC), we offer a variety of ways for individuals or organizations who are passionate about the arts to get involved.
Teen Arts Council
Applications for the 2027 inaugural Teen Arts Council will open November 10, 2026!
The Teen Arts Council (TAC) is a volunteer leadership program for creative teens across the Austin area. Open to teens ages 14–17 within the Austin Metro region, TAC brings together young leaders to help shape the future of local creativity. Members will gain hands-on experience, build leadership skills, and contribute their voices to the Austin arts community. The Teen Arts Council is for young adults who are interested in:
- Shaping Austin’s creative future
- Developing leadership skills
- Collaborating in a creative cohort
Members of the TAC must be able to commit to Teen Arts Council meetings, projects, and community arts events throughout the program year. Join The DAC mailing list below to receive updates about the Teen Arts Council. Join The DAC Mailing List.
For questions about the Teen Arts Council, email mackenzie.blair@austintexas.gov
- Teen Internships
Works in Progress (WIP) is an immersive program that prepares teens living in the Austin metropolitan area for careers in the arts. WIP Interns will focus on projects throughout the Dougherty Arts Center in art education, gallery exhibits, and event planning.
For more information, visit the Works In Progress website.
Volunteer Opportunities
One Time Volunteers:
The DAC depends on the support and time of volunteers. Volunteers help our staff maintain our dye garden, as well as assist with events, exhibits, and other special projects.
For individuals who may only want to volunteer occasionally, volunteer as a group, or for special events, visit the DAC GivePulse page where you will find all current volunteer postings. These opportunities are open to the general public who may only wish to volunteer occasionally, without the time commitment required of Program Volunteers.
- Reoccurring Program Volunteers
The DAC is not currently accepting applications for Reoccurring Program Volunteers.
The DAC’s Program Volunteers are committed to providing service and support on a regular basis, for at least 3 months. Because of this level of commitment, they are involved with every aspect of the DAC, which makes their role quite unique.
Roles and responsibilities can include but are not limited to:
- Clerical duties
- Monitoring and/or facilitating art activities
- Special Event assistance
- Customer service
- Assisting in the DAC Natural Dye Garden
- Research Projects
Program Volunteers do not have to have any prior experience volunteering or working within an arts organization. We welcome individuals of all backgrounds and experience levels to volunteer. If you are interested in being notified when Program Volunteer Applications open in late 2026, please join our Program Volunteer Mailing List.
For any questions or inquiries, please call (512) 974-4400 or e-mail us at DACInfo@austintexas.gov.
Collaborations
Interested in collaborating on a program with the Dougherty Arts Center?
The City of Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) department initiates its programs in response to a community need. Non-profits, community groups and individuals may suggest a collaborative program that is relevant to the ACME mission, values, and audience. Collaborations are city-sponsored programs hosted by the ACME site and presented in tandem with the collaborator. All collaborations are to be offered to the public free of charge and collaborators “volunteer” their service at no cost to the department.
Learn more at the Museums & Cultural Programs Collaboration Program webpage.
23rd Street Artists' Market
The 23rd Street Artists' Market is Austin's original open-air artists' market for artists to make and sell their own work. Licensed artists sell their handcrafted art year round, 7 days a week. The Dougherty Arts Center hosts membership meetings of the 23rd Street Artists' Market on the third Wednesday of each month. Attend an upcoming meeting, to learn more about getting involved with Austin's original outdoor market for handmade crafts.
Those interested in applying to sell at the 23rd Street Artists' Market will need to bring samples of their work, a Texas Sales Tax and Use certificate, a photo ID, and a credit card or cash (exact change only) for the licensing fee of $200. Or if applicable, proof of license fee exemption for those who are a senior (60 or older), a minor (17 or younger), or a person with a disability.
For more information, contact DACInfo@austintexas.gov.
- Monthly Meeting Dates
- Wednesday, October 21, 2026 7-8 p.m.
- Wednesday, November 18, 2026 7-8 p.m.
- Wednesday, December 9, 2026 7-8 p.m.