Tuition keeps our doors open. Donors keep them open to everyone.
For 60+ years, we've been the place in Dallas where art gets made, not just admired.
This city gives generously to the museums and galleries where art hangs on the wall; far less reaches the studios where people learn to throw a pot, cast a ring, or pull a print with their own hands. That’s the gap we fill. Because 92% of our budget is earned through tuition, your gift doesn’t cover overhead — it puts tools in more hands and brings a seat in the studio within reach of anyone who wants one.
92%
earned revenue
2,500
students / year
510
classes
50+
scholarships / year
What your gift makes possible
Where your donation goes
The Creative Arts Center was founded by sculptor Octavio Medellín, who taught the students other places turned away — people without formal training, and people who couldn't pay. For 60+ years that has stayed our purpose: making a seat in the studio reachable for anyone who wants one, whatever they can afford or wherever they're starting from. Give where the need is greatest, or choose the work you'd most like to support.
| Scholarships & low-barrier access | Help with tuition and supplies so cost is never the reason someone can't take a class; every request was granted last year. |
| Camp MetalHead | A free summer program for teens at our studio, with outreach into lower-income schools to bring in young makers who might never find us on their own. |
| Art out in the community | Art as a Second Language at Klyde Warren Park and neighborhood events, meeting people where no studio exists. |
| Equitable Artist in Residence | Stipends, paid teaching, and a gallery show; five of eight past residents now teach or work at CAC. |
| Materials and equipment | In students' hands — clay, canvas, and the tools that make them work. |
| Keeping the kilns and studios running | Firing, wheels, and upkeep — our largest recurring cost. |
Bigger ways to give
Partner with us
CAC is Dallas's most efficient arts institution — 92% earned revenue means your investment expands capacity, it doesn't just cover overhead. Corporate partnerships are tailored to your goals; the levels below are a starting point, and every partnership begins with a conversation.
Custom partnerships up to studio- and campus-naming level are available for lead gifts — just ask.
| Level | Investment | Recognition & engagement |
|---|---|---|
| Presenting Partner | $10,000+ | Present a signature program or exhibition; naming opportunities; logo on materials and website; private reception; team art experience |
| Supporting Partner | $5,000–$9,999 | Co-branded workshop or discipline series; employee engagement day; recognition at events and in the annual report |
| Community Partner | $1,000–$4,999 | Event sponsorship; logo on seasonal materials; recognition at openings and exhibitions |
| In-Kind Partner | Any level | Materials, printing, catering, or professional services — recognized alongside cash partners |
Major & named gifts
Fund a named scholarship or studio, or make a leadership gift toward our $500,000 goal.
Capital & Facilities
Underwrite a concrete need from our $212,000 campus list — floors, electrical, a new kiln, safety equipment — recognized with a permanent plaque.
Legacy giving
Remember the Center in your estate plans. A personal, confidential conversation to honor you or a loved one — never a transactional ask.