Discovering Dallas: Unexpected Art Spots in the Wild
Dallas is a vibrant city brimming with artistic surprises, where you can find incredible works of art beyond traditional museum walls. From whimsical sculptures to stunning murals, here are some cool spots to unexpectedly experience art "in the wild.
The Traveling Man
Located in the heart of Deep Ellum, The Traveling Man is a beloved public art installation by artist Brad Oldham, featuring the cool guitarshaped headed character with his BIRD friends. This vibrant, larger-thanlife sculpture pays homage to the area's rich musical heritage and captures the essence of Dallas culture. With its colorful tiles and playful design, this iconic figure is a must-see for anyone exploring the neighborhood.
The Giant Eyeball
Nestled in the Dallas Arts District, the Giant Eyeball is an intriguing sculpture by Chicago based artist Tony Tasset. The sculpture stands a striking 30 feet tall this sculpture is made of fiberglass, resin, and steel.
This whimsical piece invites curiosity and conversation, offering a playful contrast to the urban landscape. Its unique design makes it a perfect photo opportunity and a delightful addition to your Dallas art journey.
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The Dallas Love Wall
A symbol of positivity and community spirit, the Dallas Love Wall is a vibrant mural located in Deep Ellum. Created by artists Dusty Gilpin, this mural features bold colors and the iconic "LOVE" message that has become synonymous with the city of Dallas. It's a fantastic backdrop for photos and a reminder of Dallas's welcoming vibe.
Rosa Parks
At the West End Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) station, a life-size bronze statue of civil rights icon Rosa Parks sits on a bus bench, commemorating her historic act of resistance in 1955. Visitors can sit beside the statue, reflecting on her courage in defying racial segregation, with a powerful quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. engraved behind her. Created by San Francisco sculptor Erik Blome, the plaza serves as an inspiring tribute to the legacy of peaceful resistance.
The Cattle Drive Sculptures
Found in the Pioneer Plaza, the Cattle Drive Sculpturesare a remarkable homage to Dallas's ranching history. This top attraction in Dallas was created by artist Robert Summers. This impressive installation features 49 life-size bronze longhorns and cowboys in a dramatic, dynamic scene. It’s a great place to learn about Dallas's heritage while marveling at the artistry.
Deep Ellum 42 Murals Project
The 42 Murals Project was born from a simple idea: Scott Rohrmann and his partners invited North Texas artisans to transform the walls of Deep Ellum with their creativity. Out of more than 200 proposals, 42 artists were selected, representing a diverse mix of ages, perspectives, and styles. The murals have turned Deep Ellum into a vibrant hotspot for street art, attracting tourists and shedding the neighborhood’s old reputation as a rundown part of Dallas, while boosting the social media presence of both the area and the participating artists.
"Cancer… There’s Hope" by Victor Salmones
Located in Bryan Street’s **Cancer Survivors Plaza** in Downtown Dallas, the bronze sculpture **“Cancer… There’s Hope”** by Victor Salmones symbolizes a person’s journey through cancer, stepping through abstract gateways to a new stage of life. This powerful piece is part of a larger collection of sculptures in the park and has been displayed in various cities worldwide. Notably, it was the final work of Salmones’ career before his death in 1989, making it a meaningful tribute to his artistic legacy.
Dallas is a city where art can be discovered around every corner, enriching the urban experience and inviting everyone to engage with creativity in unexpected ways. We encourage you snap photos at some iconic Instagram worthy spots.
