Denison Arts Blog
- Learn More About Our Texas Historical Cultural Arts District & Artists
Current DAC Events
Catch up with the latest news at Denison Arts Council! Between rotating exhibitions at 517 Gallery, festivals on Main Street, and monthly reception events, there’s always something to do with DAC.
Bored on a Saturday night? Come to our monthly 517 Gallery events on the second Saturday of each month from 4-6 PM for free food & wine, plus an artist talk, demo, or other activity for artists and appreciators of art alike. How about a public art tour? Check out our public art map and take a friend on a mini road trip around town to check out some amazing murals & sculptures.
Our blog will help you keep up with upcoming events & stay informed about Denison’s arts culture. Check out some highlights here or scroll down the page to learn about local artists and businesses!
Texoma Area Local Artists

Vibrant Visuals Art Exhibition
Vibrant Visuals is a dynamic art exhibition currently at 517 Gallery. True to its name, the show celebrates color in exciting ways. Vibrant Visuals features a wide range of artworks from local artists and reflects unique viewpoints and artistic styles. With over fifty different pieces on display, the exhibition includes a rich mix of art forms. These forms include bold paintings, compelling photographs, detailed collages, and thought-provoking sculptural wall pieces.

Shawnda Rains Entertainment
Shawnda Rains Entertainment is a music and performance studio located on Main Street in Downtown Denison. It is home to Stagestruck, an exciting performance group that has been entertaining audiences across the country for the last ten years. Stagestruck is known for their impressive singers, powerful performances, and wonderful stage presence.

Mark Nagel, Sparrows Art Gallery
Mark describes Sparrows as a traditional art gallery that features a wide range of works from 32 talented artists. The gallery focuses on quality and craftsmanship, showcasing various artistic styles and techniques. Mark also offers custom picture framing services, using over 39 years of experience to deliver great results at competitive prices.
Oliver White
Musicians have unique paths to success that shape their talents through various experiences. Local musician Oliver White from Denison is inspired by both his personal life and the lives of others.
Nitia Musico, Monsters On Main
Denison’s Nitia Musico is an acclaimed example of an entrepreneur who created a new way of gaining consumers’ interest and then incorporating it into her existing business.
The Artistry of Steve O. Black
From an early age, Steve O. Black exhibited a penchant for creation, vividly illustrated by childhood memories of fashioning intricate objects from found materials and boldly experimenting with unconventional mediums.
Clora Larea Bryant
Clora Larea Bryant (1927-2019) wasn’t just a renowned American jazz trumpeter who graced the stage with legends; she was a Denison native who defied expectations and carved her name in the history of jazz.
Denison Businesses Featuring Local Artists

Shawnda Rains Entertainment
Shawnda Rains Entertainment is a music and performance studio located on Main Street in Downtown Denison. It is home to Stagestruck, an exciting performance group that has been entertaining audiences across the country for the last ten years. Stagestruck is known for their impressive singers, powerful performances, and wonderful stage presence.

Mark Nagel, Sparrows Art Gallery
Mark describes Sparrows as a traditional art gallery that features a wide range of works from 32 talented artists. The gallery focuses on quality and craftsmanship, showcasing various artistic styles and techniques. Mark also offers custom picture framing services, using over 39 years of experience to deliver great results at competitive prices.
Nitia Musico, Monsters On Main
Denison’s Nitia Musico is an acclaimed example of an entrepreneur who created a new way of gaining consumers’ interest and then incorporating it into her existing business.
Denison Arts Council Artist Registry
Ruth Elizabeth Nuckols Cox Williamson
I am a mixed media artist, writer, vocalist. My art comes from curiosity and problem solving about organic and digital systems, light and movement.
E-Flat Porch Band
For over 25 years, The E-Flat Porch Band from McKinney has been playing their Blues and folk music.
David Hardy
I’m David Hardy, owner of Dave’s LifeStyle Photography. I am a Professional Photographer, member Professional Photographers Assoc, Oklahoma PPA, and Texas PPA. My business is located west of Caney, OK in the country with 20 acres of photo opportunities and a modern studio.
Shelley Tate Garner
Shelley Tate Garner has been featured in numerous group and solo exhibitions across the United States and received awards for her painting and sculpture works. Her work is included in prominent private and corporate collections across the United States, Canada, and Germany.