Irving Arts Center

Irving Arts Center, located in Irving, Texas, was established in 1980 through the donation of six acres of land by Ben and Betty Carpenter. The City of Irving Arts Board was formed to oversee its development, funded by a portion of the local hotel room occupancy tax. The center opened its first phase in 1986, featuring administrative offices, meeting rooms, and a main gallery. By 1990, it expanded to include Carpenter Hall and Dupree Theater. The center now encompasses over 91,500 square feet, including two theaters and multiple gallery spaces. It hosts approximately 1,400 events annually, attracting over 100,000 visitors. Notable exhibitions have included works from the Smithsonian Institution and National Geographic. The center also offers extensive youth and family programs, including summer camps and monthly events. In 2007, it became an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, further enhancing its cultural offerings. The Sculpture Garden features works by renowned artists, contributing to the center's role as a vibrant community hub for the arts.