

The Austin Parks and Recreation Department is taking the next steps toward moving the Dougherty Arts Center out of the beloved naval center and into a newly envisioned building to be constructed on Butler Shores Park. Please join us at the first online meeting to discuss the future of the DAC.
DAC Replacement Project Webpage
In light of the recent Stay Home-Work Safe Order requiring residents to stay home as much as possible, the DAC is proud to offer free digital programming for the public. Programs will be updated on a weekly basis beginning in early April.

Create Away is a digital after school program held over Zoom where elementary-aged students can connect with others, socialize with peers, and flex their creative skills under the guidance of our Arts Instructors who specialize in various visual, performing, and digital arts mediums. The goal of Create Away is to give students a supportive virtual environment to come together, have fun, and foster creative expression from home.

There’s always something happening at the Dougherty Arts Center! Take part in a variety of events including theatre performances, gallery openings, workshops, and Date Nights. See our Programs and Events page for a list of upcoming events.

The Julia C. Butridge Gallery features artists and arts organizations in exhibitions that include all mediums and address diverse subject matters. For more information, please contact JCBGallery@austintexas.gov

The Dougherty Arts School provides a variety of adult classes and youth programs. View the Parks and Recreation Department's Local Standards of Care Ordinance for youth programs here.

The Artist Resource Center is a place for emerging and established artists of all mediums to engage and collaborate. Functioning as a no cost meeting and research space for the arts community, the Artist Resource Center offers the tools for creatives to develop and advance their careers in the arts.

The DAC Theater is an attractive, comfortable 150-seat proscenium theater complete with lighting and sound systems, box office and concession areas, dressing rooms, gallery entrance and outdoor marquee. For more information, please contact dactheater@austintexas.gov, or call 512-974-4045.
For room reservation requests and policies, please use the Room Request Form and email it to DACinfo@austintexas.gov

Learn all about the Dougherty Arts Center through our history and mission. Find information about our facility, parking, and frequently asked questions.

At the DAC, we offer a variety of ways for individuals or organizations who are passionate about the arts to get involved. Take a look at how you can become a part of the DAC community!