The Dalles Art Center Announces Call for Artists, Instructors, and Vendors for Upcoming Hispanic Heritage Exhibit
The Dalles, Ore., July 9, 2025 — This fall, The Dalles Art Center (TDAC) will come alive with color, rhythm, and flavor during its upcoming Hispanic Heritage Exhibit, an immersive, five-week celebration of Latino/a/e/x culture through visual arts, music, dance, food, and storytelling.
TDAC is currently seeking visual artists, cultural instructors, performers, and Hispanic-owned food vendors to participate in this vibrant, community-centered event series.
The exhibition will feature 8–10 selected artists whose work reflects the richness of Hispanic heritage in the Columbia Gorge. A blend of traditional and contemporary work is encouraged, and all art forms are welcome.
“This exhibit is more than a gallery show—it’s a celebration of the voices, traditions, and innovations that make up our diverse community,” said Ellen Potter, Executive Director of The Dalles Art Center.
Opening Night Community Celebration – August 22, 2025
The exhibit will kick off with a lively outdoor celebration on August 22, from 4:00-8:00 PM in front of The Dalles Art Center, featuring:
Live music and cultural performances
Food vendors highlighting Hispanic cuisine
Community and cultural booths
Hands-on art activities and celebration of local heritage
Applications are open now for Hispanic-owned food vendors, cultural organizations, and performers interested in participating in this high-energy community event.
Call for Visual Artists
The Dalles Art Center invites submissions in a range of visual media, including:
Painting & Drawing
Sculpture & Woodwork
Fiber Arts & Textiles
Traditional Paper Arts
Other mixed media
Selected artists may also participate in programming such as artist talks, interactive demos, or educational workshops. Work will be exhibited under a 70/30 commission split for TDAC members and 60/40 for non- members.
Call for Instructors & Performers
The exhibit will include five themed weeks of workshops and cultural events. TDAC is seeking teaching artists and cultural practitioners to lead public programs in the following areas:
Week 1: Culinary Arts – Traditional cooking, tasting events, food history
Week 2: Visual Arts – Painting, drawing, or mixed media
Week 3: 3D Arts – Sculpture, woodwork, fiber, or traditional crafts
Week 4: Music & Dance – Live music, dance instruction, or performances
Week 5: Written Word – Storytelling, poetry, or writing workshops
How to Apply
Deadline: July 31, 2025
Submit applications by email to director@thedallesartcenter.org with the following:
Visual Artists:
Artist statement and short bio
3–5 images of work (with titles, medium, and dimensions)
Optional: proposal for a community, educational, or interactive element
Instructors & Performers:
Brief proposal for your class, workshop, or performance
Resume or bio
Any supporting media (video, images, documentation)
Food Vendors & Cultural Booths:
Description of offerings
Business name, contact info, and required licenses
Submissions from both emerging and established creatives are welcome. The Dalles Art Center strongly encourages applications from Latino/a/e/x artists, educators, and entrepreneurs.
This exhibit is generously sponsored by the Wasco County Cultural Trust, Casa El Mirador, and Columbia Gorge Real Estate.
For more information, visit www.thedallesartcenter.org or contact director@thedallesartcenter.org for English, or paloma.ayalavela@gmail.com for Spanish.
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The Dalles Art Center (TDAC) connects people in the greater Mid-Columbia Gorge region through engaging and exploring art because a creative and connected community thrives together. TDAC, housed in a historic 1910 Carnegie Library, offers art education and public programs for children, adults, and seniors. Local artists and artisans exhibit and sell their work in the gallery.
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