Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrea Lamarsaude.
Hi Andrea, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The East Dallas Arts District was born from a simple idea: East Dallas deserved a stronger, more visible artistic presence. The seeds were planted in 2022 with the opening of Art on Main in Old East Dallas, by artist and entrepreneur Andrea Lamarsaude, a creative hub offering working artist studios and a gallery space. It became clear to Andrea and other creative leaders in East Dallas (Terri Thoman/Paper Arts, Jason Cohen/Curiosities & Ephemeral Space Gallery, Jacque Forsher/SLANT Artist Collective and Logan Renfrow/Blue Dragon Fine Art Gallery) that the community was brimming with talent but lacked a unified voice to bring it all together.
Out of that realization, the East Dallas Arts District was formed. Its mission to connect artists, local businesses, and neighborhoods in ways that make art accessible and woven into the fabric of daily life. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a dynamic nonprofit, one that showcases the diversity and creativity of East Dallas through exhibitions, workshops, community collaborations, and a signature event, the annual Art Walk EAST.
Today, the East Dallas Arts District continues to expand its reach with innovative projects such as the Little Local Neighborhood Art Galleries, bringing rotating, small-scale artworks into the heart of neighborhoods. The East Dallas Arts District reflects the power of art to strengthen community, inspire connection, and celebrate the spirit of East Dallas.
Our current board team includes: Andrea Lamarsaude, Jacque Forsher, Erica Pepper, Christophe Lamarsaude, Megan Smith, Natalie Lammers and Chelsea Callahan-Haag.
Our website is www.eastdallasartsdistrict.org.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The East Dallas Arts District’s path, like that of many grassroots organizations, has included its fair share of hurdles. Building something from the ground up requires vision, persistence, and a strong team effort. One of the biggest challenges has been resources — finding sustainable funding and sponsorships to support programming while keeping events accessible to the public.
Another challenge has been awareness. East Dallas has always been rich with creative talent, but it hasn’t historically had the same visibility as other arts districts in Dallas. Part of the journey has been about changing that perception, amplifying local voices, and helping artists feel seen in their own neighborhoods.
Despite these obstacles, the District has continued to grow because of the dedication of its artists, board members, sponsors, donors, volunteers and community partners. Every challenge has also been an opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and refine the mission of making art more visible, accessible, and celebrated in East Dallas.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
The East Dallas Arts District exists to celebrate and connect the creative heartbeat of East Dallas. At its core, the District is about making art visible, accessible, and part of everyday community life. We specialize in creating opportunities for artists to share their work and for neighbors to engage with it—whether through curated exhibitions, creative workshops, or large-scale community events like Art Walk EAST.
What sets us apart is our hyper-local focus. While Dallas has many wonderful arts institutions, the East Dallas Arts District is rooted in the neighborhoods and powered by the people who live and create here. We’re not just presenting art—we’re building relationships between artists, businesses, and the community in a way that feels personal, approachable, and inclusive.
We’re especially proud of initiatives like our Little Local Art Galleries, which bring small-scale, rotating exhibitions right into neighborhood gathering spots. Projects like this reflect our belief that art shouldn’t be reserved for galleries alone; it should be woven into the everyday spaces where people live, work, and connect.
For readers, the message is simple: the East Dallas Arts District is here to amplify creativity, support local artists, and create moments of connection that enrich our community. Whether you’re an artist, a neighbor, or a visitor, there’s a place for you in this growing cultural movement.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Resources Guiding the East Dallas Arts District
To stay connected, inspired, and effective—both as an organization and as a creative collective—the East Dallas Arts District team draws from thoughtfully chosen resources that reflect its mission and values.
What in East Dallas Is Going On?!
This local podcast, hosted by Rich and Camille, celebrates the heartbeat of East Dallas. With biweekly episodes, it spotlights culture-makers, artists, business owners, community leaders, and hidden neighborhood gems—sharing stories that amplify local voices and build community pride.
visiteastdallas.com
For the Love of Creatives Podcast
Hosted by “connections and community guys” Maddox and Dwight, this podcast fosters a spirit of collaboration and co‑elevation among creatives. Through heartfelt stories, live coaching, and guest conversations across disciplines—from art and design to culinary and dance—the show transforms “me” into “we,” helping listeners fuel their creative journey through community.
fortheloveofcreativespodcast.com
The East Dallas Arts District team also keeps an eye on standout books and blogs like The Creative Community Builder’s Handbook by Tom Borrup and The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker, which help deepen perspectives on community engagement and creative gathering. These resources reaffirm the District’s values of accessibility, connectedness, and local empowerment. Also recommended, Dacher Keltner’s book AWE: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life, which reminds us why art and shared experiences matter so deeply in our lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eastdallasartsdistrict.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eastdallasartsdistrict/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560367457086
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@EastDallasArtsDistrict
