Since 2009, Art Spark Texas has proudly presented the Distinguished Artist Veterans Exhibit, an annual, statewide celebration of veteran creativity, storytelling, and artistic practice across Texas. Now in its 17th year in 2026, the exhibit continues to honor the voices of veteran artists at every stage of their creative journey, across all mediums and disciplines.
Over nearly two decades, the exhibit has traveled to communities across Texas, from Austin to San Antonio, Arlington to Wichita Falls, Corpus Christi, El Paso and more, bringing veteran art directly into local cultural spaces and strengthening connections between artists, audiences, and communities statewide. Each year, the exhibit features a juried selection of work by Texas veterans whose practices span visual art, mixed media, photography, and beyond, reflecting the depth and diversity of lived military and post-service experience.
The exhibit is more than a gallery presentation. It is a gathering point for dialogue, creativity, community and recognition. Through exhibitions, companion programming, and community engagement, veteran artists are supported in sharing their stories and expanding their creative voices beyond service.
The 17th Annual Distinguished Artist Veterans Exhibit 2026
Venue: Houston Central Public Library
500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002
Installation: October 30th, 2026
On View: November 1, 2026 - January 18, 2026
Opening Reception: November 7th, 2026 (Time TBA)
Eligibility: Texas-based active-duty and veteran artists, Houston-based preferred.
*Preference for Houston-area veterans but open to all Texas based veteran artists.
Celebrating veteran creativity in any medium, any subject matter or career stage. The DAVE highlights veteran artists whose creative work reflects sustained inquiry, technical rigor, and personal evolution beyond military service.
This exhibition centers artistic practice as an ongoing commitment, shaped by experience, but not defined by it.
*Theme and call for art coming soon.