“My job is to empower artists to take leadership in our community.”

Arts lead.

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The Duncanville Forum for Arts Leadership is a civic initiative that empowers artists to lead in shaping the future of our community. We believe artists have a vital role in public life—not just as creators, but as leaders, problem-solvers, entrepreneurs, and decision-makers.

Our work connects the arts to public policy, economic development, and civic engagement. Through workshops, leadership labs, and public conversations, we help artists develop the knowledge, skills, and relationships needed to take on leadership roles in Duncanville.

We’re building a stronger city by giving artists a seat at the table—where public decisions are made and futures are shaped. This is how we turn creative work into civic progress.

The Duncanville Forum:

• Builds civic fluency and leadership among artists, residents, and cultural advocates

• Informs local policy through dialogue, public input, and artist-led research

• Activates underused spaces with temporary, community-based arts projects

• Expands public access to cultural experiences and civic processes

• Strengthens cross-sector networks between government, education, business, and the arts

• Equips artists with the skills and visibility to lead community change

• Supports economic development through place-based creative initiatives