From its architecture and parks to artistic performances and events, HALL Group is looking for photographers that can capture the essence of the Dallas Arts District.

The Dallas-based company launched the new photography fundraiser, “Through the Lens: Dallas Arts District,” Thursday in an effort to ensure funding for the growth of the city’s creative arts hub. All proceeds will go to the Dallas Arts District Foundation, which offers grants to local, underserved arts organizations. 

“Private investment in the arts is more important now than ever, and we are optimistic that the proceeds from the project will bring new and varied programming to the community and will support the endeavors of our existing arts venues,” said Craig Hall, chairman and founder of HALL Group.

[Photo courtesy of HALL Group]

Photographers of all skill levels can submit original photos taken within the 20 square blocks of the Dallas Arts District to display in a juried exhibition. From Klyde Warren Park to the AT&T Performing Arts Center, photos can depict any performance, activity, or interaction that takes place in the area.

Chosen entries will be hardbound into a coffee table book and considered for display in the HALL Arts Hotel, set to open in 2019. Photographers can submit up to eight images that will be accepted through April, 30 2018. 

Craig Hall, right, with British artist Richard Long, who created “Dallas Rag” in the lobby of KPMG Plaza. in the Arts District. [Photo Courtesy of Hall Group]

Hall is known for his dedication to the arts. Earlier this year, he was honored with the Great Contributor to Art Award from the Dallas Arboretum Artscape Reimagined 2017 for his work incorporating public art in his developments.  

He hopes to raise enough through book sales to support smaller arts organizations.

“The intent is to help the more difficult-to-fund organizations that really need the help,” Hall told The Dallas Morning News.

The exhibition will be judged by an array of elite Dallasites including Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings; Virginia Shore, Shore Art Advisory curator; Agustin Arteaga, director of the Dallas Museum of Art; Sam Holland, dean of the Southern Methodist University Meadows School of the Arts; and Jeremy Strick, director of the Nasher Sculpture Center. 

Strick believes this initiative can help the Dallas Arts District Foundation expand its funding to arts organizations. 

“The grants that the foundation awards are aimed at increasing the diversity and dynamism of the neighborhood’s programs, and we are grateful to HALL Group for investing in the cultural growth of our celebrated arts community,” Strick said in a release.

There is no fee to enter photos. For more information, visit the contest website.