There’s always something happening with
Plano Art Association
Check this page often to view upcoming meetings, exhibitions, workshops, and other creative opportunities. Click any event to learn more about how to get involved or attend.
Upcoming Events
“Embracing the Future” Exhibition
Embracing the Future is both a celebration and a beginning.
As the final exhibition in our gallery at The Shops at Willow Bend, this show honors the creativity, friendships, and community that have flourished within these walls. For years, this space has been more than a gallery—it has been a home where artists have grown, ideas have taken shape, and countless visitors have discovered the joy of art.
While we are grateful for every memory made here, this exhibition is not about looking back with sadness. It is about carrying forward the spirit of creativity, connection, and possibility that defines the Plano Art Association. As one chapter comes to a close, another awaits, filled with new opportunities to inspire, create, and share art with our community.
Join us as we celebrate where we've been, honor what we've built together, and embrace the future with hope, gratitude, and excitement for all that lies ahead.
MidSummer Makers' Market
Join us for one last summer at our gallery in Willow Bend Mall and immerse yourself in the inspiration, connection, and discovery before we close this chapter and begin the next.
Celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and community at the Midsummer Makers' Market, featuring handmade artwork, gifts, and artisan creations by members of the Plano Art Association. From original art and jewelry to cards, pottery, textiles, and one-of-a-kind treasures, each item is thoughtfully created by a local artist.
We invite you to shop local, support working artists, and help us celebrate the creative community that has called this space home.
Want to Participate in the Midsummer Makers’ Market? Click HERE
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest July 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
PAA Member Meeting
Join us for the Plano Art Association Member Meeting and connect with fellow artists while staying up to date on upcoming events and opportunities.
We’ll also feature our monthly Artist of the Month, celebrating the work of one of our talented members.
Come be part of the conversation—your involvement helps shape and strengthen our creative community.
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest August 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
125 Show 2026
Call Description
Exhibit Dates:
Exhibit: Thursday, August 6, 2026, through Sunday, August 30, 2026 at Ten 20 Art Gallery, 1001 14th Street, Suite #200, Plano, Texas 75074.
Awards reception: Saturday August 29, 2026, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm, at Ten 20 Art Gallery.
Categories for Awards: Select the category that best describes each of your entries using the pull-down on the entry form.
• 2D Artwork, Objective (Artwork with recognizable subject matter, regardless of degree of stylization)
• 2D Artwork, Non-Objective & Abstract (Artwork with a pure formal composition with no reference to the observable world plus work derived from observable sources but significantly transformed such that the subject may or may not be legible)
• 3D Artwork (Work with height, width, and depth that can be viewed and interpreted from all sides and angles. Includes wall-hung art 5 inches deep or more)
• 2D Artwork, Photography, Traditional & Digital (Original photographs of any age may be used to create new works of art within the years specified in this prospectus.)
A single 2D entry can be a Grouping of two (2) to four (4) 2D works of art that tell a story or convey a message through their interaction. The grouping must meet all of the requirements for a single-item 2D entry.
Entries:
Images — Minimum: 1, Maximum: 3
Total Entries — Minimum: 1, Maximum: 3
Awards:
HEB Best of Show: $1,000 and a certificate.
Each of four categories: First Place, $500 and certificate; Second Place, $300 and certificate; Third Place, $150 and certificate. Merit awards of cash or merchandise may be given at the discretion of the panel of jurors.
Plano Art Association (PAA) reserves the right to merge entries in a category receiving 10 or fewer invitations to the show into another category for the purpose of judging for awards.
PAA Member Meeting
Join us for the Plano Art Association Member Meeting and connect with fellow artists while staying up to date on upcoming events and opportunities.
We’ll also feature our monthly Artist of the Month, celebrating the work of one of our talented members.
Come be part of the conversation—your involvement helps shape and strengthen our creative community.
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest September 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
PAA Member Meeting
Join us for the Plano Art Association Member Meeting and connect with fellow artists while staying up to date on upcoming events and opportunities.
We’ll also feature our monthly Artist of the Month, celebrating the work of one of our talented members.
Come be part of the conversation—your involvement helps shape and strengthen our creative community.
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest October 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
PAA Member Meeting
Join us for the Plano Art Association Member Meeting and connect with fellow artists while staying up to date on upcoming events and opportunities.
We’ll also feature our monthly Artist of the Month, celebrating the work of one of our talented members.
Come be part of the conversation—your involvement helps shape and strengthen our creative community.
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest November 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest December 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
PAA Member Meeting
Join us for the Plano Art Association Member Meeting and connect with fellow artists while staying up to date on upcoming events and opportunities.
We’ll also feature our monthly Artist of the Month, celebrating the work of one of our talented members.
Come be part of the conversation—your involvement helps shape and strengthen our creative community.
"Explorations 2026" Reception
Join us on Saturday, June 21st from 4-6 pm at the Plano Art Association Gallery at The Shops at Willow Bend for the Explorations 2026 Reception!
Celebrate an exhibit filled with artistic exploration, new techniques, and creative risk-taking — and help us honor this year’s People’s Choice Award winners, announced during the reception.
This event is open to the public, so come enjoy the artwork, meet the artists, and share in an afternoon of creativity and community!
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest June 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
PAA Member Meeting
Join us for the Plano Art Association Member Meeting and connect with fellow artists while staying up to date on upcoming events and opportunities.
We’ll also feature our monthly Artist of the Month, celebrating the work of one of our talented members.
Come be part of the conversation—your involvement helps shape and strengthen our creative community.
"Awakening" Reception
Join us for the reception of “Awakening”, an exhibit celebrating renewal, growth, and fresh perspectives through art.
Enjoy light refreshments as you explore the collection, connect with fellow artists and art lovers, and experience the creativity of our community up close. During the evening, we’ll also announce the Peoples’ Choice Award winners—recognizing standout works from the exhibit.
Come celebrate art, inspiration, and the exciting energy of new beginnings with us.
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest May 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
PAA Member Meeting
Join us for the Plano Art Association Member Meeting and connect with fellow artists while staying up to date on upcoming events and opportunities.
We’re excited to welcome Suzy Jones, Executive Director of ArtCentre of Plano, as our guest speaker. We’ll also feature our monthly Artist of the Month, celebrating the work of of our talented members.
Come be part of the conversation—your involvement helps shape and strengthen our creative community.
“Awakening” Exhibition
“It is possible to experience an awakening in this life through realizing just how precious each moment, each mental process, and each breath truly is”. - Christy Turlington
Experience Awakening, a dynamic new exhibition at the Plano Art Association Gallery exploring themes of growth, renewal, and creative evolution. This collaborative showcase highlights a range of artistic styles and perspectives from local artists, making it a must-see for anyone passionate about the arts.
Odyssey: Walk. Ride. Discover. Tour & Pop-Up Event
At the conclusion of Plano Arts Week, Collaborative Arts of Plano’s visual arts members will present an exciting, immersive arts experience in the Downtown Plano Arts District.
The day will feature a tented pop-up art exhibit and sale presented by the Plano Art Association, located in the parking lot across from the DART station on 15th Place. From this central hub, ticketed guided “discovery tours” will depart, leading participants to a variety of engaging art venues throughout Downtown Plano. Tour stops will include artist studios, galleries, museums, public art installations, and other creative landmarks.
Within the heart of the district, a guided walking tour will highlight key points of interest and provide an up-close look at the area’s vibrant arts scene.
DART TO ART!! Following the walking portion, participants will board a special DART bus to continue the experience, traveling to additional destinations on the outer edges of the Arts District.
“eARThly Perspectives” Exhibition
ART FROM THIS EARTH BUT OUT OF THIS WORLD
Inspired by the world around us—with a twist—this collection pushes nature, color, and form into something a little more otherworldly.
Experience “eARThly Perspectives” at the Ten20 Gallery in Downtown Plano!
Running From March 30th - April 26th, 2026.
Member Meeting: March 2026
Join us March 24th for our member meeting, it will take place at Ten20 Gallery in downtown Plano. 1001 14th Street #200Plano, TX, 75074. This meeting is held the 4th Tuesday of every month.
March meeting highlights: Arts Week Plano, Changes to PAA bylaws, Artist of the Month.
Our demo artist this month is Marian Hirsch, discussing pastels.
Light snacks and refreshments are provided.
“Made in Plano” Exhibition
All art, all sizes!
Call for entry: https://paa33.wildapricot.org/event-6563643
Deadline March 11th
Love & Kindness: Artist's Reception and Awards Presentation
The public is invited to PAA Gallery to attend the Artist’s reception and Awards presentation to close out this exhibit. Refreshments will be served. This event is free to attend.
Friday Night Lights: March 13th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest March 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
Friday Night Lights: March 6th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
Friday Night Lights February 27th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
Member Meeting: February 2026
Join us February 24th for our membership meeting. This month it will take place at Ten20 Gallery in downtown Plano. 1001 14th Street #200Plano, TX, 75074
Light snacks and refreshments are provided.
Cosmic Portals: Solo Art Exhibit Reception
Cosmic Portals by Dr. Tricia Seymour-Barrier
Enjoy intuitive abstract art at the reception on Friday, February 20, 2026, 7 PM to 9 PM. This exhibition takes place at thegallery8680.
8680 Main Street Suite E1, Frisco, TX, 75033
Friday Night Lights February 20th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
Friday Night Lights February 13th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
"Love and Kindness" Exhibition
A Gesture, A Memory, A Poem, Celebrating Love & Friendship
Inspiring Kindness in the Storytelling of Art
Event Page: https://paa33.wildapricot.org/event-6493776
Call to entry: https://paa33.wildapricot.org/event-6493776/Registration
Deadline February 4th 11:59 PM
Reception March 15: 2-4 pm
Downtown Plano Art & Culture Quest Feb 2026
Come on over to McCall Plaza each 1st Saturday to experience the rich culture offered by the Downtown Plano Art District. This free event is a perfect opportunity to explore Plano from a fresh perspective. There is plenty of parking downtown and the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) stops at the Downtown Plano station, just steps away from McCall Plaza.
G.T. Solanki: Solo Art Exhibit Reception
You are cordially invited to art exhibition reception featuring original artwork by G.T. Solanki.
“Please join us as we celebrate with light refreshments. Your presence will add great joy and meaning to this special occasion.” - G.T. Solanki
From 10 AM to 11 AM, Saturday, February 7th, 2026, at 1330 Rosemeade Pkwy, Carrolton, TX.
The exhibition will remain on view through February 25th, and subsequently relocated to Crosby Recreation Center for the month of March. (1610 E. Crosby Rd. Carrollton, Tx)
Friday Night Lights February 6th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
Friday Night Lights January 30th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
Member Meeting: January 2026
Join us January 27th for our first member meeting of the year.
Topics:
2025 in Review
What will 2026 bring?
Nominating Committee for May Executive Board Elections
Artist of the Month
This meeting takes place in person and online. Members, check your emails for the Zoom link.
Light snacks and refreshments are provided.
“125 Show 2026: Revisited” Artist's Reception and Awards Presentation
The public is invited to PAA Gallery to attend the Artist’s reception and Awards presentation to close out this exhibit.
Friday Night Lights January 16th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
This Week:
This week our model will be Shaya. She is a tall blonde, experienced model with lots of style. She holds a pose flawlessly. Don't miss it!!!!
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
Friday Night Lights January 9th
Plano Art Association’s Friday Night Lights and Shadows is a weekly gathering of artists who get together to paint and draw from a live model.
This Week:
This week our model will be DThomas. He will be wearing a Civil War era costume...hat, boots, the works. This will be an exciting opportunity to paint or draw a very unique subject. Don't miss it!!!!
Attendance Fee (Cash Only):
General - $20
Student - $10
Reservations are suggested, reserve your spot via MeetUp
Click this link for more information: https://www.planoartassociation.org/friday-night-lights-shadows
