DALLAS, Texas (August 31, 2026) – Each year, The Great Create transforms the Nasher Sculpture Center’s garden into the colorful, activity-filled space, commissioning a group of artists to create interactive stations for children and families. Proceeds from the ticketed fundraiser directly benefit the center's education programs which impact tens of thousands of children, students, and families each year. This year’s event is chaired by Tori and Ross Mulford and will take place on October 25 from 1:30-4:00 p.m. with a special VIP hour beginning at 12:30 p.m.
The Great Create provides the opportunity for children to create alongside working artists who work with the Nasher team to bring new and innovative activations each year. “Young people get the chance to explore new materials, techniques, and ideas they might not otherwise experience,” says Director of Learning and Engagement Anna Smith. “It's a special day where kids build confidence and create meaningful connections through art, all while supporting creative learning for our entire community. Every ticket helps expand access to high-quality arts education at the Nasher.”
For The Great Create 2026, the Nasher has commissioned artists Brenda Bogart and Stephanie Stephenson, MacKenzie Brittingham, Xxavier Edward Carter, Niki Dionne, Flynn Flanagan, Jessica Hilvitz, Matt Kleberg, Virginia L. Montgomery (VLM) and Britt Moseley, Kevin Todora, Liz Trosper, and Lilly Watson. The artist stations collectively appeal to a wide range of ages and interests, encompassing processes such as collage, color blocking, felting, beading, papier mâché, marbling, and paper sculptures. The garden’s art activities are accompanied by lounge seating, a dance floor, and photo experience with Picture This Green Screen. This year, Audrey Schott of Backyard Music will play throughout the event, strumming sing and dance-a-long favorites, with additional live music performed by students of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts.
Food and beverage vendors include Be Kinder Coffee and Melt Ice Cream, with additional food and drink stations catered by Wolfgang Puck Catering, who provide fun spins on kid-friendly favorites and a full bar for parents. This year, a rainbow-inspired menu will be available, infusing a spectrum of playful colors into items such as Shaky Bag Donuts, Color Wheel Quesadillas, and Build-Your-Own Dirty Soda Bar.
“The Great Create is an exceptional fundraiser that’s become a family tradition,” says The Great Create 2026 chair Tori Mulford. “It’s an easy way for people to get involved in the arts community and meet producing artists.”