SPOTLIGHT

Jennifer Unger Executive Director at TRAHC

321 West 4th Street

Texarkana, Texas 75501

In your words, what is TRAHC and what is its mission?

TRAHC’s mission is, “Growing people and community through the arts.” At TRAHC, we believe that the arts are for everyone! As a regional arts council, TRAHC plays a vital role in the overall cultural, social, and economic development of our community. We respond to the unique cultural and educational needs of our region.

What does TRAHC offer the community? How have you seen change in the community since its opening?

TRAHC offers a variety of programs to meet the evolving cultural and educational needs of the community. Our education programs work with our area schools to develop residencies and performances that align with curriculum. Performances are offered at the historic Perot Theatre as well as the Regional Arts Center. Community arts classes in a variety of art mediums are available for all ages. Visual art exhibitions at the Regional Arts Center highlight not only regional artists but national and international artists and are always free to the public.

TRAHC has always had a strong education program, and in the past few years, it has expanded its reach across the nation, with teaching artists providing workshops to teachers and students.

What is the historical significance of having TRAHC in the former federal courthouse?

Housed in the former 1909 U.S. federal courthouse, TRAHC is proud to preserve and protect the beautiful Regional Arts Center. Not only do we showcase the beauty of the building through our programs, but the RAC is available for rental for weddings and special events.

What are the benefits of the location being downtown?

Downtown is vibrant and growing. The Texarkana Arts & Historic District’s recent economic impact study found that arts and culture in Texarkana had a $9.1 million economic impact. TRAHC is a vibrant part of the synergy of our growing downtown.

What would a visitor to downtown Txk experience as they go through the Regional Arts Center?

The Regional Arts Center is an architectural work of art with beautiful ornamentation and design. Housed within the RAC are galleries displaying regional and national artists. The For Arts’ Sake Gift Shop offers a variety of unique cards, gifts, and art.

What are your future plans for TRAHC and the community?

TRAHC is being gifted the former downtown Offenhauser offices at 518 Pine Street. We are renovating the space to serve as a community arts space. The classes we currently hold—such as mosaics, pottery, painting, and camps for kids—will have studio space distinctly designed for each class. We will also expand our offerings to include technology, design, and other hands-on experiences for all ages.

Is there anything else you would like the public to know about TRAHC that I haven’t asked?

Along with participating in classes and performances, the community can be involved with TRAHC through becoming a volunteer or joining as a member of TRAHC. Supporting the arts through your generous gifts keeps the arts alive and vibrant in our region.