Historic Fort Worth, Inc. invites the community to experience the 23rd annual Preservation is the Art of the City, a three-day art show and sale featuring exceptional artwork by talented Fort Worth-area artists. The event will be held September 3–5, 2026, at the Amon Carter Center at Lena Pope, 3200 Sanguinet Street, Fort Worth.
More than an art show, Preservation is the Art of the City® is Historic Fort Worth’s premier annual fundraiser. Proceeds from the event support Historic Fort Worth’s mission to preserve Fort Worth’s distinct historic identity through stewardship, education, and leadership.
The exhibition showcases original artwork in a variety of media from many of the area’s most accomplished artists, several of whom have work represented in galleries and private collections throughout Fort Worth and beyond. Guests will have the opportunity to meet local artists, purchase original artwork, and support the creative community while helping preserve the historic places that define Fort Worth.
This year’s Honorary Chairman is Dr. Asad Dean, a beloved physician, and a graduate of Fort Worth Country Day, The University of Texas at Arlington, and UT Southwestern Medical School. Dr. Dean, an oncologist, fell in love with art history when he took a course at Fort Worth Country Day. He credits art history for opening the door to his appreciation of both art and fashion.
This year’s Featured Artist is Thomas Helmick, whose artwork inspired the event’s promotional design and serves as the visual backdrop for this year’s exhibition.
The event opens with Party with the Artists on Thursday, September 3, an evening celebration featuring the presentation of artist awards, the opportunity to meet participating artists, and the first opportunity to purchase artwork before the exhibition opens to the public.
The exhibition continues:
• Friday, September 4: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Admission is Free.
• Saturday, September 5: Noon – 9:00 p.m. Admission is Free.
Families are also invited to participate in City Build, a free, hands-on children’s architecture program on Saturday, September 5, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. Young builders will use boxes, paper, crayons, glue, and other creative materials to design buildings that become part of a collaborative cardboard city complete with roads and the Trinity River. The program encourages creativity while introducing children to architecture, design, and the importance of community spaces.
For 23 years, Preservation is the Art of the City has celebrated the remarkable talent of local artists while raising critical funds to support Historic Fort Worth’s preservation programs. Every artwork purchased helps ensure that Fort Worth’s historic places and stories continue to be protected for future generations.
Community Support
Preservation is the Art of the City is made possible through the generous support of community partners who share Historic Fort Worth’s commitment to celebrating local creativity and preserving Fort Worth’s historic identity. Central Market, the event’s Gallery sponsor, along with Bennett Partners, FirstBank Southwest, Public Market, and Mary Alice Denmon Smith, provide vital support that helps make this annual celebration of art and preservation possible.
Historic Fort Worth, Inc. is grateful to these sponsors for their commitment to supporting local artists and strengthening preservation efforts throughout Fort Worth.
Admission to the art show on Friday and Saturday is free. Reservations are required for the Party with the Artists. To purchase reservations visit https://bit.ly/2026PAC_Tickets
For more event information, party reservations, sponsorship opportunities, or to learn more about Historic Fort Worth, visit historicfortworth.org or call 817-336-2344 ext 107.
Event at a Glance
Preservation is the Art of the City
September 3–5, 2026
Amon Carter Center at Lena Pope
3200 Sanguinet Street
Fort Worth, Texas
Party with the Artists
Recognition of Dr. Asad Dean, Honorary Chairman
Thursday, September 3
Awards Presentation: 5:30 p.m.
Art Purchase Begins: 6:30 p.m.
Public Exhibition
Friday, September 4: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Saturday, September 5: Noon–9:00 p.m.
City Build (Free Family Activity)
Saturday, September 5
2:00–4:00 p.m.
About Historic Fort Worth, Inc.
Established in 1969, Historic Fort Worth, Inc. is a nonprofit 501©(3) organization dedicated to preserving Fort Worth’s unique historic identity through stewardship, education, and leadership. The organization stewards the 1899 Ball-Eddleman-McFarland House, Fort Worth’s second landmark. It offers educational programs, advocacy initiatives, and community events that promote appreciation for the city’s architectural and cultural heritage.
