Art Exhibits and Displays
From paintings and photos to sculptures and collectibles, the Fort Worth Library offers a number of quality exhibits throughout the year. The Library strives to present some of the best works of local artists, photographers and collectors, celebrating both the talent and diversity of our community.
For information on exhibiting, click here.
Current Exhibits
Central Library
The Swartz Brothers: Fort Worth’s First Family of Photographers
The Swartz brothers – David, John and Charles – were three Virginia farm boys who ventured west, arriving in Fort Worth in the mid-1880s. Over the next 30 years, they observed the city through the lens of a camera, snapping pictures of people, events and architecture – leaving a priceless legacy. They collectively produced thousands of photographs that were scattered to the four winds after their deaths. Join us in celebrating their legacy with a photo exhibition. The exhibit was assembled by historian Richard Selcer and genealogist Donna Donnell. On display in the West Wing of the Central Library from May 1 to 30, with a reception and presentation on May 11, from 2 - 5 p.m.
Society of Watercolor Artists
The Society of Watercolor Artists International Juried Exhibition features artists from all around the world! For more than 30 years, the Society of Watercolor Artists has been representing the finest in watercolor art in Tarrant County and is pleased to share their love and passion for watercolor with the Fort Worth community. On exhibit in the Gallery from April 7 to June 14, with a reception and awards presentation on Sunday, June 9, from 2 - 4 p.m.
Founders of the Fort: Major Ripley Allen Arnold and John V. McMillan
In 2014, Fort Worth will commemorate two seminal figures from the city’s past. McMillan Plaza, dedicated to businessman and philanthropist John V. McMillan, will sit at the north end of Taylor Street and feature a twice life-size bronze statue of Major Ripley Allen Arnold, founder of Fort Worth. The statue is being forged by internationally renowned sculptor Archie St. Clair. In anticipation of the plaza, this exhibit will showcase the legacy of Arnold through photographs, maps of the original fort, historical documents and journals and a bronze model of the statue. Special feature: "Oppressed Woman" -- period representative servant woman running up and down stairs carrying fasteners and other mounting hardware. On exhibit in the Display Case from May 2 to June 13.
City of Fort Worth Records
The most recent exhibit from the Library Archives showcases resources from the City of Fort Worth Records. The collection contains materials that document Fort Worth’s municipal history; Mayor and Council Proceedings; photographs; and citizens correspondence. In 1997, The Fort Worth Library was designated as the official repository for the historical records of the City of Fort Worth and will continue to receive historically significant records from all city departments as they become available. On display in the East Wing through July 31.
Updated 3 May 2013