Cre8-0-6: LHUCA

In the heart of Lubbock, Texas, art encapsulates those passing by, whether it is through public art installations or perusing through local galleries and exhibitions. In the “Hub City,” talent takes form through a variety of mediums and is on display 24/7. From the awe-inspiring sunsets that serve as a muse for many local artists, to the culture within the melting pot that makes up the community, art fiends and those beginning to dabble in the deeper meaning each piece holds will find Lubbock to be an unexpected mecca of art and culture. 

Located at 511 Avenue K, LHUCA is a non-profit with a mission to cultivate and celebrate visual, performing and literary art by inspiring creativity and engaging with the community. Since its inception in 1997, LHUCA has been creating art in a variety of forms including repurposing the City of Lubbock’s vacant Fire Department Administration building. Paying homage to its founder, the center for the arts was named after Louise Hopkins

As a focal point and catalyst for Lubbock’s downtown revitalization efforts, LHUCA inspired the rebirth of a district that was once ground zero for a natural disaster. Through the many investments and efforts into the area, local entrepreneurs and visionaries breathed new life into the area. This art campus features four art galleries, the 159-seat Firehouse Theatre, Clay Studio, multipurpose Christine DeVitt Icehouse, Graffiti Education Building and an outdoor plaza for live music and outdoor events. Each LHUCA property has been renovated from what was once municipal buildings. 

Each first Friday of every month for the past 15 years, thousands take to the streets downtown in celebration of the local arts community. As the host and epicenter of the First Friday Arts Trail (FFAT), LHUCA, or the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts, shines a spotlight on the work of renowned artisans, musicians and dancers alike. With food trucks, live music and much more, the art district is the place to be every first Friday. 

A community partner, LHUCA collaborates with Lubbock artists, local school districts, Texas Tech University and many more organizations to provide art education to the citizens of Lubbock. From take-home kits for elementary students to classes offered at the Clay Studio and Graffiti Education Building, the center is fulfilling its mission to foster an environment that promotes the arts throughout Lubbock. For a full list of classes and educational experiences, visit their website. 

Along with FFAT, LHUCA hosts events throughout the year like the Flatland Film Festival, Artful Family Hours, the Affordable Art Sale and many more. Visit the events webpage for a full list of upcoming events and follow @lhucalulbbock on social media to ensure you don’t miss an event! 

This holiday season, give the gift of art! This is a thoughtful gesture that lets someone know a beautiful piece made you think of them. It could be a neat ceramic mug or a thought-provoking painting that deeply touches you. Whatever it is, Lubbock is not short of artisans looking to make your season a little brighter. Right now, LHUCA’s art market is available online as well as at the center, which is open Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.