The Garland Cultural Arts Commission, Inc. presented the Business for the Arts Award to Robert Alan Smith at the Garland Chamber of Commerce Banquet Friday, Jan. 24.
In 2019, Smith invested and promoted public art in Garland by commissioning numerous murals and sculptures for display in downtown Garland. He also created an open art space (known as 506 Art) in the downtown Garland Square. 506 Art has been integral in multiple public art projects, combining city resources, local artists and citizen participation in the creation of art.
For 30 years, Smith has been a major player as a property owner, specializing in downtown Garland redevelopment and revitalization. He has served as president of the Garland Downtown Business Association and is a member of the board of directors for the Texas Downtown Association. He also serves on the Garland Chamber Board. His favorite mantra is “You are known by the downtown you keep!”
Photo: Robert Alan Smith and Patty Granville, Director of Cultural Arts
Information and photo provided by city of Garland.