what is art crush?
Four nights. One creative heartbeat.
ART CRUSH is the Arts District’s signature celebration of local art, music, and culture. Designed with intention and shaped by community, each event transforms Downtown Winston-Salem into an open-air gallery of expression.
Beginning this year, ART CRUSH takes place four times annually: May, July, September, and November. This refined model allows us to focus on deeper themes, stronger storytelling, and a more vibrant experience for artists, attendees, and the businesses that make the district thrive.
OUR THEMES
Missed the Annual Meeting?
Catch up on what’s ahead for ART CRUSH and the Arts District.
for artists
Show your work. Share your voice.
ART CRUSH features 35 curated artist spots per event, along with 5 scholarship-funded spaces for emerging artists.
Artist participation is $25 per event. This structure allows us to invest directly in infrastructure, promotion, and scholarship opportunities while keeping access and equity at the center.
With our event-by-event model, artists can participate without long-term commitments. Apply when it works for you. Create when you’re ready.
Support & Get Involved
Help creativity thrive.
ART CRUSH is powered by volunteers, sponsors, and community partners who believe in the impact of the arts.
Sponsorship opportunities are available per event or across the full ART CRUSH season. Support directly funds artist scholarships, event production, and the continued vitality of the Arts District.
Prefer to be hands-on? Volunteer opportunities are open for each event.