Reliable 500X opened its doors in 1978 and is one of Dallas' oldest and most iconic art spaces. The original gallery was located in an old tire factory from around 1916 and was 3000 sq. feet of exhibit space. In the summer of 2020, 500X re-opened just off Fabrication Street at 516 West Dallas. It was created by two artists, Richard Childers (Dallas native) and Will Hipps (Massachusetts native who came to Dallas as a teacher). Both were tired of dealing with dealers but felt they needed a better kind of gallery. Their concept was that artists prescreen the artists, so work is exhibited without dealers and outside interference. This has been successful for over 40 years, as it allows local artists to showcase their works in a professional venue. Many alumni that exhibited at 500X have gone on to become famous artists in the Metroplex, such as Otis Jones and Nic Nicosia. 500X Gallery spots current members and guest artists. We also have a fresh exhibition every month. This is in line with our mission to constantly introduce other artists, both from Texas and internationally to the Dallas/ Fort Worth art scene. Every year 500X does an "Expo". This is an open show where you submit and it is juried by a well-known person in the North Texas art community. There is also an open call for artists to submit and be curated for a small fee. All is in keeping with our mission statement. In 2020, we included two juried LGBTQIA+ Shows and one juried BIPOC Show to highlight the often-overlooked artists of the DFW's arts community. The forty years celebration was a hit in 2018, with 500x getting an award to acknowledge their contribution as an alternative venue for the Dallas arts community. The 500X members are grateful to the Dallas community for their 40 years of support, concern, and energy.
User reviews suggest that the 500X Gallery is a space with great creative vibes, featuring local artists and free drinks at opening night. The venue's atmosphere reflects this, as described by several visitors as friendly and hospitable. Experienced a lovely time and an opportunity to see some amazing and captivating art pieces, the exhibition space can feel hot in summer. However, guests have experienced different art horizons as an artist; to participate in three other exhibitions. Yet, the odds of experiencing extremely hot or cold climates during summer or winter can be explained throughout the building. This is likely because of a dilapidated but antique structure.
