Documentary Arts

Creating and preserving new perspectives on the arts, culture, and history since 1985. Founded in 1985 by Alan Govenar to present new perspectives on historical issues and diverse cultures, Documentary Arts, Inc. is a non-profit organization based in Dallas, Texas and New York City. Between 1992 and 2001, Documentary Arts operated the 5501 Columbia Art Center with Contemporary Culture, a non-profit organization founded by Kaleta Doolin. Still located in East Dallas, the main office of Documentary Arts is still based at 5501 Columbia Avenue (map) in a completely renovated landmark building, formerly Fire Station No. 16, which received a 1993 American Institute of Architects Citation Award for its adaptation to a community service facility. Over the years, Documentary Arts and Contemporary Culture, organized numerous exhibitions. installations, and public programs, and both organizations continue to have an active role in the arts. In 1995, Alan Govenar and Kaleta Doolin founded the Texas African American Photography Archive, located directly across the street from the firehouse. In addition, Documentary Arts and Contemporary Culture operate a state of the art audio/video editing facility.