Inside Dallas’s Black Arts Scene: An Interview with Darryl Ratcliff
Welcome to Deep in the Heart of Dallas, a new series spotlighting the vibrant Dallas Black community. In this episode, we sit down with local creative and media veteran Darryl Ratcliff to explore his favorite city spots, culinary discoveries, and the inspiration behind his work.
Darryl Ratcliff, a Dallas native raised in DeSoto, has made his mark across poetry, journalism, and entrepreneurship. He writes art criticism for the Dallas Morning News, co‑founded Ash Studios, and recently launched Gossypion Investments—a firm that spans artist management, cultural consulting, real estate development, and more.
Tell us about your journey into the arts.
I’ve been fortunate to have early access to the arts, something not everyone enjoys. At 14 I wrote my first art piece for a publication; now I cover art for the DMN. Securing that role was a pivotal moment that allowed me to treat art writing with the seriousness it deserves. Poetry has been my first love—since first grade—and it continues to shape my creative perspective.
What makes Dallas home?
It’s the people. There’s a unique sense of belonging when you visit neighborhood spots and strangers greet you by name, even after years apart. Dallas’s skyline and cultural fabric create memories that define who we are on our journey.
Describe your perfect day in Dallas.
On a sunny Saturday I start with brunch at Ten Bells, drawn to their outdoor patio and the standout crab cake Benedict. Afterward I head to art venues such as South Dallas Cultural Center, Oak Cliff Cultural Center, Conduit Gallery, Galleri Urbane, and Erin Cluley. At night I enjoy live music—perhaps Dezi 5 at The Free Man in Deep Ellum—followed by a nightcap at Mike’s Gemini.
What are your favorite places to eat in Dallas?
Pepe and Mito’s in Deep Ellum has been a family‑owned staple for decades; the chipotle chicken enchiladas and street tacos are must‑tries. Bangkok Inn in East Dallas, recently taken over by my friend Daisy, is another institution that exemplifies generational culinary continuity.
Where can we find you on a weekend afternoon?
I’m usually in a gallery or attending an event—pop‑up markets, trunk shows, or a casual stroll at the Dallas Farmer’s Market.
Tell us about a neighborhood you love.
Vickery Meadow is a gem I lived in for a few years. It hosts the largest concentration of immigrants and refugees in Dallas, representing over 100 countries. The area’s cultural diversity—languages, attire, vibes—is truly unique and often under‑recognized.
What is your favorite Dallas memory?
Winning the Mavericks championship was unforgettable, but my favorite moment was in 2015 when Travis Scott dropped “Antidote” in our art studio—an electrifying night that blended art, music, and community.
What are you looking forward to in 2021?
I’m excited to reconnect with community life and to support the burgeoning Black visual arts scene in Dallas. The city is home to a surge of talented Black artists gaining national acclaim, positioning Dallas as a potential new hub for Black art.
To learn more about Darryl, Gossypion, and his Dallas projects, follow him on Instagram: @thekingfish08.
