A Perfect Day in Dallas: The Story of Artist Desmond Blair
When you think of your ideal day, what does it look like? Delicious food? Quality moments with friends? We asked Desmond Blair, an artist and founder of 'Art Without Obstacles', about his perfect day in Dallas. Born with a limb difference, Desmond calls Dallas home and uses his art to share a message that being different is not the same as being disabled.
Morning: I’d start at Maraca’s Cocina Mexicana in Deep Ellum for breakfast – migas or breakfast tacos – then head to Asel Art Supply in Uptown for brushes and paint, and Michael’s for canvases. A friend pointed me to Rec Shop in East Dallas; it’s a skateboard shop that also stocks spray paint, which is a cool resource for artists.
Afternoon: I visit local shows and exhibitions. Recently I toured the Erin Cluley Gallery in the Design District, where Riley Holloway’s show was on display, and the South Dallas Cultural Center, a community hub that connects Dallas creatives. I finish the afternoon with a bite at Ascension or the Southern Gourmet Kitchen food truck at Truck Yard Dallas.
Evening: I gravitate toward places with a view. In Deep Ellum I’ll likely stop at Vidorra for steak or chicken tacos, then head to The Green Room or Stirr, both with rooftop seating and creative drinks – Stirr even offers a mac‑and‑cheese dish topped with crumbled Doritos. I cap the night on the South Side with a rooftop view on Lamar.
2020 and COVID: The pandemic forced a pause in our routine. For me, that slowdown was essential. “It gave me a reason to stop,” I said. “With my mom’s passing and everything shutting down, I had more time to process and reflect. I could step back from my usual pace and think about my future as an artist.” I spent that time revisiting the past decade of my work, learning new skills, and considering how my mom’s battle with ALS, which did not halt her, could inspire me to break free from my own constraints.
You can explore Desmond’s journey and artwork on his website, and follow his updates on Instagram.
Header photo courtesy of Bruce August Jr.
