The Collective Impact Behind Britt Design Group’s Annual Art Show
Each year, the Austin design studio becomes a vibrant gallery space that supports local artists and nonprofit organizations
What originated as a simple idea from President and Managing Principal Designer Laura Britt has evolved into one of the firm’s most anticipated annual traditions: “Evening of Art,” a skillfully curated art show that creates dynamic gallery walls in almost every corner of their workspace. Equal parts inspiration, gathering and philanthropic platform, the exhibition expresses the firm’s belief that art is essential to great design and giving a space its soul.
“We always thought it would be nice to support artists and have beautiful art to show clients,” Britt says. “It also creates a beautiful backdrop for the design team,” she adds, regarding the creative inspiration that comes from having these works surround the studio.
Over time, the show has grown in scope. Marketing Manager Susie Roselle and Office Operations Manager and Logistics Coordinator Olivia Gonzales now oversee much of the curation and planning, shaping each year’s exhibition with intention. “It just became this thing that everybody looked forward to,” Britt says.
A living gallery
Unlike a traditional gallery, the studio’s art is displayed in an active workspace. Clients encounter works during meetings, often discovering new artists or pieces unexpectedly. Such accessibility is central to the experience.
While the show’s energy feels organic, the role of art in Britt Design Group’s projects is anything but an afterthought. “We talk about art very early,” Britt explains, regarding the role art plays in her planning with both residential and commercial clients. For clients who already have collections, the team works to incorporate them carefully. For others, especially those building second or third homes, the process often starts from scratch.
“We want it to feel collected over time,” Britt says, “but also complete enough to enjoy when the project finishes.”
The annual art show operates similarly in a curatorial approach. Rather than focusing on a rigid theme, the team gravitates toward a loose throughline. For example, this year the show centered around a Texas sensibility of big skies and open landscapes. The mix of artists spans mediums, scale and price points, from emerging creatives to established names. Artists are discovered through a combination of long-standing relationships, Instagram deep dives, studio visits and open submissions through the firm’s website.
“Working closely with the artists each year is definitely my favorite part of helping produce the event, especially hearing the stories and inspiration behind their work,” Gonzales shares. “I love being involved in curating the pieces and putting together the ‘puzzle’ of the show. Seeing it all come together on opening night is truly fulfilling.”
Giving back through art
As the art show has grown, so has its impact. Each year, Britt Design Group selects a nonprofit partner to receive 10% of art proceeds, using the event to raise awareness and support. The team researches community needs and consults philanthropic experts to identify organizations in line with current priorities. This past year, they supported Austin PBS, bringing attention to the importance of accessible, accurate journalism and its contribution to education, the arts, culture, news and public affairs.
“It felt like a meaningful way to contribute,” Britt says. “We all have a responsibility to make an impact where we can.” She adds, “As the show’s gotten bigger and more successful, we feel really proud that we can give back more to the community.”
The philanthropic layer benefits the artists as well. “It makes it bigger than just selling work,” Roselle adds. “And I think it really gets the artists more excited about participating, too.”
The annual “Evening of Art” show aims to foster engagement and conversation between longtime clients, fellow designers and first-time visitors. “We want people to feel really welcomed,” Britt says. “We want it to be a safe place for people to come and feel a sense of community and belonging,” she continues. “It’s just that feeling of connection — whether that’s between the artists and the public or the artists and each other — it’s a really nice way for them to grow their circle.”
Britt Design Group’s art exhibition demonstrates that art does more than adorn a room. It sparks meaningful interaction and enriches community ties.
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