The city of Denton has launched the Denton Halloween Artist Mentorship Program (DHAMP) in partnership with local nonprofit Paper Chair Studios. The initiative aims to support the community’s designation as the Halloween Capital of Texas by connecting emerging artists with experienced professionals to create seasonal displays for downtown businesses.
Co-founders Delaney Smith and Joshua Bryant, both University of North Texas alumni, developed the program to address a perceived lack of structural support for local creatives. The project pairs mentees with mentors to collaborate on Halloween-themed installations at participating establishments.
Five businesses agreed to participate in the inaugural year: Barnhart’s Barbershop, Miss Angeline’s, The Brown Thumb, Harvest House, and Bearded Monk. These locations are situated near Denton’s downtown Square.
At Barnhart’s Barbershop, located at 110 W. Oak St., mentor Dan Black and mentee Sid Dominguez are creating an installation titled “Família.” Owner Gary Barnhart, who has a personal connection to Smith, provided the space for the artists. The piece incorporates Day of the Dead imagery, depicting Barnhart’s family as sugar skulls to reflect Dominguez’s Latin heritage.
To involve residents, a community paint event was held at Trash Alley Studios, located behind Barnhart’s Barbershop at 114 W. Pecan St., on Sept. 5. Attendees painted the background for the installation before the artists added detailed elements.
