Hunky's Cedar Springs Art Auction to Benefit Cedar Springs Merchant Association During Pride Week

Hunky's Cedar Springs will host an Art Show & Auction on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, during Pride in Dallas Week, featuring custom portraits by Texas artist Becca Waugh. The event benefits the Cedar Springs Merchant Association (CSMA), which plays a vital role in strengthening and celebrating the Oak Lawn community through initiatives like neighborhood beautification, safety programs, and small business advocacy.

The auction highlights whimsical, one-of-a-kind artworks inspired by classic Hunky's menu items, turning corn dogs, hot dogs, and burgers into cheeky portraits of local personalities. Featured subjects include CSMA board members such as Kevin Miller, Lee Daugherty, and Jason Preston, alongside community standouts like Leo Cusimano of Dallas Voice, Brad Pritchett of the Dallas Museum of Art, and fashion designer RAMRODD. The event underscores the importance of local arts and culture in fostering community unity and economic resilience.

Proceeds from the auction directly support CSMA's efforts, including signature events like the Cedar Springs Wine Walk and the Clover Classic Golf Tournament, which raise funds for neighborhood improvements. By bringing together artists, merchants, and residents, the event helps preserve the historic and cultural character of Cedar Springs while promoting inclusivity and growth. This initiative is crucial for maintaining the area's vibrancy as a welcoming destination for both residents and visitors.

The event includes a VIP reception from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. for portrait celebrities, sponsors, and invited guests, followed by a general reception open to the community from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. Guests can enjoy hors d'oeuvres, wine, frozen margaritas, daiquiris, and on-site art demonstrations, with a suggested $10 donation at the door supporting CSMA. Community partners such as Just Enough Wines, Planteray Rum, Suerte Tequila, US Foods, and Signature Baking Company have provided generous support, highlighting broader industry collaboration for local causes.

Hunky's, a cornerstone of Dallas' Oak Lawn neighborhood since 1984, continues its tradition of giving back through this event, emphasizing how small businesses can drive positive community impact. The art auction not only raises essential funds but also celebrates the intersection of art, food, and local identity, reinforcing the importance of cultural events in urban sustainability and economic development.