 Surls, then Professor of Art, created an exhibition area within Lawndale's of space; the exhibitions there soon expanded to include shows by other artists of the community.Lawndale Art Center became independent with non-profit status in 1989, and since 1992 has been located in a 1930s Art Deco building designed by Joseph Finger within Houston’s Museum District.The galleries exhibit close to 500 artists annually in changing exhibitions.