Overview:
Erik Grayson, a South Dallas native, has carved out a niche as a serial entrepreneur, launching several ventures that not only reflect his passions but also uplift those in his community. His endeavors, most notably the Art Overdose and the beloved Fivee Bistro and Bar, are testaments to his commitment to culture, community, and creativity. Grayson's journey shows that leading with service and putting community first can make anything possible. Through his bold ventures, he's reshaping South Dallas and proving that collective support creates extraordinary change.
In the vibrant heart of South Dallas, where community ties run deep and creativity flourishes, Erik Grayson stands as a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit. Born and raised in Oak Cliff, Grayson has carved out a niche as a serial entrepreneur, launching several ventures that not only reflect his passions but also uplift those in his community . His endeavors—most notably the Art Overdose and the beloved Fivee Bistro and Bar—are testaments to his commitment to culture, community, and creativity.
The Genesis of an Entrepreneur
Grayson’s’s entrepreneurial journey took shape during a Super Bowl weekend several years ago. He recalls, “I was invited to a loft event called The Glass, and everything just clicked. I always talked about throwing parties, and when a friend suggested putting my money where my mouth is, I jumped at the chance.” Teaming up with friends Broderick and Jonathan, Grayson organized an event that packed the loft in under two weeks. “That was the moment I realized I could turn my passion into something tangible,” he reflects.
His experience in event planning would lay the groundwork for one of his most significant projects, Art Overdose. Grayson, inspired by travels to various cities and a lack of representation for local artists, envisioned a platform where creativity could thrive without financial barriers. “I wanted to create something that was for us and by us,” he asserts.
Art Overdose: A Cultural Revolution
Launched in March 2019, Art Overdose has rapidly transformed into one of Dallas’s most anticipated cultural events, attracting thousands of attendees each year. Grayson partnered with fellow creatives Lauren McMillan, Rufus Williams, and Marcus Chappell to bring this vision to life. “We wanted to create a space where artists could showcase their talent without the burden of fees,” Grayson explains. “It’s about giving back to the community and celebrating those who often go unnoticed.”
The festival’s growth has been remarkable, starting with a few hundred attendees and expanding to over 2,000 participants. “We are proud to say we’ve built Dallas’s first grassroots festival with no major sponsors,” Grayson shares. “It’s a place where everyone is welcome, and there’s no gatekeeping. We’re here to celebrate our culture.”
Art Overdose not only showcases local artists but also fosters a sense of unity within the community. “When you see people from all walks of life coming together for art, it’s powerful,” he says. “It shows that we can create something beautiful when we collaborate and support one another.”
The Fivee Bistro and Bar: A Culinary Heartbeat
In addition to his work in the arts, Grayson is the proud owner of Fivee Bistro and Bar, a restaurant that embodies the spirit of South Dallas. With partners Kent Williams, Justin Williams, and Fayth Jefferson, Fivee has become a culinary gem in Dallas. “What sets the Fivee apart is the atmosphere. It’s a place where you can come as you are, whether you’re here for brunch, a day party, or just to relax with friends,” Grayson explains.
However, the path to success in the restaurant industry is fraught with challenges. Recently, The Fivee faced a setback following a failedhealth inspection. Grayson addresses this misstep head-on: “When you run a restaurant, you face a myriad of challenges, from supply chain issues to staffing. But that health inspection taught us a valuable lesson about diligence and accountability.”
He shares how the team responded: “We created checklists and implemented policies and procedures to ensure we never get caught slipping again. It’s about leading by example and holding ourselves to the highest standards. If I have to micromanage at times, I will, because consistency is key.”
Grayson puts customer service at the forefront of his business. “This isn’t a business you can run from a distance,” he explains. “You have to be present and engaged, ensuring that everyone on your team is trained and delivering the best experience possible.”
Community Initiatives: The Heart of the Matter
Grayson’s dedication to community involvement goes beyond his business ventures. He often speaks about the importance of giving back, particularly during challenging times. “The restaurant industry is facing significant challenges right now, and it’s up to us to support one another,” he says. “We need to find creative solutions and share resources.”
Grayson has also partnered with a restaurant owners basketball league that raises money for underprivileged children in the Dallas area.
Grayson has pioneered a number of initiatives that provide support and guidance to small business owners navigating the complexities of the restaurant industry. “Education is key. We want to empower our community with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed,” he explains. His initiatives focus on building a stronger community, fostering collaboration, and creating a network of support for local entrepreneurs.
Legacy and Vision: A Commitment to Service
When asked about his legacy, Grayson reflects thoughtfully. “I want people to remember me as someone who was a great servant to others,” he shares. “I love being around people, and I genuinely enjoy providing for them. At the end of the day, it’s about making a positive impact.”
Grayson envisions a future where Art Overdose expands further, creating a sunny South Dallas festival that celebrates the rich tapestry of local talent. “I want to see more artists, more vendors, and more community interaction. This is our backyard, and we have everything we need right here in Dallas,” he asserts.
Grayson still finds joy in the little things despite his numerous commitments. “I don’t have a perfect balance between work and play, but I try to carve out time for self-care when I can,” he shares. “After hosting Art Overdose, I needed a few days to recover, but I’m always looking for the next opportunity to create and connect.”
For those looking to keep up with Grayson and his ventures, he invites them to follow his journey on Instagram at @crownholders11 and visit Fivee Bistro and Bar. “I want everyone to know they’re welcome in our space. We’re here to celebrate, connect, and uplift one another,” he concludes.
Erik Grayson’s journey shows that leading with service and putting community first can make anything possible. Through his bold ventures, he’s reshaping South Dallas and proving that collective support creates extraordinary change. Grayson is a living testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and commitment to uplift those around us, embodying the essence of what it means to be a community leader in South Dallas.