Exhibit Archives - Page 3 of 4

NOW, FOR THE VERY BEST

by societytexas | Jan 3, 2021 | 2021 January February, Exhibit

The best musical performances, plays, and exhibits in Texas are enjoyed by record number of crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Leanne Raesener who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state.

AUSTIN

PRINTS CHARMING

The Blanton’s new exhibition, After Michelangelo, Past Picasso: Leo Steinberg’s Library of Prints, takes a rare in-depth look from a selection of his over 3500 European prints in the museum’s collection. Long recognized as a rare art historian, Steinberg is less well known as a European print collector. February 7–May 9. At BlantonMuseum.org

ON IMAGE: The Vanity of Worldly Possessions, after Abraham Bloemaert, 1600, by Jan Saenredam. Courtesy of Blanton Museum of Art, The University of Texas at Austin

THE BEAUTY OF HUMANS

The first solo museum exhibition in Texas by native Austinite and artist Deborah Roberts critiques notions of ideal beauty, the body, race, and identity in contemporary society through the lens of African American children. In tandem, a new figurative mural on the exterior of the Jones Center building titled Deborah Roberts: I’m, will be on display. January 23–August 15. At TheContemporaryAustin.org.

ON IMAGE: Deborah Roberts, The duty of disobedience, 2020. Artwork © Deborah Roberts. Courtesy of the artist. Image courtesy The Contemporary Austin. Photo by Paul Bardagjy.

LET’S MAKE SOME NOISE

The Texas Performing Arts Center presents STOMP, an international, award-winning, explosive, provocative, sophisticated, utterly unique show that appeals to audiences of all ages. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. Two special performances on January 9. At TexasPerformingArts.org.

ON IMAGE: Photo courtesy of The Stomp Company, LLC.

DALLAS / FORT WORTH

HOME SWEET HOME

For a Dreamer of Houses is an imaginative and immersive exhibition of over fifty works from the DMA’s collection that explores the significance of the spaces we inhabit and how they represent ourselves, our values, and desires. Through July 4. At DMA.org.

ON IMAGE: Alex Da Corte’s Rubber Pencil Devil (2018). Photo by John Smith. Courtesy of the Dallas Museum of Art.

THREE ICONIC PIECES, ONE INCREDIBLE NIGHT.

Texas Ballet Theater presents Serenade, a Balanchine classic, Ben Stevenson’s world premiere of Star Crossed, a passionate pas de deux of the famous lovers, Romeo and Juliet and the World Premiere by Tim O’Keefe featuring never-before-seen choreography. Performances February 5-14. At TexasBalletTheater.org.

ON IMAGE: Photo courtesy of the Texas Ballet Theater.

REALLY REGAL

The Kimbell Art Museum’s special exhibition, Queen Nefertari’s Egypt, celebrates Nefertari, one of the most celebrated, highly regarded, and educated queens of ancient Egypt and the great Pharaoh Ramesses II’s favorite wife. Nefertari and other royal women are brought to life through approximately 230 exceptional objects. Through March 14. At KimbellArt.org.

ON IMAGE: Statuette of Ahmose-Nefertari Photo courtesy of Kimbell Art Museum.

HOUSTON

SO NEW AND ENGAGING

The Museum of Fine Art Houston’s new, translucent Kinder Building is dedicated to displaying the venue’s outstanding and fast-growing international collections of modern and contemporary art. At its street level is a light-filled environment by James Turrell. The first installations are accompanied by major site-specific commissioned works by artists such as El Anatsui, Ólafur Elíasson, and Ai Weiwei, to name a few. At MFAH.org.

ON IMAGE: The Nancy and Rich Kinder Building at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Photo by Peter Molick.

Through December 27. At MFAH.org.

ON IMAGE: Egypt, Mosque Lamp, c. 1320, enamel and gilded glass, The al-Sabah Collection, Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah, Kuwait.

DOORWAY TO OPPORTUNITIES

The Menil’s exhibition Allora & Calzadilla: Specters of Noon explores early Christian texts that describe acedia as a demon that besieges the soul at noon when the day listlessly drags. Seven sculptural works by Puerto Rico-based artists Allora & Calzadilla revolve around this concept. Through June 20. At Menil.org.

ON IMAGE: Installation view of Allora & Calzadilla, Graft, 2019. Courtesy of The Menil. Photo by Paul Hester.

MULTIGENERATIONAL IN YEARS YET KINDRED SPIRITS AT HEART

The Contemporary Art Museum of Houston’s Wild Life: Elizabeth Murray & Jessi Reaves exhibition brings together paintings by Elizabeth Murray and the work of New York-based sculptor Jessi Reaves. Although Murray and Reaves are generations apart, this exhibition highlights each artist’s simultaneously lyrical, playful, and rigorous engagement with the decorative, domestic, and bodily. January 21–May 16. At CAMH.org.

SAN ANTONIO

THERE IS NO OCEAN WIDE ENOUGH

No Ocean Between Us: Art of Asian Diasporas in Latin America & The Caribbean, 1945 ―Present features approximately 75 works of modern and contemporary art by Latin American global dialogues between their Asian heritages and Latin American or Caribbean identities, and Caribbean artists of Asian descent. On view February 12–May 9. At SAMuseum.org.

ON IMAGE: Tomie Ohtake, Untitled, 1968, oil on canvas. © OAS AMA | Art Museum of the

STOP IN THE NAME OF HOPE

Robert Indiana: A Legacy of Love honors the late Pop icon’s life, art, and resounding legacy. A self-proclaimed painter of signs, Robert Indiana shaped a highly original body of work that explores American identity; his own personal history; and the power of abstraction, symbolism, and language. Through January 24. At McNayArt.org.

ON IMAGE: Robert Indiana, Sheet from Four Seasons of Hope, 2012. Screenprint. Gift of Michael, Leif, and Simona McKenzie, American Image Art.

IF LIFE GIVES YOU LEMONS

Please Form A Straight Line is a timely, diverse, and innovative group exhibition featuring artists who explore collectivity, municipality, property, architecture, and the control and regulation of bodies. The Blue Star Contemporary’s show acts as a mirror to our current realities. Through May 9. At BlueStarContemporary.org.

ON IMAGE: Jamal Cyrus, Lemon’s New World Blues, 2014, latex on masonite, Courtesy of Inman Gallery Houston

CHOOSING MORE CULTURE

by societytexas | Nov 1, 2020 | 2020 November December, Exhibit

The best plays, musical performances, and exhibits in Texas are enjoyed by record number crowds again, in person and virtually, according to our cultural adventurer Leanne Raesener, who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state.

AUSTIN

TRANSFORMATIVE TIMES

Expanding Abstraction, Pushing the Boundaries of Painting in the Americas, 1958–1983, from the Blanton’s extensive collection of abstract painting from the 1960s and 70s, explores how painting was transformed during these decades. Many of the works are large scale and have rarely been shown before.

Through January 10, 2021. At BlantonMuseum.org.

ON IMAGE: Alice Baber, Lavender High, 1968, oil on canvas, Blanton Museum of Art, The University of Texas at Austin, Michener Acquisition Fund, 1969.

LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE

This Light of Ours: Activist Photographers of the Civil Rights Movement tells a visual story of the struggle against segregation, race-based disenfranchisement, and Jim Crow laws in the 1960s. The Bullock Museum is pleased to include more than a dozen additional images representing activism and protest in Austin’s own local history.

On view through December 6. At TheStoryofTexas.com.

ON IMAGE: MFDP delegates demonstrate as President Lyndon Johnson was nominated. Victoria Gray, from Hattiesburg, the woman at the center, is a prominent MFDP leader. Atlantic City, New Jersey. ©1964 George Ballis, Courtesy CDEA.

THE GREAT WHITE WAY GOES LOCAL

The Texas Performing Arts announced that it is presenting Live from the West Side: Women of Broadway featuring Tony Award winner Laura Benanti (11/14) and critically acclaimed actress and singer Vanessa Williams (12/5). Each virtual show will feature a mix of Broadway show tunes, pop songs, and personal stories from each artist’s life.

November 14 and December 5. At TexasPerformingArts.org.

ON IMAGE: Vanessa Williams: Photo courtesy of Rod Spicer

DALLAS / FORT WORTH

WORLDWIDE AND TIMELESS

To Be Determined, juxtaposes works from many centuries, geographies, and cultures to trace how art’s significance can shift when presented in new contexts. Drawn from the DMA’s global collection, from the 13th century to the present, it affirms individuals’ and communities’ resilience that resonates with both current and historical struggles.

Through December 27. At DMA.org.

ON IMAGE: Perro Aullando, 1960, Art©Tamayo Heirs/Mexico/Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY.

CREATING COMMON GROUND

Contemporary artist Marina Adams highlights seven of her energetic abstract paintings that are immersive in scale, as well as recent small gouache, works on paper in her exhibition Focus: Marina Adams. Adams’ paintings are rooted in textile design and architecture, with literature and history also playing important roles.

Through January 10, 2021. At TheModern.org.

ON IMAGE: Marina Adams, Cheops, 2018

TIMES ARE A CHANGIN’

The Nasher Sculpture Center presents Resist/Release, a dialogue between forms of resistance and release in sculptures by several artists, including newly-acquired works by Magdalena Abakanowicz and John Chamberlain. Recently resistance has been embraced by artists who have struggled for acceptance due to their gender or race.

Through January 7, 2021. At NasherSculptureCenter.org.

ON IMAGE: Dorothy Dehner, Resist/Release, 2020, Courtesy Nasher Sculpture Center, Photo courtesy of Kevin Todora

HOUSTON

SHINE YOUR LIGHT

Discover themes of light and radiance in the exhibition Art of Islamic Lands: Selections from the al-Sabah Collection, Kuwait from one of the most significant privately-held collections of Islamic art in the world. The Museum’s landmark partnership with the Kuwait-based al-Sabah Collection and the cultural institution Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah continues with this expanded installation that more than triples the original display to now over 250 works.

Through December 27. At MFAH.org.

ON IMAGE: Egypt, Mosque Lamp, c. 1320, enamel and gilded glass, The al-Sabah Collection, Dar al-Athar al-Islamiyyah, Kuwait.

CLICK, CLICK, CLICK

Photography and the Surreal Imagination presents the broad reach in modern and contemporary photography that questions the very nature of representation. Groundbreaking photographers in the show include Eugène Atget, Allison Janae Hamilton, Hans Bellmer, Cindy Sherman, Man Ray, and Lorna Simpson.

Through November 29. At Menil.org.

ON IMAGE: Max Ernst, German, 1891 – 1976 Health through Sport (La santé par le sport), ca. 1920. Photograph, 1981-044 DJ.

LET FREEDOM RING

The U.S. premiere of Mandela: Struggle for Freedom is a rich sensory experience of imagery, soundscape, digital media, and objects that explore the earthshaking fight for justice and human dignity in South Africa–and its relevance to issues of today. Visitors can experience the tiny cell where Nobel Peace Prize-winning and first democratically elected president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela was held.

Through January 3, 2021. At HMH.org.

ON IMAGE: Mandela with a raised fist, moments
after his release from prison (after 27 years) on
February 11, 1990. Photograph by Graeme
Williams.

SAN ANTONIO

MODERN TIMES, MODERN DRAWINGS

The McNay has been known for its collection of drawings and watercolors by American modernists. The Hockney to Warhol: Contemporary Drawings from the Collection exhibition is visitors’ first opportunity to view an exclusive selection in a single show. Drawings by Leonardo Drew, David Hockney, Beth van Hoesen, Yvonne Jacquette, Donald Judd, Ed Ruscha, and Andy Warhol are presented.

Through January 2, 2021. At McNayArt.org.

ON IMAGE: David Hockney, Looking at Pictures on a Screen, 1977. Colored pencil on paper. Collection of the McNay Art Museum, Bequest of Robert H. Halff. © David Hockney.

BE TRANSPORTED TO MAGICAL TIME

Enjoy Vadim Gluzman with the Olmos Ensemble and Timothy Jones in an exclusive socially distanced concert, The Soldier’s Tale, that brings to life the glorious violinistic tradition of the 19th and 20th centuries to one of Texas’s premier chamber music organizations make for a magical evening.

Special performance on November 7. At TobinCenter.org.

ON IMAGE: Photo courtesy of Marco Borggreve

FORTY FOR FORTY

The museum’s Elizabeth and Robert Lende collection has promised the Museum their outstanding collection of silver adornments, assembled over the past forty years. The exhibition, Exquisite Adornment: Turkmen and Miao Jewelry from the Elizabeth and Robert Lende Collection showcases their gift and features a broad range of exquisitely crafted silver.

Through January 3, 2021. At SAMuseum.org.

ON IMAGE: Headdress or Bridal Diadem, Turkmenistan (Yomud, Teke, Nochuoli), late 19th to early 20th century, Silver inlaid with carnelian, Promised gift from Elizabeth and Robert Lende, L.2020.23.7. Photo courtesy of Seale Studios.

NEW AND EXTRAORDINARY

by societytexas | Aug 31, 2020 | 2020 September October, Exhibit, Culture

The finest cultural experiences in Texas are back, according to our cultural adventurer Leanne Raesener, who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state.

AUSTIN

BLOSSOMING THIS FALL

In Courtney Egan’s exhibition, Superflora, the central work is a large-scale interactive video projection. As viewers move along the walls, the floral imagery blossoms, and fades, responding to their presence. On view September 17―January 10. At UmlaufSculpture.org.

IMAGE: Courtney Egan Sleepwalkers (Night Blooming Cereus) 2013 Looping video projection, HD (Ed. of 10)

WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL

The newly opened Wonderspaces Austin, a 24,000 square foot industrial space, partners with artists to present an evolving showcase of extraordinary art to new audiences. It currently features over a dozen artists with multiple interactive displays. Of particular note is a sculpture, The Immigrant comprised of 2,300 wooden balls, by Brooklyn-based artist Michael Murphy. On view currently. At Austin.Wonderspaces.com.

IMAGE: October 01, 2019, by Arseny Vesnin in 2019, art. USA, Portfolios

JUST A DREAM

Artist Juan Mũnoz’s Last Conversation Piece appears theatrical in its arrangement. However, visitors at The Contemporary―Laguna Gloria may enter the conversation space, even as the sculpture’s stony faces pay them no mind. One may sense a subtle disconnect from reality as if confronting the figures in a dream. November 19―Ongoing. At TheContemporaryAustin.org.

IMAGE: Juan Muñoz, Last Conversation Piece, 1994–1995. Collection of Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Museum Purchase, 1995. Artwork © Juan Muñoz. Photograph by Brian Fitzsimmons

DALLAS / FORT WORTH

TO ADMIRE…NOT TO BREAK

Commissioned for the reopening of the Amon Carter Museum in Fort Worth, Puente Nuevo is an immersive experience of large-scale artwork made from materials used to construct piñatas. Contemporary artist Justin Favela draws on his own Mexican and Guatemalan heritage. September 14–November 15. At www.CarterMuseum.org.

IMAGE: A walk through a #papermache #garden #denver #colorado…awesome #installationart by Justin Favela
@denverartmuseum

SPANISH RENAISSANCE CAPTURED

Berruguete Through the Lens: Photographs from a Barcelona Archive parallels this past spring’s major exhibition, Alonso Berruguete: First Sculptor of Renaissance Spain. Featuring early-twentieth-century photographs of works by Alonso Berruguete (c. 1488–1561). Through January 10. At MeadowsMuseumDallas.org.

MEET YOU AT THE FAIR

Over the past two decades, Mark Bradford has created monumental works of abstract painting and collage. Growing up in his mother’s hair salon and becoming a hairdresser himself, in End Papers, he incorporates in his art the thin, delicate papers used to protect hair from overheating during the permanent wave process. Through January 10. At www.TheModern.org.

IMAGE: On a clear day, I can usually see all the way to Watts, 2001. The Bluff Collection. © Mark Bradford

HOUSTON

OFF THE TOP OF MY HEAD

Hats Off: Halston Hats from the Masterson Collection explores the art of millinery in the mid-20th century through hats and hair accessories designed by renowned American fashion designer Halston. Of particular note is the now infamous pillbox hat designed by Halston for Jackie Kennedy that she wore at the 1961 presidential inauguration. Through January 21. At MFAH.org.

IMAGE: Halston, for Bergdorf Goodman, Hat, 1959–67, white mink fur, the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the Rienzi Collection, gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harris Masterson III

WHY BE ORDINARY?

Breaking Tradition: Contemporary Approaches to the Decorative Arts features three artists, Sophie Glenn, Steven Young Lee, and Beth Lipman, who challenge the dominant cultural narratives of the decorative arts through iconoclastic furniture, porcelain, photography, and cast-metal pieces. Through January 3. At CraftHouston.org.

IMAGE: Steven Young Lee Gourd Vase with Bats and Clouds, Contemporary, Ceramic, Sculpture, Cobalt, 2019

FOUR FOR THE SHOW

The Mercury Chamber Orchestra is performing the audience-favorite Vivaldi’s Four Seasons under the baton of Antoine Plante, artistic director, with soloist and concertmaster Jonathan Godfrey. Experience the elements of the four seasons with an energetic performance, complemented with dramatic lighting. Special performance on September 5. At www.MillerOutdoorTheatre.com.

IMAGE: Courtesy of Miller Outdoor Theatre

SAN ANTONIO

CAPTURING THE RENAISSANCE

Hollywood’s Sistine Chapel: Sacred Sets for Stage & Scene captures the Renaissance in both theatre and cinema. Six hand-painted, sound-stage backdrops from the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) studio will “guest star” in this exhibition, alongside exquisite artworks from The Tobin Collection of Theatre Arts. September 10―April 4. At www.McNayArt.org.
IMAGE: Courtesy of McNay Art Museum

THE ANCIENTS' DNA INSPIRES TODAY

The new VISUAL VOICES: Contemporary Chickasaw Art exhibition contains nearly sixty artworks of fifteen present-day Chickasaw painters, potters, sculptors, metalsmiths, and weavers that convey a beautiful and compelling contemporary visual story. On view September 24―January 18. At www.BriscoeMuseum.org.

IMAGE: Copyright: All images property of Andrew Feiler

GO BEHIND THE SEAMS

The Witte’s exhibition, Fiesta Couture: Behind the Seams, takes a rare glimpse inside the workrooms where skilled artisans work together for months, hand-sewing embellishments on the iconic gowns and dazzling trains that together result in the most glamourous night of Fiesta. Through November 15. At WitteMuseum.org

IMAGE: Fiesta Couture, courtesy Witte Museum

DIGITALLY CULTURAL

by societytexas | May 30, 2020 | Summer 2020, Exhibit, Culture

The best plays, musical performances, and exhibits in Texas are enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Leanne Raesener who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state.

AUSTIN

DEEP IN THE VAULTS OF TEXAS

Sixty From The 60s, an exhibit originally on view in 2015 at the LBJ Library, is now available online. It features iconic photographs, historical objects, and more related to sixty Americans who made an impact on this seminal, swinging era. At LBJLibrary.org.

ON IMAGE: Courtesy of The LBJ Presidential Library

GLOBAL SUCCESS REWARDED

The Harry Ransom Center, drawing primarily from its own collection of over 300 items, including numerous documents, photos, and videos never before seen in public, presents Gabriel García Márquez, The Making of a Global Writer. Márquez is best known for his Nobel Prize-winning novel, One Hundred Years of Solitude. Through August 30. At HRC.UTexas.edu.

ON IMAGE: Courtesy of The Harry Ransom CenterTexas.

EXPLORE THE BLANTON. ANYTIME. ANYWHERE.

The Blanton Museum of Art has its assortment of digital resources available so that you can #MuseumFromHome. Explore their permanent collection, peek behind the scenes with Blanton staff, watch artist interviews, learn about Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin, and more. At BlantonMuseum.org.

ON IMAGE: Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin. Courtesy of The Blanton Museum of Art at The University of Texas at Austin.

DALLAS / FORT WORTH

STAY IN. STAY DMA.

One of Alfredo Ramos Martínez’s masterpieces, Flores Mexicanas: Women in Modern Mexican Art, is on display for the first time at The Dallas Museum of Art. The loan of this monumental painting inspired the exhibition. Online and on view through September 20. At DMA.org.

ON IMAGE: Alfredo Ramos Martinez, Flores Mexicanas, 1914-1929. © The Alfredo Ramos Martínez Research Project, reproduced by permission. Courtesy of Dallas Museum of Art

ALWAYS DIFFERENT, AVAILABLE & FREE

The Dallas Contemporary has announced #dcfromhome—a digital hub to inspire creativity for all ages. Explore their website for family-friendly, and adult content programming such as curator guided deep dives into exhibitions, virtual studio visits, and more. Don’t miss their weekly Spotify playlist, Hang Tight. At DallasContemporary.org.

ON IMAGE: Paola Pivi, Ma’am, 2016. Courtesy of Dallas Contemporary

MEET YOU AT THE FAIR

The Dallas Art Fair will present Dallas Art Fair Online, a new platform allowing collectors to preview, and purchase works digitally from participating galleries. The Fair has been rescheduled to October 2020. At DallasArtFair.com.

ON IMAGE: Isabelle du Toit, Casual Chat, 2020. Courtesy of Cris Worley Gallery, Dallas Art Fair

HOUSTON

ASIA SOCIETY: AROUND THE WORLD

The Asia Society will now be brought directly to you through its digital channels with content for all ages. Join the journey on social media via #AsiaSocietyAtHome and be a part of the adventure. Available online at AsiaSociety.org.

ON IMAGE: Courtesy of Asia Society

MFAH IN YOUR LIVING ROOM

The Museum of Fine Arts Houston has launched a new virtual museum experience, #MFAHatHOME, to share its treasures with audiences around the world. Online at MFAH.org.

ON IMAGE: Painting by Richard Stout. Courtesy of MFAH

MUSIC TO OUR EARS

The Houston Symphony understands there is no substitute for a live orchestral performance. However, they will still bring you their transporting sounds on Spotify. Also, their broadcast programs are available both online and at Houston Public Media each Sunday. At HoustonSymphony.org.

ON IMAGE: Courtesy of The Houston Symphony

SAN ANTONIO

DREAMING OF SELENA

The McNay Art Museum pays tribute to the beloved 90s icon, singer, designer, and Texas legend—Selena Quintanilla-Pérez in its exhibition Selena Forever/Siempre Selena with five photographs by award-winning San Antonio photographer John Dyer. Online and on view through July 23, 2020. At McNayArt.org.

ON IMAGE: Selena, 1992. By John Dyer. Collection of the artist, courtesy of McNay Art Museum

SAMA CURATES TO YOU

SAMA remains committed to enriching lives through exceptional experiences with art. Discover through a digital landscape its permanent collection of art from around the world. Check out its exhibition Texas Women: A New History of Abstract Art. Follow samuseum on Spotify to listen to the museum’s #SAMAJams series. Don’t miss kids’ story time with educators every Thursday or explore online learning and art-making activities for the kids. Available online at SAMuseum.org.

ON IMAGE: The Game, 2015. Photo by Terrell James. Courtesy of the San Antonio Museum of Art. Photography by Peggy Tenis

WITTE YOU WERE HERE, WITTE WHERE YOU ARE

Witte Where You Are provides engaging, interactive experiences that you can do at home. Investigate how the past connects to today and digitally explore Witte artifacts, take virtual gallery tours, and more. At WitteMuseum.org.

ON IMAGE: Courtesy of the Witte Museum

CULTURAL ADVANTAGES

by societytexas | Feb 28, 2020 | 2020 March April, Exhibit

The best plays, musical performances, and exhibits in Texas are enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Leanne Raesener who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state.

AUSTIN

HERE’S TO THE CROONERS

While Harry Connick, Jr. is the definition of a multi-talented star, the foundation of his art has always been his music. Enjoy an evening with this bayou renaissance man and his band for an intimate performance of songs from his impressive new record, True Love: A Celebration of Cole Porter, as well as classics from his remarkable career. March 10. At TheLongCenter.org.

Courtesy of the Harry Connick, official website and The Long Center

LOOKING FASHIONABLY FORWARD…

The Fashion Forward exhibit at the Bullock State History Museum explores the evolution of style and how we think about clothes, all through a Texas lens. Discover the historical and cultural context of garments from some of the fashion world’s biggest names. Create your own looks at a fabric draping station and strike a pose on the runway. Through April 12. At TheStoryOfTexas.com.

Evening Dress, Valentino Garavani. Photo courtesy of the Bullock Museum in collaboration with the Texas Fashion Collection, College of Visual Arts & Design, University of North Texas.

SOMETHING TO WISH FOR

Discover a whole new world at Disney’s Alladin; the hit Broadway musical. This timeless story is a thrilling new production that is filled with unforgettable beauty, magic, comedy and breathtaking spectacle. It’s an extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. March 11-22. At TexasPerformingArts.org.

Photo by Deen van Meer.

DALLAS / FORT WORTH

EXTRAVAGANTLY SEDUCTIVE

The special exhibition, Flesh and Blood, will feature nearly 40 masterpieces from the Capodimonte Museum in Naples. These incredible paintings are a journey through the Italian Renaissance and Baroque periods. Such extraordinarily beautiful scenes can be moving or imposing, violent, extravagant, or even seductive. On view March 1―June 14. At KimbellArt.org.

Guido Reni, Atalanta and Hippomenes, c.1620―25, oil on canvas. Photo courtesy of the Capodimonte Museum in Naples. “

MASTERFUL CLICKS

Looking In: Photography from the Outside takes an in-depth look by six influential twentieth-century artists: Richard Avedon, Morris Engel, Laura Gilpins, Dorothea Lange, Danny Lyon, and Paul Strand, who navigated their role as “outsider” differently, raising complicated questions about perception, representation, and power. Through May 10. At CarterMuseum.org.

Freida Kleinsasser, Thirteen Year Old, Hutterite Colony, Harlowton, Montana, 1983, Gelatin silver print, Richard Avedon (1923–2004). Photo courtesy of Amon Carter Museum of American Art.

REVOLUTIONARY SCULPTOR

The Meadows Museum and The National Gallery of Art (Washington, D.C.) present Alonso Berruguete: First Sculptor of Renaissance Spain (c. 1488–1561), the first major U.S. exhibition dedicated to the Spanish sculptor who emerged as 16th century Spain’s most innovative artist, revolutionizing Spanish art. March 29―July 29. At MeadowsMuseumDallas.org.

Alonso Berruguete (Spanish, c. 1488–1561), The Sacrifice of Isaac, 1526–1533. Painted wood with gilding. Museo Nacional de Escultura, Valladolid. Image © Museo Nacional de Escultura, Valladolid (Spain); photo by Javier Muñoz and Paz Pastor.

HOUSTON

LET FREEDOM RING

Perfect as a reminder for these political times, The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, presents Norman Rockwell: American Freedom, an exhibition devoted to Rockwell’s iconic depictions of FDR’s Four Freedoms—Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Worship, Freedom from Fear, and Freedom from Want. Houston is the fifth venue for the acclaimed exhibition’s seven-city tour organized by the Norman Rockwell Museum. Through March 22. At MFAH.org.

Photo courtesy of Norman Rockwell (1894-1978), “Freedom of Speech,” 1943. Illustration for “The Saturday Evening Post,” February 20, 1943. Photo courtesy of the collection of the Norman Rockwell Museum © 1943 SEPS: Licensed by Curtis Licensing, Indianapolis, IN. All rights reserved.

SHE ALWAYS GETS WHAT SHE WANTS

R. Strauss’s compelling psychodrama Salome returns to the Houston Grand Opera for the first time in 20 years in a production directed by Francisco Negrin. The revolutionary score reinvents Oscar Wilde’s biblical drama of a deeply disturbed princess who has fallen in love with Jokanaan (John the Baptist). April 18―May 1. At HoustonGrandOpera.org.

Courtesy of Houston Grand Opera

COME FROM AWAY AND STAY AWHILE

Broadway’s Come From Away is a Best Musical winner across North America. This New York Times Critics’ pick takes you into the heart of the remarkable true story of 9/11’s 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. March 3–8. At TheHobbyCenter.org.

Courtesy of Michael Murphy

SAN ANTONIO

RUNWAY READY

The McNay Art Museum’s new exhibit, Fashion Nirvana: Runway to Everyday features iconic and innovative garments plus video art from the 1990s—a decade that’s known for revolutionizing the fashion and art worlds. It features designers including Oscar de la Renta, Gianni Versace, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Tom Ford, and more. Through May 17. At McNayArt.org.

Victor Costa, Wedding Dress, 1992. Silk satin, net, rhinestones. Texas Fashion Collection, University of North Texas, Gift of the Estate of Doris I. Dixon, 1996.016.002.

THE MAGIC OF CLAY AND FIRE

This ongoing focus installation, The Magic of Clay and Fire: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics, is now in its second rotation, featuring sixteen new works that showcase unique shapes, techniques, and glazes. Through April 22, 2020. At SAMuseum.org.

Miyashita Zenji, Japanese, 1939-2012, Ki no jôshô (Rising Air), 2004, Stoneware and colored clays bands with clear overglaze; h. 19 ¼ in. (48.9 cm); w. 12 ¼ in. (31.1 cm); d. 6 7/8 in. (17.5 cm), Collection of Susan L. and C.J. Peters, Photography by Richard Goodbody.

A HEAVENLY GIFT

Shen Yun invites you to travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing the boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops, and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away! March 27-29, 2020. At TobinCenter.org.

Courtesy of Shen Yun.

CULTURE THAT CAPTIVATES

by societytexas | Dec 31, 2019 | 2020 January February, Exhibit, Culture

The best plays, musical performances, and exhibits in Texas are being enjoyed by record number crowds, according to our cultural adventurer Claire-Lise Greve who shares our favorite recommendations from across the state in this issue.

AUSTIN

A TALE OF PERSEVERANCE

Taking place the week after the tragic attacks of September 11th, Come From Away tells the true story of what happened to the 7,000 stranded passengers of the flights that were ordered to land in the aftermath of the attacks. Filled with life lessons about culture and perseverance, this is a wonderful musical for all to see. February 18 through 23. At TexasPerformingArts.org

photo courtesy of the West End production of Come From Away

AVANT-GARDE IN LATIN AMERICA

Coming to the Blanton Museum of Art this February, The Avant-garde Networks of Amauta explores the development of avant-garde art in Central and South America. Created by José Carlos Mariátegui, the Peruvian magazine known as Amauta was known for its political and cultural pieces throughout the 20th century. This must-see exhibit shows Latin American avant-garde art through its connection to Amauta. February 16 through May 17. At BlantonMuseum.org

Photo courtesy of The Blanton Museum

PEAKS AND TRAGEDIES

Continuing its 2019-20 season, Austin Opera presents Everest, the story of the infamous 1996 climbing season at Mount Everest, which notably took so many lives. Originated by the Dallas Opera in 2015, this production features three of the leads from the original. This is a wonderful show that runs about 75 minutes and is recommended for patrons above the age of 8 due to its dark subject matter. January 23, 25, & 26. At AustinOpera.org

Photo courtesy of The Austin Opera

DALLAS / FORT WORTH

MUSIC’S MAGIC

Winner of 10 Tony® Awards, The Band’s Visit tells the story of a group of lost musicians who stumble upon a small town, and through music, they breathe new life into the town. Coming to the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas this February, this musical will make you laugh and cry all in the span of about two hours. February 18 through 23. At ATTPAC.org

Photo courtesy of original Broadway company of The Band’s Visit

WHAT BEAUTIFUL BIRDS

Paving the way for nature photography as we know it, Eliott Porter was known for his polychromatic renderings of the fascinating marvels of nature. The Amon Carter Museum presents Eliot Porter’s Birds this January to highlight his love for photographing birds. Spanning over 50-years, this exhibit shows some of the most stunning and unique examples of avian photography. January 4 through May 10. At CarterMuseum.org

Photo courtesy of The Amon Carter Museum

STRENGTH FOR THE AGES

Fort Worth’s Bass Performance Hall presents The Color Purple as part of its Broadway Special Series. Running for only one night, this Tony award-winning revival tells the story of one of Broadway’s most resilient characters, Celie, over a 35- year span of her life. Set in Georgia in the early 20th century, this drama with a Grammy® Award-winning score of jazz, gospel, ragtime, and blues, combined with exhilarating dance numbers is a joy to behold for the whole family. January 5. At the BassHall.com

Photo courtesy of Bass Performance Hall

HOUSTON

A CLASSIC FAIRYTALE

For their 50th anniversary season, the Houston Ballet presents The Sleeping Beauty choreographed by the iconic Ben Stevenson. This exquisite ballet takes inspiration from the famous French fairytale in which a young princess is fated to sleep for 100 years, but is saved by a magical kiss from her lover. Coming this February, this classic story is perfect for the whole family. February 27 through March 8. At HoustonBallet.org

Photo courtesy of the Houston Ballet

RADICAL & INVENTIVE

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston presents Radical: Italian Design 1965-1985, The Dennis Freedman Collection, a new exhibit that examines the radical designs of Italy after World War II. Everything from furniture to architecture to even lighting designs are featured, with about half of the works being gifts from the Dennis Freedman Collection. February 14 through April 26. At MFAH.org

Photo courtesy of MFAH

A TIMELESS CLASSIC

This January, the Houston Grand Opera presents Verdi’s Aida with new designs and enchanting choreography. Set in ancient Egypt, this opera tells the story of a captured princess and a general who fall into a forbidden romance. This epic tale of love and loyalty is a must-see for all opera aficionados. January 31 through February 16. At HoustonGrandOpera.org

Photo courtesy of Houston Grand Opera

SAN ANTONIO

COMPELLING WOMEN

Mary Cassatt’s Women focuses on the artist’s images of the ordinary and often intimate moments from the daily lives of upper-middle-class women like herself—as they care for children, ride the public omnibus, or enjoy the ritual of having tea. What makes Cassatt’s work compelling is how she elevates what could be dismissed as mundane subject matter through her masterful approach to color and composition. Through February 9. At McNayArt..org

Courtesy of McNay Art Museum

IN LOVE AND WAR

From the creators of Les Miserables, Miss Saigon tells the dramatic story of a young Vietnamese woman who falls in love with an American G.I. but is torn by love, war, and family during the Vietnam War. Coming this January to San Antonio’s Majestic Theatre, this is a heart-wrenching show for more mature audiences. January 7 through 12. At SanAntonio.Broadway.com

Photo courtesy of the North American Touring Company of Miss Saigon

A NEW HISTORY OF ABSTRACT ART

This February, the San Antonio Museum of Art presents Texas Women: A New History of Abstract Art, a new exhibition that explores female artist’s exploration of abstract art in the 20th century. Featuring artists such as Dorthy Antoinette LaSelle, Susie Rosmarin, Terrel James, and many more, this exhibit incorporates a cultivated collection comprising a variety of materials, processes, and works. February 7 through May 3. At SAMuseum.org

Photo courtesy of The San Antonio Museum of Art and Terrell James