Thursday

06-26-2025 Vol 2003

Summer Art Exhibits in Dallas: A Cultural Feast

As summer settles in, Dallas is brimming with vibrant art exhibits that are a feast for the senses.

From an innovative custom grillz exhibit to the awe-inspiring infinity room by Yayoi Kusama, the city offers a diverse array of artistic experiences this season.

At the Dallas Contemporary, the highly anticipated exhibit ‘Masahiro LaMarsh: Anticlastic’ runs through August 31.

Curated by Alexandra Hulsey, this exhibition showcases the intriguing relationship between architectural forms and personal adornment, particularly through the craft of custom grillz.

New York-based artist Masahiro LaMarsh, who is both a jeweler and sculptor, invites viewers to explore his unique creations alongside two thought-provoking videos.

The first is a short film by Japanese-American electronic artist Shigeto, who delves into his family’s WWII incarceration through a blend of archival footage, music, and personal reflection.

The second video, ‘7 Gates,’ poignantly represents the influences that shaped LaMarsh’s custom grill designed for renowned artist Erykah Badu.

For a deeper understanding of this exciting exhibit, readers can check out the July issue of PaperCity, which features an in-depth story by Catherine D. Anspon.

Meanwhile, the Nasher Sculpture Center presents ‘Generations: 150 Years of Sculpture,’ available until August 24.

This exhibition features a fresh selection from the center’s permanent collection, encouraging viewers to engage with the evolving narratives and possibilities of sculpture across a century and a half.

Artworks chronicle significant historical contexts, including two world wars and technological advancements, showcasing recent acquisitions, many of which will be displayed to the public for the first time.

The exhibition is divided into thematic groups, featuring 22 of the 50 works that were acquired last year.

Visitors will not want to miss the current exhibition featuring 2025 Nasher Prize Laureate Otobong Nkanga, which is on view until August 17.

In an exciting return to the Dallas Museum of Art, Yayoi Kusama’s ‘All the Eternal Love I Have for the Pumpkins’ (2016) is captivating audiences once again.

The infinity room, which initially made its Texas debut in 2018 and saw its run extended due to overwhelming popularity, is a striking example of Kusama’s signature style.

Those hoping to experience the mesmerizing visual effects of Kusama’s work should plan ahead, as long lines are expected, and advance ticket purchases are highly recommended.

Lastly, ‘Cecilia Chiang: Don’t Tell Me What To Do’ is now on display at The Crow Museum in the Dallas Arts District and will be available through March 9, 2026.

This exhibition features the imaginative creations of self-taught artist Cecilia Chu Chiang, who works in various mediums including Chinese ink watercolors, oils, acrylics, ceramics, printmaking, textiles, and collage.

With a career spanning over 40 years, Chiang’s works reflect her eclectic inspirations, encompassing everything from flowers and insects to cartoons and the beauty of life itself.

Chiang encapsulates her artistic philosophy, stating, ‘Inspiration appears unintentionally and fleetingly, so it must be seized in an instant.’

This summer, Dallas serves as a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts, offering experiences that celebrate creativity, history, and personal expression.

image source from:papercitymag

Abigail Harper