TEXAS
From Austin and Houston to Fredericksburg and San Antonio and everywhere in-between, the state of Texas has a dynamic array of regions to visit—meaning a dynamic array of fine art as well. Each of these cities has a truly unique cultural experience that includes events, galleries and museums that entice art collectors at every turn.
Houston, for instance, boasts the Houston Museum District with 19 museums, ranging from history museums and science centers to fine art institutions, in four walkable zones. Among them are Contemporary Arts Museum Houston, Lawndale Art Center and the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, which all have individual schedules of exhibitions and permanent collections that are well-curated and tuned to specific interests. Also calling Houston home are a number of fine art galleries and the annual Texas Contemporary fine art fair, which brings dealers from around the world to the George R. Brown Convention Center for a weekend of art. The show, next happening October 8 to 11, capitalizes on the city’s collector base by presenting contemporary and modern art from 75 exhibitors.
Fredericksburg, located in Texas Hill Country, is a picturesque town with more than a dozen galleries, art studio tours, art schools and the First Friday Art Walk Fredericksburg.
The galleries in the area often host events for national art groups, including the Oil Painters of America and the National Oil & Acrylic Painters’ Society, which draws in artists and art patrons alike.
The Dallas Arts District is one of the largest contiguous urban arts districts in the nation, located in the northeast corner of downtown Dallas. It spans 68 acres and 19 blocks and its mission is to “enhance the city’s creative and economic life by engaging artistic, education and commercial neighbors through excellent design, practices and programs.” The highlight of the District is its Signature Block Party Series, which includes two free public events supporting cultural venues. The city also has a fine art fair that is of interest to collectors: Dallas Art Fair. The event, taking place April 16 to 19, happens at the Fashion Industry Gallery in the Dallas Art District and is focused on modern and contemporary works in thoughtfully curated exhibitions from dealers around the world.
Calling Texas home is the Artists of Texas group, which has annual shows in different galleries throughout the state; Holder Dane Gallery in Grapevine; RS Hanna Gallery in Fredericksburg; and lifelong resident Vickie Guthrie, who focuses her art on still lifes and regional landscapes.