Dallas, USA – August 18, 2025
In a powerful statement on the evolving landscape of global art, the Dallas Museum of Art (DMA) is set to open a major new Exhibition of Latin American Artists, showcasing a remarkable collection of recently acquired works. Titled “Encuentros: Latinx + Latin American Acquisitions,” the show is a vibrant testament to the museum’s commitment to building a collection that more accurately reflects the rich and diverse artistic traditions of the Americas. The exhibition is a bold move that not only celebrates the creativity of Latin American and Latinx artists but also redefines the narrative of modern art itself.
The exhibition’s title, “Encuentros,” meaning “encounters” in Spanish, serves as a fitting metaphor for the show’s purpose: it represents a series of meetings—between art and audience, between cultures, and between the museum and a new generation of artists. The distinction between “Latin American” (artists from Latin America) and “Latinx” (artists of Latin American descent in the US) is a deliberate choice by the curators to highlight the diverse identities and experiences within the broader community. It is a nuanced acknowledgment of the unique contributions of artists shaped by both their heritage and their lived experience in the United States.
Among the standout works in the exhibition are a series of striking canvases by renowned Mexican artist Tania Candiani, known for her innovative explorations of sound and textiles. The show also features large-scale installations by a Cuban-American sculptor, whose work examines themes of migration and identity through repurposed industrial materials. These acquisitions reflect a broader curatorial strategy to move beyond traditional forms and include a wide range of media, from video art and photography to performance-based works.
The DMA’s move is part of a growing trend in the museum world to correct historical imbalances in their collections. For decades, many major institutions have focused their acquisitions on European and Euro-American art, often sidelining or underrepresenting artists from other parts of the world. By actively acquiring works from both established and emerging Latin American and Latinx artists, the DMA is not just filling a gap; it is reshaping its core identity and becoming a more inclusive and relevant institution for a new century.
The museum’s director, Dr. Agustín Arteaga, emphasized the importance of the exhibition, stating, “This show is about more than just art; it is about telling a more complete story of human creativity. These works are not simply ‘regional’ art; they are a vital part of the global artistic conversation. Through these acquisitions, we are ensuring that the voices and visions of these artists are preserved for future generations.”
“Encuentros” is poised to be more than just an art show; it is an educational experience. The exhibition includes extensive interpretive materials, artist interviews, and public programming designed to engage visitors in a deeper conversation about the works and their cultural context. It promises to be a powerful and transformative journey that challenges long-held assumptions and opens up a new world of art to the public.
Headline Points
* A Bold Exhibition: The Dallas Museum of Art is set to open a major new exhibition, “Encuentros: Latinx + Latin American Acquisitions,” showcasing a diverse range of recently acquired works.
* Redefining Identity: The exhibition’s title and focus on both Latin American and Latinx artists highlight the museum’s commitment to building a more inclusive and representative collection.
* Significant Acquisitions: The show features a variety of media from prominent artists, reflecting a trend towards more diverse and contemporary acquisitions.
* Reshaping the Narrative: The exhibition is part of a growing movement in the art world to correct historical imbalances and tell a more complete story of global art.
