The Dallas Museum of Art is currently holding an exhibition of his work until May 26 called Chagall: Beyond Color. It features pieces starting from early in his art career to the maturity he developed later on through theatre projects as well as more traditional mediums. The following images are pieces that are in the exhibit. Unfortunately, I couldn't take any photos of the paintings/costumes in the museum so I took note of the ones that stood out most to me and am including them now.
As an artist, I like to see detail in the texture of paintings. This means getting close, crouching down to view various angles of the work, and making the guards (and boyfriend) very nervous in the meantime. I enjoyed being able to absorb the varying weights, thickness, and texture of applied paint. I hate to say it, but digital copies of his paintings don't really compare to seeing them in person. The richness of color in each is captivating and thoughtfully composed.
Also, this guy really likes goats. And half-goat men.
Or any animal+human form I guess.
Before the visit to the museum I wasn't aware that Chagall designed costumes and backdrops for theater. Those in charge of curating and setting up the costumes within the exhibit did a thoughtful job on its presentation, creating a truly haunting yet very attractive stage for Chagall and his phantom dancers.
This three dimensional showcase of the costumes and backdrop was my absolute favorite part of the experience. As a former dancer I feel that I weirdly related to the dancers that once filled the costumes. It made me feel sad that they weren't on the museum's stage, filling the costumes that are now yellowing with age.
My former dance instructor is the artistic director of Elle Danceworks who are also affiliated with my current school, The University of Texas at Dallas. In honor of the series of Chagall paintings, the company will be performing choreography commemorating the artist. Find out more information here.
Later, I will be talking about the Cindy Sherman exhibit that is also being featured at the DMA. Stay tuned!
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