“untitled: 20 Years of Collecting Contemporary Art” traces the evolution of the McNay Art Museum’s contemporary collection over the past two decades, presenting more than 100 works across painting, sculpture, photography, video and installation. The exhibition underscores the McNay’s dedication to contemporary art and serves as a portrait of curatorial impact. “untitled” parallels the tenure of former head of curatorial affairs René Paul Barilleaux, who played a pivotal role in shaping the Museum’s collection, overseeing the acquisition of more than 200.
In a departure from chronological and thematic frameworks, “untitled” offers visitors a fresh, innovative way to explore the collection and discover new connections across media and time periods. Works are arranged according to the seven elements of art — line, shape, color, form, texture, value and space — along with the design principle of pattern, generating unexpected juxtapositions across media, generations and artistic approaches. Visitors will find works by established and emerging artists in the galleries and on Museum grounds. Many of the artists have ties to San Antonio and several have longstanding relationships with the McNay.
Image Credit: Susie Rosmarin, “Blue (#267),” 2002. Acrylic on canvas. Museum purchase with funds from the McNay Contemporary Collectors Forum, 2005.38. © Susie Rosmarin