The Museum of Fine Arts (MFAH) in Houston has launched a major exhibition titled “Texas Through the Lens: Contemporary Artists Reflecting the Lone Star State”, which opened to the public on June 15, 2025. The exhibition is a celebration of the artistic diversity and cultural history of Texas, showcasing the works of over 50 contemporary Texas-based artists. This collection provides an in-depth look at how artists are using their craft to reflect the ever-changing identity of the state.
A Celebration of Texas Identity
The exhibit offers a broad exploration of Texas, with works ranging from depictions of the state’s rural landscapes to explorations of its urban life and political history. For decades, Texas has been a land of contrasts—vast deserts, sprawling urban metropolises, and culturally diverse communities—and this exhibition captures that multifaceted identity through the eyes of some of the state’s most prominent artists.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is “In the Garden of Liberty” by renowned artist Margarita Cabrera. Cabrera, whose works often address themes of immigration, labor, and identity, presents a series of life-sized sculptures made of reclaimed materials, representing the struggles and resilience of migrant farm workers in Texas. These pieces, intricately woven with vibrant colors, confront the audience with the reality of migration and the complexities of cultural integration.
In a different corner of the exhibit, Mark Menjivar’s photography offers a stark, intimate portrayal of everyday Texans. His piece “Homebound” presents portraits of individuals in Texas’ rural and urban spaces, portraying personal narratives of survival, resilience, and community ties. The raw emotion captured in Menjivar’s photographs resonates deeply with viewers, pushing them to reflect on the everyday lives that often go unnoticed.
Texas as a State of Contradictions
Throughout the exhibition, the artists showcase Texas as a place of both grandeur and hardship. The vast open spaces of West Texas are contrasted with the ever-growing metropolitan areas such as Austin and Dallas. While many artists celebrate the natural beauty of the Texas landscape, they also critique the complex issues of gentrification, immigration, and social justice that continue to shape the state’s future.
Jessica Kauffman, one of the curators for the exhibition, explains that the show “isn’t just about Texas landscapes or iconic imagery like the Alamo. It’s about creating a conversation on how artists interpret and engage with the state’s past, present, and future. It’s an inclusive look that embraces everyone from the rural communities to the high-rise urbanites.”
A powerful example of this duality can be found in the works of Texas-based street artist, Daniel Aguilar. His bold graffiti-inspired murals combine Texas symbols—such as the Lone Star flag—with vibrant urban imagery that speaks to the state’s growing diversity. Aguilar’s art challenges the viewer to reconsider what it means to be a Texan in the 21st century.
Supporting Local Artists and Engaging the Community
The MFAH is not just a platform for showcasing these works but also plays an integral role in supporting local artists and engaging the broader Houston community. The museum will host a series of artist talks and panel discussions in conjunction with the exhibition, encouraging dialogue on issues like racial justice, cultural preservation, and the role of art in shaping public perception.
“We want people to understand that art is not just about aesthetics,” said Gary Tinterow, the museum’s director. “Art challenges us to think critically about our surroundings, our histories, and our identities. And there’s no better place to explore these themes than in Texas, where culture and identity are constantly evolving.”
Additionally, the MFAH has partnered with local schools and community organizations to provide free educational programming aimed at engaging younger generations in the creative process. The museum’s outreach initiatives are designed to provide underserved youth in Houston with access to art education and inspiration, hoping to spark a new wave of local artists who will continue to carry the torch of Texas’ rich cultural legacy.
The Broader Impact of the Exhibit
The “Texas Through the Lens” exhibit is more than just a snapshot of the state’s artistic community; it’s a reflection of the ongoing conversations about what it means to be Texan. As Texas’ population continues to grow, so does its diversity, and this exhibit embodies the voices of the state’s many communities.
“The exhibition creates an inclusive space for all Texans, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background,” says Alicia Vera, a Houston-based educator. “It forces us to confront the difficult questions about who we are as a state and how we embrace our shared history.”
As part of the exhibit, the MFAH will also host a series of workshops that dive deeper into these themes, providing tools for artists and audiences to engage with their surroundings and histories in new ways.
In addition to the artistic exhibitions, the MFAH is planning a Texas-wide traveling component, bringing this art to cities across the state, including Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin. The museum’s aim is to make the exhibition accessible to Texans everywhere, highlighting the cultural richness that unites them.
The exhibition runs until September 2025 and is expected to be a major cultural event in the Houston arts calendar, bringing together residents from all parts of Texas to reflect, engage, and celebrate their shared identity.
