My headline should actually say “Gems” as there are two here in east Dallas. The first is historic building itself; the second is the art it displays on a rotating basis.
For those interested in Art Deco, a visit here is essential. The Bath House Cultural Center, officially recognized as Dallas Landmark, is the first Deco building in the state of Texas. Built in 1930, the staff is already gearing up for a 100th anniversary celebration by collecting personal recollections from people who have been here in past decades.
The building is situated on an elevation affording a beautiful view of White Rock Lake, with the towers of downtown Dallas visible in the distance. Set in White Rock Lake Park, the cultural center is in a tranquil setting, with the only noise coming from birds that enjoy perching on the logs in the water.
Three art exhibits are on display until August 9. My lead photo is “From Fragments to Form”, with 3D art by 16 artists from Dallas-Forth Worth and Waco area. My lead photo is from this exhibit: Panthera Ona, by Terri Wilder. Like most pieces on display, it employs mixed media; in this case stoneware, slip, glaze, plywood, paint wire and raffia.
An especially beautiful piece is New Beginnings by Rita Barnard. Anyone who has visited the Everglades in Florida will be familiar with cypress knees. Here she has collected several of them, and topped them with crystals.
A second room is devoted to the impressive photographic art of James Flowers, a Bachelor of Fine Arts graduate of the University of North Texas who currently works in Denton. Many of his works incorporate astronomical themes that explore the connection between humanity and the universe (photo below). The quote on the information card on offer is not exaggerating when it states “James transforms everyday remnants into poetic tableaux that evoke a sense of mystery, inviting viewers into a compelling space of emotion and contemplation.”
A third room contain the creations of Canadian-born Jane Cornish Smith. Twenty-two of her works are on display. “The exhibition incorporates trash collected largely from White Rock Lake during monthly volunteer cleanups.” The aim of the artist is to raise awareness “about the importance of lake health, beauty and safety.” Certainly is more attention was paid in classrooms to environmental responsibility, and less to how far someone can throw a football, the state of Texas would be a better place for everyone. As someone I knew once said, only trash throws trash outside.
Almost all the art on exhibit is for sale. Panthera Ona is $1200; New Beginnings is $800. The photo art by Flowers are $500 each. The works by Smith range from $400 to $975.
I highly recommend a visit to support these artists, and the Cultural Center.
The Bath House Cultural Center website is https://bathhouse.dallasculture.org/
Location: 521 E. Lawther Dr., Dallas
Photos by C. Cunningham